Best Charleston to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,399 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Charleston to San Diego 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 The Rock 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 San Diego. 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 San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For 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 | 7.71 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,399 miles from Charleston, WV to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,821 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to San Diego move is roughly $9,231. 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 | $2,563 | 300 ft³ | 8.54 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,821 | 450 ft³ | 8.49 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,331 | 750 ft³ | 8.44 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,231 | 1100 ft³ | 8.39 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,347 | 1600 ft³ | 8.34 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,925 | 1800 ft³ | 8.29 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
If you're moving from one city to another, it can be daunting to find a place that feels like home. By comparing local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & San Diego, CA , you can better understand your new city's charm through familiar elements.
| Charleston | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | Hillcrest | Vibrant, artsy vibe with diverse dining |
| South Hills | La Jolla | Upscale living and stunning views |
| Kanawha City | North Park | Eclectic mix of retail and dining |
| Downtown | Gaslamp Quarter | Bustling entertainment and nightlife |
| South Charleston | Encinitas | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Elk City | Ocean Beach | Bohemian, artistic community |
| North Charleston | Carlsbad | Suburban charm and beach proximity |
| Edgewood | Little Italy | Welcoming neighborhood with great cuisine |
| Fort Hill | Point Loma | Historic ambiance and coastal views |
| West Side | Pacifica | Working-class neighborhood with ocean access |
As you explore San Diego, you'll find that places like Hillcrest, with its vibrant arts scene and diverse dining options, resemble Charleston's East End. If you're accustomed to the upscale ambiance of South Hills, you'll appreciate La Jolla with its picturesque ocean views and high-end shopping. Similarly, San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter offers a lively atmosphere full of restaurants and entertainment that mirrors the hustle and bustle of Downtown Charleston. For those who enjoy the bohemian aura of Elk City, Ocean Beach will feel like a perfect match with its laid-back, artistic community vibes. Whether you're visiting parks, exploring local eateries, or simply enjoying the neighborhood atmosphere, these areas bridge the comforting familiarity of Charleston with the new excitement of San Diego.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to San Diego
Considering a move from Charleston, WV, to San Diego, CA, involves an honest assessment of the pros and cons. This comparison helps you to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of living in Charleston, and how they stack up to moving to San Diego . Making an informed choice ensures you're prepared for this exciting new chapter.
Charleston, WV- Limited job opportunities
- Cold winters
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer cultural events
- Smaller airport
San Diego, CA- Thriving job market
- Mild year-round climate
- Vibrant nightlife scene
- Rich cultural experiences
- Major international airport
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- Can feel crowded
- Less greenery in city
- Fast-paced atmosphere
- Heavier traffic
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Scenic nature spots
- Quieter lifestyle
- Less traffic congestion
Moving from Charleston to San Diego promises a range of new experiences. High energy and diversity characterize San Diego's neighborhoods like Gaslamp Quarter and La Jolla, providing rich avenues for nightlife and cultural events not found in Charleston. The yearly average temperature in San Diego is comfortably mild, contrary to the cold winters in Charleston that can restrict outdoor activities. While the cost of living is higher in San Diego, the bustling job market offers ample professional growth, offsetting the increased expenses. Additionally, while Charleston offers quiet nature spots like Carnifex Ferry, San Diego's proximity to both urban attractions and places like Balboa Park offers the best of both worlds, all nestled under sunny skies.
Charleston vs. San Diego Food Guide
Exploring local cuisine provides a flavorful insight into the culture and lifestyle of any area. If you're moving, understanding these culinary landscapes is crucial. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & San Diego to help you acclimate to the food scene of your new home.
| Charleston | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Country Ham | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Shrimp Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Chili | Acai Bowl |
| 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 San Diego, you’ll find the food scene surprisingly dynamic and diverse. While exploring neighborhoods like La Jolla and Little Italy, you can indulge in iconic dishes such as fish tacos and carne asada at eateries like George’s at the Cove. If you’re vegan or health-conscious, you'll be delighted with options like acai bowls, prevalent across many health-focused spots. The abundance of food trucks in areas such as North Park will offer you a tasting tour on wheels, showcasing the city's food innovation. From scenic coastal dining to bustling urban neighborhoods, San Diego provides an extensive culinary map perfect for new adventures.
Charleston vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city often means searching for new favorite places to eat. Food plays a crucial role in making an area feel like home. This comparison of restaurants between Charleston, WV and San Diego will help guide you to find eateries that match your taste using familiar spots as your starting point.
