Best Charleston to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,358 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Charleston to Los Angeles moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.45 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | 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 | 7.70 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,358 miles from Charleston, WV to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $3,786 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Los Angeles move is roughly $9,146. 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 | $2,539 | 300 ft³ | 8.46 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,786 | 450 ft³ | 8.41 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,273 | 750 ft³ | 8.36 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,146 | 1100 ft³ | 8.31 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,223 | 1600 ft³ | 8.26 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,786 | 1800 ft³ | 8.21 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
If you're considering a move from Charleston, WV, to a much larger city like Los Angeles, CA, using your existing knowledge of local communities can be incredibly helpful. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at popular local neighborhoods, providing you with the comparison between Charleston, WV & Los Angeles, CA to ease your transition.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Kanawha City | Silver Lake | Eclectic vibe, independent stores |
| East End | Echo Park | Artistic community, historic homes |
| South Hills | Beverly Hills | Upscale area, luxurious homes |
| Downtown Charleston | Downtown LA | Business hub, cultural landmarks |
| Edgewood | Los Feliz | Family friendly, community parks |
| Woodlands | Pacific Palisades | Scenic views, outdoor activities |
| South Ruffner | Santa Monica | Suburban feel, beach access |
| Capitol Market Area | Mid-City LA | Diverse foods, local markets |
| Fort Hill | Hollywood Hills | Elevated views, celebrity homes |
| North Charleston | West Hollywood | Vibrant nightlife, trendy |
As you transition from Charleston to Los Angeles, you might find Kanawha City's eclectic charm reminiscent of Silver Lake, where you’ll enjoy the presence of independent stores and a dynamic local art scene. If you love strolling the historic streets of East End, you might appreciate Echo Park's similarly rich blend of history and creativity. Explore the boutiques and cafes along its avenues, or enjoy an afternoon by the Echo Park Lake. Moving to a more upscale neighborhood like South Hills? Beverly Hills offers an unparalleled blend of opulence and luxury, with iconic shopping experiences available on Rodeo Drive. For those who love the community feel of Edgewood, Los Feliz offers numerous family-friendly options, charming parks like the Griffith Park, and an engaging local vibe.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Los Angeles
Moving from Charleston, WV to Los Angeles, CA offers a chance to explore new opportunities and experiences. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation from Charleston, WV to Los Angeles, CA to help you make an informed decision.
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Harsh winter weather
- Limited nightlife
- Less cultural diversity
Los Angeles, CA- Diverse job opportunities
- Mild climate
- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural diversity
Los Angeles, CA- Higher cost of living
- Spread-out neighborhoods
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Urban sprawl
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Less traffic congestion
- Easy access to nature
Charleston offers a comfortable cost of living, but Los Angeles presents a higher cost paired with its numerous opportunities. You may find the close-knit community of Charleston comforting, but LA's diverse neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Santa Monica offer vibrant social scenes and eclectic restaurants such as Gjelina. While Charleston has easy access to nature with parks like Coonskin Park, Los Angeles boasts expansive green spaces, albeit amidst urban sprawl, with places like Griffith Park as a large outdoor retreat within the city. Despite LA's traffic, using public transit or biking paths can help explore sights like the Hollywood Sign without the congestion woes.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and influences what it's like to live in a new area. To help you get acquainted with the food scene as you move, we'll compare the local cuisine between Charleston, WV & Los Angeles, CA . This guide will give you a taste of what each city offers, from iconic dishes to restaurant hot spots.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | Fish Taco |
| Most popular meat dish | Chicken Fried Steak | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Veggie Plate | Vegan Burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Los Angeles, the food scene bursts with diverse cuisine, particularly in trendy neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Venice. Tacos reign supreme, reflecting the city's rich Mexican heritage, and can be explored through numerous food trucks circling the area. L.A.'s vegan scene is also thriving, with spots like Plant Food + Wine offering gourmet plant-based dishes. While Charleston boasts soul-warming comfort food, such as the iconic Pepperoni Roll, L.A.'s emphasis leans towards health and innovation, seen in the variety of Korean BBQ options and high ratings for fitness and health consciousness. This vibrant, eclectic mix makes L.A. a food lover's paradise.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Food is important for making an area home. This restaurant comparison will help someone moving from Charleston, WV to Los Angeles, CA find their new favorite eateries by using their current hometown as a guide.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Graziano's Pizza | Pizzeria Mozza | Beloved for its authentic Italian flavors and artisanal approach. |
| Bluegrass Kitchen | Sqirl | Known for creative brunch dishes and dedication to local ingredients. |
| Fazio's | Bestia | Offers a mix of traditional and modern Italian cuisine. |
| Tidewater Grill | The Hungry Cat | Renowned for its fresh seafood and coastal vibes. |
| Brawl's Bistro | Republique | Both are celebrated for their mix of classic and contemporary American bistro fare. |
| Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Guelaguetza | Delivers rich flavors and a lively setting perfect for a night out. |
| Capitol Market | Grand Central Market | An eclectic gastronomic hub showcasing diverse food stalls. |
| Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill | Bludso's BBQ | Famous for its tender, smoky barbecue dishes. |
| Laury's Restaurant | Providence | Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on exceptional seafood. |
| Soho's | Osteria Mozza | Revered for its Italian delicacies and elegant atmosphere. |
For those who adore Charleston's Graziano's Pizza, discovering Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles will be a treat, offering a similar passion for Italian craftsmanship in every slice. Tidewater Grill fans will feel at home at The Hungry Cat, where fresh catches and a laid-back coastal vibe define the dining experience. If you've frequented Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill, Bludso's BBQ delivers that same smoky satisfaction with a Los Angeles twist. Whether you're continuing a love for BBQ or discovering a new favorite Italian spot, Los Angeles offers a culinary landscape that will seamlessly align with your food journey from Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston and Los Angeles compare to make informed decisions about your new home.
