Best Charleston to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,559 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 12 Charleston to Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Oakland. 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 Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | 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 Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,559 miles from Charleston, WV to Oakland, CA will cost on average $3,957 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Oakland move is roughly $9,564. 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 | $2,653 | 300 ft³ | 8.84 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,957 | 450 ft³ | 8.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,558 | 750 ft³ | 8.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,564 | 1100 ft³ | 8.69 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,831 | 1600 ft³ | 8.64 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,470 | 1800 ft³ | 8.59 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (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. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
To help you transition from the familiar sights of Charleston, WV to the vibrant energy of Oakland, CA, this guide aims to provide a neighborhood comparison. Charleston, WV & Oakland, CA , we're here to help you find your new favorite spot in an unknown city by drawing parallels between the most popular areas.
| Charleston | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | Temescal | Vibrant arts scene |
| South Hills | Montclair | Quiet, residential |
| Kanawha City | Piedmont Avenue | Shopping & dining |
| West Side | West Oakland | Reemerging community |
| Edgewood | Rockridge | Family-friendly vibe |
| North Charleston | Berkeley | College-town atmosphere |
| Fort Hill | Grand Lake | Near lake, active spot |
| Elk City | Fruitvale | Eclectic blend of cultures |
| South Park | Jack London Square | Waterfront activities |
| Fort Hill | Grand Lake | Near lake, active spot |
If you've enjoyed the vibrant arts scene in Charleston's East End, you'll feel right at home in Oakland's Temescal, known for its thriving creative community and unique cafes like 511 Outer Circle. Montclair offers the quiet residential feel akin to Charleston's South Hills, with popular spots like the Quarryhill Botanical Garden providing serene escapes. For those who love the shopping and dining of Kanawha City, Oakland's Piedmont Avenue provides a similar charm with its eclectic mix of eateries and shops like the Fenton's Creamery. Rockridge, much like Charleston's Edgewood, is known for its family-friendly vibe, with a lively community atmosphere and the popular Market Hall offering fresh, local products.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Oakland
Embarking on the journey from Charleston, WV, to Oakland, CA, requires an understanding of the pros and cons that characterize each city. These charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad associated with the relocation, helping you make an informed decision in your move from Charleston to Oakland.
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Fewer cultural events
- Harsh winters
- Lower salary potential
Oakland, CA- Thriving tech industry
- Vibrant art scene
- Mild climate
- Higher income opportunities
Oakland, CA- High cost of living
- Busy urban lifestyle
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Noisy surroundings
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Less traffic
- Quieter environment
The move from Charleston to Oakland offers an opportunity to experience a bustling environment filled with dynamic changes. While Oakland boasts renowned neighborhoods like Rockridge and Jack London Square, rife with trendy restaurants and vibrant nightlife, the shift comes with its challenges. The mild climate in Oakland may be a pleasant change from Charleston's intense winters, yet adapting to the high cost of living and busy urban lifestyle presents its own obstacles. To explore nature, you can visit Redwood Regional Park, a stark contrast to the quieter, scenic surroundings of Charleston. Embracing these differences can lead to a rewarding experience as you immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry that defines Oakland.
Charleston vs. Oakland Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and a crucial aspect of experiencing life in a new area. In this guide, we're offering a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston, WV & Oakland, CA so that you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Charleston | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot dog with sauce | Sourdough bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Chicken fried steak | BBQ ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Slaw dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Black bean burger | Vegan sushi |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you make your way to Oakland, you'll discover a dynamic and diverse food scene that resonates with the city's cultural diversity. In the vibrant neighborhoods like Uptown and Jack London Square, you can find the much-acclaimed BBQ ribs or venture into hip areas for exotic street food like gourmet tacos. With a strong focus on health and fitness, Oakland commands a rich food truck culture especially in the bustling Downtown area, offering an array of vegan-friendly options. Charleston, by contrast, offers the comforting taste of slaw dogs in its down-home eateries, providing a homely culinary feel.
Charleston vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite eateries can be challenging when moving from one city to another. As you transition from Charleston, WV to Oakland, CA , this restaurant comparison will guide you in discovering dining spots that feel like home, ensuring you an exciting culinary journey.