| Charleston | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| 1010 Bridge Restaurant and Catering | George's at the Cove | Offers exquisite coastal cuisine with a focus on artistic presentation. |
| Bluegrass Kitchen | The Patio on Goldfinch | Features farm-to-table dishes with a relaxed atmosphere. |
| Pies & Pints | Blind Lady Ale House | Known for craft beer and pizza pairings, similar to the rustic ambiance of Pies & Pints. |
| Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Hodad's | Offers hearty burgers in a vibrant setting, much like the signature vibe of Black Sheep. |
| Vandalia Co. Taphouse | Hamilton’s Tavern | Celebrates craft beer with a diverse selection in a cozy tavern atmosphere. |
| The Block | Carnitas' Snack Shack | Offers delicious, laid-back bites with an emphasis on pork, akin to The Block's meaty offerings. |
| Swiftwater Café | Urban Solace | Known for homestyle comfort food with a modern twist. |
| Bricks & Barrels | Born & Raised | A steakhouse offering a refined dining experience similar to Bricks & Barrels. |
| Soho’s | Bencotto Italian Kitchen | Known for authentic Italian dishes in an elegant setting. |
| Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille | Raglan Public House | Combines hearty meals with sports bar energy. |
Diving into San Diego’s vibrant culinary scene, you'll encounter places like Blind Lady Ale House, renowned for its rustic charm and variety of craft beer, mirroring the essence of Charleston’s Pies & Pints. For those craving robust, savory eats, Hodad's stands out with its iconic burgers matching the lively spirit found at Black Sheep Burrito & Brews. As you explore local flavors, visiting Urban Solace will immerse you in comforting yet innovative dishes, akin to Swiftwater Café’s appeal. Each stop offers a bridge of familiarity with a delectable twist that is sure to make you feel right at home in San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most significant factors to consider when planning a move. Understanding the housing differences between Charleston and San Diego is essential for making an informed decision regarding affordability, lifestyle, and community fit.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Colonial | Spanish and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, porches | Waterfront views, patios |
Moving from Charleston to San Diego can mean a significant increase in housing expenses, with both home prices and rents dramatically higher in San Diego. The architectural contrast is also notable; you'll find Victorian and Colonial styles in Charleston, while San Diego features Spanish and Modern influences. While Charleston offers charm and historic appeal with large yards and porches, San Diego provides vibrant urban living characterized by waterfront views and patios. The differences in walkability and bikeability also reflect their distinct urban landscapes. You might enjoy a more car-dependent environment in Charleston, but San Diego presents extensive opportunities for walking and biking, encouraging an active lifestyle. Consider exploring homes near the popular Balboa Park for a glimpse into San Diego's community life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Charleston vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When moving from one geographic location to another, such as from Charleston, WV to San Diego, CA , it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with the differences in weather . This understanding will help you prepare accordingly for the changes in climate and the lifestyle adjustments they may entail.
Charleston, WV
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, tornadoes | Earthquakes, wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In moving from Charleston to San Diego, you'll experience a marked increase in sunshine, with San Diego boasting over 260 bright days per year, compared to Charleston's 164. This abundance of sunshine contributes to a more consistently warm climate in San Diego, with mild winters and cooler summers than you might expect from other coastal areas. However, San Diego’s attractive weather does come with its own environmental challenges, such as the potential for earthquakes and wildfires, which differ from Charleston's floods and tornadoes. While Charleston experiences significant rainfall and snowfall, San Diego's dry climate results in minimal precipitation throughout the year.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to San Diego
If you're relocating from Charleston, WV to San Diego, CA , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living differs between the two cities. This comparison highlights key financial elements to help you make informed decisions about your move.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 45,000 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.59% | 0.73% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Government, Retail | Military, Tourism, Technology |
| Affluence | Modest | Prosperous |
| Poverty | Prevalent | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Limited | Significant |
Moving from Charleston to San Diego requires adjusting to a significantly higher cost of living, with San Diego nearly doubling Charleston's cost of living index. You'll find that the average household income is substantially higher in San Diego, paralleled by the demands of more prosperous industries like technology and tourism. Taxes are another important factor; California's state income tax rate is notably higher than that of West Virginia. Additionally, while San Diego offers greater affluence and opportunities, it's essential to be mindful of its more considerable homelessness situation, a factor that could influence your perspective and planning when relocating.
Charleston vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating involves more than just packing boxes; understanding the local culture is crucial. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between these two cities. Explore how Charleston & San Diego's politics contrast and how their religious beliefs align or diverge.
| Charleston | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | City Council structure | Diverse City Council |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Religiously diverse |
When moving from Charleston to San Diego, you'll notice a shift in political climates. Charleston typically leans conservative, which is reflected in its city council's policies. Meanwhile, San Diego's politics tend toward a more liberal landscape, supported by its diverse city council representing a range of views. In terms of religious demographics, Charleston predominantly practices Christianity, while San Diego enjoys great religious diversity, with significant communities of various faiths. This cultural blend offers residents a rich tapestry of perspectives and traditions, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Charleston vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Whether you're a newcomer or a longtime resident, understanding the commute and traffic dynamics is crucial for city life. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & San Diego , providing essential insights to ease your transition from Charleston, WV to San Diego, CA.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When moving to San Diego from Charleston, you'll notice the differences in commuting are significant. The average commute time in San Diego is slightly longer, but it offers more diverse and extensive public transit options, making it feasible to live without a car. While Charleston's lower traffic congestion might make it easier to drive, San Diego’s efficient bus and trolley systems offer a robust alternative to driving, especially for daily commuters. You may also find San Diego's bike-friendly paths a refreshing change if you enjoy cycling as a mode of transit.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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