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listings | Spacious yards | City views |
When moving from Charleston to Los Angeles, one of the most striking differences you'll notice is the cost of housing. While Charleston offers more affordable options with its median home price being significantly lower, Los Angeles boasts of its vibrant urban lifestyle and greater walkability, appealing to those who enjoy a more bustling city environment. The architecture also reflects the cities’ histories—with Charleston showcasing charming colonial homes and Los Angeles favoring the unique Spanish Revival style. Additionally, if being close to amenities is important, LA’s higher walkability score indicates easy access to local establishments, such as The Last Bookstore, which enriches the urban living experience.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Charleston, WV to Los Angeles, CA , understanding the weather differences is crucial. This knowledge can help you prepare for the contrasts in climate , adjust your wardrobe, and plan activities better.
Charleston, WV
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Unhealthy at times |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 168 days | 284 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving to Los Angeles means you'll enjoy significantly more sunny days compared to Charleston, which can enhance your mood and allow for more outdoor activities year-round. However, the lack of snowfall and reduced rainfall might be an adjustment if you love winter sports or rain. It's also vital to be prepared for common natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires in Los Angeles, a stark difference from the floods and tornadoes in Charleston. Additionally, the air quality in Los Angeles can be challenging at times, especially if you have respiratory sensitivities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Los Angeles
If you're planning a move from Charleston, WV to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living impacts you financially. Comprehending the variations in money-related aspects between Charleston and Los Angeles can better prepare you for the transition.
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 45,000 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.59% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 9.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Government, Energy | Entertainment, Technology, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Relocating from Charleston to Los Angeles involves dealing with a significant jump in the cost of living index, almost doubling in comparison. While Charleston's economy leans towards healthcare, government, and energy sectors, transitioning to Los Angeles will place you amid entertainment, technology, and tourism hubs. The higher average household income in Los Angeles might seem appealing, yet it's counterbalanced by its daunting state income and sales taxes. You might also experience the affluent lifestyle Los Angeles offers, which often juxtaposes against its pronounced levels of homelessness and poverty.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Charleston and Los Angeles . Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the cultural transition you might encounter when moving.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican’s usually dominate local governance | Democrat-dominated council |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Religious diversity with significant Catholic and Jewish communities |
As you transition from Charleston to Los Angeles, you'll find significant differences in the political and religious landscape. While Charleston, known for its moderately conservative political makeup, sees a Republican dominance in local governance, Los Angeles displays a stark contrast with its liberal orientation and a Democrat-controlled city council. Regarding religion, Charleston is predominantly Christian, while Los Angeles offers a more diverse religious tapestry, including substantial Catholic and Jewish communities. Embrace the opportunity to engage with a variety of cultural and political viewpoints, enhancing your experience in your new city.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in transportation dynamics between your origin and destination can ease your transition. This section provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Los Angeles , helping you anticipate and adapt to the challenges of driving and commuting in a new city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 45 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Moving from Charleston to Los Angeles means adjusting to significantly longer commute times, often due to heavy traffic congestion in Los Angeles. While Charleston's manageable traffic might have been a breeze, Los Angeles is notorious for its bumper-to-bumper stretches. Fortunately, Los Angeles offers extensive public transit systems, such as buses and metro lines, which are a viable alternative to driving. This contrasts with Charleston, where public transportation options are more limited, making a car almost a necessity for daily commutes. As you settle in Los Angeles, exploring the public transit options can greatly enhance your commuting experience and offer you a break from driving in heavy traffic.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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