| Charleston | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bluegrass Kitchen | Brown Sugar Kitchen | A taste of upscale comfort similar to Bluegrass's southern charm |
| Tidewater Grill | Scott's Seafood | Renowned seafood offerings that echo Tidewater's coastal flavors |
| Bridge Road Bistro | Chop Bar | A bistro-style eatery with a neighborhood vibe, similar to Bridge Road |
| Pies & Pints | The Star on Grand | Offers gourmet pizza in a laid-back atmosphere, much like Pies & Pints |
| Laury's Restaurant | Bellanico | An elegant dining experience with a focus on fine ingredients, akin to Laury's |
| Black Sheep Burritos | Comal Next Door | Known for vibrant burrito creations, reminiscent of Black Sheep |
| Sokolata | Chocolatier Blue | Sweets and treats that are akin to Sokolata's delightful offerings |
| Sushi Garden | Geta | A small spot with authentic sushi experience reflecting Sushi Garden's style |
| South Hills Market & Cafe | Oakland's Boot & Shoe Service | A brunch favorite with a bakery touch akin to South Hills |
| Dem 2 Brothers And A Grill | Everett and Jones BBQ | Captures the essence of local barbecue much like Dem 2 Brothers |
The culinary scenery in Oakland is sure to evoke a comforting sense of familiarity as you explore new favorites. If you loved the rich, welcoming plates at Bluegrass Kitchen in Charleston, then Brown Sugar Kitchen will offer you a similar essence of upscale comfort foods with a local twist. For seafood aficionados, Tidewater Grill's oceanic flavors find their match at Scott's Seafood, where the urban waterfront setting is just as alluring. Should a relaxed pizza night be what you crave, head to The Star on Grand for craft pizza that echoes the flavors and atmospheres of Pies & Pints. Each restaurant offers a taste of Charleston's culinary highlights transported into the heart of Oakland, laying a foundation for fond new dining memories.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston, WV and Oakland, CA compare in terms of housing costs , architecture , and lifestyle . This comparison will help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Charleston | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Front porch, backyard | Open floor plan, garage |
When comparing Charleston and Oakland, significant differences emerge in home prices and lifestyle. In Charleston, you might find homes with charming Colonial architecture and features like front porches, ideal for those who appreciate traditional designs. Oakland, on the other hand, offers a dynamic urban lifestyle, significantly higher home prices, but also higher walkability, making it a vibrant choice for those who favor an active city life. While Charleston presents a more affordable living option, Oakland's blend of cultural diversity and amenities such as the Oakland Museum adds unique value to its real estate offerings.
Charleston vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Charleston, WV to Oakland, CA , it's crucial to understand the weather you'll encounter in your new city. Weather impacts daily activities, wardrobe choices, and overall lifestyle, so knowing how it compares to what you’re used to in Charleston will help you prepare for the transition.
Charleston, WV
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy |
| Natural Disasters | Floods | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Adjusting to Oakland's milder temperatures may be a relief if you're used to Charleston's humid summers and chilly winters. You'll enjoy more sunny days in Oakland, which can lift your spirits and allow for more outdoor activities year-round. However, Oakland's air quality can sometimes be poorer due to its urban environment and industry-related factors. Additionally, the threat of earthquakes is something you'll have to consider as part of your new reality, contrasting with the flood risks prevalent in Charleston. These differences in climate and environmental challenges will be important to prepare for as you transition to life in Oakland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Oakland
When relocating from Charleston, WV to Oakland, CA, it's crucial to understand the cost of living differences. This comparison highlights money and finance elements to help you prepare for the financial landscape in each city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 45,000 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5 | 0.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 9.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Chemicals, Energy, Health Care | Tech, Finance, Health Care |
| Affluence | Modest | Affluent |
| Poverty | Apparent | Challenging |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Significant |
Moving from Charleston to Oakland presents a significant change in the economic environment you'll experience. For one, the average household income in Oakland is notably higher, reflecting the affluent nature and vibrant economic ecosystem, particularly in industries like tech and finance. However, this is balanced by a considerably higher cost of living index, meaning everyday expenses and housing are much more costly. Moreover, state income tax in California is almost double, impacting your net income. Lastly, while Charleston's poverty and homelessness rates are moderate, Oakland faces more challenges in these areas, something to consider if you're planning on community involvement.
Charleston vs. Oakland 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 in both cities. This analysis will give you a better understanding of the politics between Charleston & Oakland to help you navigate your new community.
| Charleston | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Conservative | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican Majority | Democratic Majority |
| Religion | Mainly Christian | Diverse (Christian, Secular, etc.) |
Moving from Charleston to Oakland means immersing yourself in a notably different political landscape. Charleston's community predominantly leans conservative with local politics often reflecting Republican views. On the other hand, Oakland is well-known for its liberal stance, aligning with Democratic values. Religion also presents varied landscapes; while Charleston is primarily Christian, Oakland offers a more diverse spectrum. You'll find a variety of congregations and secular communities to join, enhancing your understanding of the area's rich cultural tapestry.
Charleston vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in a new city can significantly ease your transition from one place to another. This guide will provide a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Oakland to better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like.
| Comparison | Charleston | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 33 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
When considering a move from Charleston to Oakland, you’ll notice a significant shift in how you might navigate each city. Charleston's shorter average commute time reflects its lower traffic congestion. While the public transit system in Charleston offers basic services with a score of 4 out of 10, you will find that Oakland has more robust options, scoring a 9 in public transit availability. In Oakland, numerous BART stations, buses, and bike lanes provide ample connectivity, allowing you to get around without relying on a car. On the other hand, Charleston's public transit decisions often make having a personal vehicle quite essential for convenient day-to-day commuting.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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