Best Charleston to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,374 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Charleston to Irvine moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Irvine. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Charleston to Irvine Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Trek Movers | 9.20 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.71 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Irvine
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,374 miles from Charleston, WV to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,800 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Irvine move is roughly $9,179. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,548 | 300 ft³ | 8.49 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,800 | 450 ft³ | 8.44 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,296 | 750 ft³ | 8.39 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,179 | 1100 ft³ | 8.34 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,271 | 1600 ft³ | 8.29 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,840 | 1800 ft³ | 8.24 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Irvine Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
Ready Set Movers
454 Deanna Ln
Charleston, SC, 29492
About Ready Set Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Ready Set Movers provides relocation services for both local and long-distance moves. Since...
Services
- Local and interstate moves
- Full-service moving
- Accurate and detailed estimates
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
Two Men and a Truck
2410 Air Park Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29406
About Two Men and a Truck
Since 1997, Two Men and a Truck has been the go-to moving company for families and businesses in North Charleston, SC....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3402685 / 1095537 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Charleston vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
To help you get acquainted with your new surroundings, we'll draw a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Irvine, CA . By using neighborhoods you already know as a reference, we aim to make your transition smoother and more exciting.
| Charleston | Irvine | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Hills | Northwood | Family-friendly vibe, good schools |
| East End | Woodbridge | Historic charm, vibrant culture |
| Kanawha City | Oak Creek | Shopping and dining options |
| Edgewood | University Park | Proximity to nature trails |
| West Side | El Camino Real | Diverse community, urban amenities |
| Elk City | Cypress Village | Emerging arts scene |
| Fort Hill | Quail Hill | Scenic views, affluent community |
| Cross Lanes | Portola Springs | Suburban living, open spaces |
| Sissonville | Stonegate | Rural feel, tight-knit community |
| Charleston Heights | Turtle Rock | Mix of green space and residential |
South Hills in Charleston offers a welcoming family atmosphere with its community parks and well-regarded schools. In Irvine, Northwood mirrors this vibe, offering top-notch education options and family-friendly activities. If you enjoy the historic allure of East End, with streets lined with vintage homes and unique shops, Woodbridge in Irvine might be to your liking. It possesses a similar atmosphere, blending history with contemporary living. Kanawha City provides a plethora of shopping and dining venues, akin to Oak Creek's bustling commercial centers enlivened with local eateries. In lush Edgewood, where hiking trails beckon, you will find a counterpart in University Park, offering scenic paths through natural beauty complemented by its academic environment. For those coming from Elk City, with its burgeoning arts scene, the vibrant cultural events and galleries of Cypress Village will echo a familiar artistic vibe.
Things to Do in Irvine
Hike at Irvine Regional Park- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Irvine
Making the decision to relocate involves weighing both the pros and cons . This guide presents an honest assessment of the contrasting lifestyles between Charleston, WV and Irvine, CA , providing you with a clear understanding of what to expect in your new home.
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Frequent rain
- Less diverse culture
- High humidity
- Slower pace of life
Irvine, CA- Robust job opportunities
- Sunny weather
- Cultural diversity
- Comfortable climate
- Dynamic lifestyle
Irvine, CA- Higher cost of living
- Urban sprawl
- Heavy traffic
- Fewer historical landmarks
- Limited green spaces
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Less traffic congestion
- Quaint historical sites
- Easy access to nature
Charleston offers a charming small-town vibe with a close-knit community and fascinating historical sites like the State Capitol. However, the frequent rains and slower pace might not be for everyone. Moving to Irvine, you'll find a remarkable shift in lifestyle with a dynamic environment and diverse culture, as reflected in places like the bustling Irvine Spectrum Center. With sunny weather almost year-round, you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor adventures, although you'll also face higher living costs and urban sprawl. The vibrant city life includes numerous amenities like Orange County Great Park and diverse dining options at the Irvine Bowl.
Charleston vs. Irvine Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and offers a unique glimpse into what life is like in a particular area. By exploring the local cuisine between Charleston, WV, and Irvine, CA, you can better prepare for the flavors and dining experiences that await you in your new hometown.
| Charleston | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | West Virginia Pepperoni Roll | In-N-Out Burger |
| Most popular meat dish | Country Ham | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog with Chili | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Vegetable Plate | Açaí Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Charleston offers comfort in its West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls, found in local haunts like Swiftwater Café, Irvine provides a more adventurous palate with delicacies such as Korean BBQ available across the city. If you're a vegan enthusiast, Irvine is more accommodating with a higher range of plant-based options, like the popular Açaí Bowls found in communities such as Irvine Spectrum Center. Dive into the local flavors by exploring iconic eateries like North Italia in Irvine for an authentic taste of what the region has to offer. Adjust your expectations from Charleston's charming simplicity to Irvine's diverse, health-conscious food scene, providing both traditional and contemporary dishes that showcase Southern California's culinary vibrance.
Charleston vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
When moving from one city to another, discovering new culinary favorites plays a key role in feeling at home. This guide helps you transition from the flavors of Charleston, WV to the delectable offerings in Irvine, CA. Use this restaurant comparison to find your new go-to spots by leveraging your experiences in Charleston and exploring similar delights in Irvine .
| Charleston | Irvine | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bluegrass Kitchen | The Ranch Restaurant | Farm-to-table dining similar to Bluegrass Kitchen's ethos |
| Pies & Pints | 20/20 Craft Pizza | A haven for pizza and beer aficionados |
| Soho's | Cucina Enoteca | Both offer Italian-inspired cuisine with a chic ambiance |
| Bridge Road Bistro | North Italia | Elevated dining experience with regional Italian dishes |
| Laury's Restaurant | Marché Moderne | Fine dining French cuisine that matches Laurys' sophistication |
| Tricky Fish | California Fish Grill | Fresh seafood with a casual dining vibe |
| Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Taco Rosa | Craft tacos and brews in a hip atmosphere |
| Phở Vinh Long | BRODARD Restaurant | Vietnamese cuisine with a celebrated Phở offering |
| Tidewater Grill | Water Grill | Upscale seafood offerings reminiscent of Tidewater's menu |
| Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille | Yard House | A vibrant sports bar scene with a diverse menu and draft selection |
For those who cherish fresh, farm-to-table cuisine, venturing to The Ranch Restaurant in Irvine offers an experience akin to the beloved Bluegrass Kitchen, spotlighting sustainability and local ingredients. If Italian fare piques your interest, Cucina Enoteca presents a classy yet comfortable setting that recalls the vibe of Charleston's Soho's. Pizza enthusiasts will find comfort in 20/20 Craft Pizza, which echoes the laid-back charm and craft beer selection of Charleston's famed Pies & Pints. The transition to your new home in Irvine promises not just similar tastes but also fresh culinary adventures to savor.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston, WV compares to Irvine, CA to make informed decisions about your relocation. This comparison will highlight key differences in housing aspects, from costs to lifestyle indices.
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Big Front Porches | Proximity to Irvine Spectrum Center |
While moving from Charleston to Irvine, you'll notice a significant disparity in housing costs. Irvine's median home prices and rent are substantially higher, reflective of its modern architecture and thriving urban lifestyle. Unlike Charleston, where Victorian homes with big front porches are charming staples, Irvine's real estate often boasts proximity to vibrant centers like the Irvine Spectrum Center. Additionally, Irvine offers a more walkable and bike-friendly environment, enhancing the urban experience that it promises.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Charleston vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, WV to Irvine, CA , it's crucial to understand how the weather will compare to what you're used to. This knowledge helps in preparing for everyday life, from dressing appropriately to managing expectations for outdoor activities. The following information outlines the significant weather differences between these two locations.
Charleston, WV
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, storms | Earthquakes, wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charleston to Irvine, you'll experience a notable increase in sunny days—about 105 more days each year. While Charleston’s climate features chilly winters with occasional snowfall, Irvine offers milder temperatures and rarely sees snow, making outdoor activities possible year-round. Although Charleston deals primarily with floods and storms, Irvine's main natural disaster risks come from earthquakes and wildfires. Additionally, while humidity is more prevalent in Charleston, Irvine’s lower humidity levels could lead to a more comfortable climate for those sensitive to moisture.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Irvine
If you're considering a move from Charleston, WV to Irvine, CA , understanding key financial differences is crucial. This chart compares various economic factors to help you anticipate changes in the cost of living and make informed decisions.
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $48,000 | $105,774 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.79% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Retail | Technology, Education, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Minimal |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Visible |
Relocating from Charleston to Irvine means adjusting to a significantly higher cost of living. While Charleston presents a more moderate economic landscape, Irvine is characterized by affluence and a robust economy dominated by technology and finance sectors. Expect the state income tax to more than double, which can impact your net income. Moreover, while both regions have noticeable issues such as homelessness, Irvine offers more economic opportunities due to its high household income and prominent industry presence.
Charleston vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Irvine , offering insights into the potential cultural differences you may encounter when moving from one city to the other.
| Charleston | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Majority Conservative | Majority Liberal |
| Local Politics | Charleston City Hall leans Republican | Irvine City Council known for progressive policies |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse religious communities |
Moving from Charleston to Irvine involves more than a change in scenery; you're also transitioning into a new socio-political environment. Charleston, steeped in traditionalism, is largely conservative, influencing both policy decisions and community values. In contrast, Irvine is noted for its progressive political climate, encouraging policies that reflect its liberal majority. This liberal edge is evident in its diverse religious landscape, with numerous communities practicing a variety of faiths. Engaging with these contrasting environments can offer you new perspectives and experiences in both cities.
Charleston vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Charleston, WV and Irvine, CA can help you better anticipate and plan for your daily commute. Whether you're dealing with traffic congestion or evaluating public transit availability, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, but not ideal | Yes |
While commuting in Charleston typically involves less traffic congestion, with an average congestion score of 3 out of 10, the same cannot be said for Irvine, where higher traffic volumes reflect a congestion score of 6. In Charleston, you might find that a car is convenient but not strictly necessary, thanks to moderate public transit options rated 5 out of 10. However, in Irvine, a robust public transport network and bike-friendly infrastructure make it quite feasible to live without a car. Moreover, the slightly longer average commute times in Irvine could be balanced by enjoying amenities such as shopping and dining at places like the sprawling Irvine Spectrum Center during your public transit rides.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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