Best Charleston to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,566 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 Charleston to San Francisco 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 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 San Francisco. 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 Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | 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 Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,566 miles from Charleston, WV to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $3,963 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to San Francisco move is roughly $9,578. 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 | $2,657 | 300 ft³ | 8.86 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,963 | 450 ft³ | 8.81 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,568 | 750 ft³ | 8.76 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,578 | 1100 ft³ | 8.71 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,852 | 1600 ft³ | 8.66 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,493 | 1800 ft³ | 8.61 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to San Francisco 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (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) |
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 Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
If you're moving from Charleston, WV to San Francisco, CA , this comparison will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in one city with the closest similar neighborhood in the other city.
| Charleston | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | The Mission | Cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife |
| South Hills | Pacific Heights | Affluent, residential with beautiful homes |
| Kanawha City | Sunset District | Family-friendly with great schools |
| Elk City | Haight-Ashbury | Art and creativity-centric vibe |
| South Charleston | Outer Richmond | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Downtown Charleston | Financial District | Economic hub with modern amenities |
| Edgewood | Bernal Heights | Quaint with a sense of close-knit community |
| North Charleston | Nob Hill | Historic charm with urban convenience |
| Cross Lanes | Ingleside | Suburban atmosphere, ideal for commuters |
| St. Albans | Marina District | Waterfront living, popular for strolling |
If you're enchanted by the cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife in Charleston’s East End, you'll find a similar pulse in San Francisco's Mission District, known for its colorful murals and lively atmosphere. For those who appreciate the affluent and residential vibe of South Hills, Pacific Heights offers stunning Victorian homes along with magnificent views of the Bay, perfect for those who enjoy a scenic walk through Lafayette Park. If Kanawha City's family-friendly environment with great schools appeals to you, you'll feel right at home in the Sunset District, renowned for its picturesque Golden Gate Park and welcoming ambiance. Meanwhile, Elk City’s creative vibe finds its counterpart in Haight-Ashbury, where boutiques, cafes, and a love for art set an inspired stage for newcomers. Seekers of a quieter, suburban feel will enjoy Outer Richmond, much like South Charleston, featuring access to serene beaches and relaxed living.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to San Francisco
Are you considering a move from Charleston, WV to San Francisco, CA? This comparison explores the pros and cons of relocating to help you assess both the advantages and disadvantages of such a major change in city life. Whether it's about better opportunities or cultural nuances, this guide presents an honest reflection of this transition.
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Lack of public transport
- Fewer cultural events
- Limited dining choices
San Francisco, CA- Thriving tech sector
- Extensive transit options
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Diverse cuisine
San Francisco, CA- High living expenses
- Busy urban areas
- Challenging social connections
- Faced-paced lifestyle
Charleston, WV- Low cost of living
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Close-knit community
- Rich local history
Moving to San Francisco from Charleston offers a vivid lifestyle change, with diverse eateries like Zuni Café providing delectable dining experiences unavailable in Charleston. The neighborhoods, such as the iconic Mission District, bring a lively cultural atmosphere with frequent music festivals and art galleries. While the cost of living in San Francisco is notably high, the city compensates with extensive transit options, such as the BART system, making commuting convenient. San Francisco's tech sector can open up vast job opportunities, contrasting with Charleston's more limited market. You'll also find renowned parks like Presidio, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors, though the sense of a small, close-knit community of Charleston may be dimmer amid San Francisco's fast-paced urban life.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and daily life, and understanding the culinary landscape offers insights into a new city. Here's a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & San Francisco to help you better understand the food scene you'll encounter when you move.
| Charleston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Hot Bologna Sandwich | Cioppino |
| Most popular street food item | Ramp Festival Foods | Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | Bean Soup | 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Francisco's diverse food scene is a hub for foodies, offering iconic dishes like sourdough bread and cioppino. You’ll find a blend of gourmet and casual dining, with popular vegan options such as vegan sushi, particularly in the Mission and Haight-Ashbury neighborhoods. Notable restaurants like Zuni Café capture the city's culinary essence. Food trucks are abundant, serving various cuisines across the city parks. While Charleston offers its own unique flavors, moving to San Francisco means an expansive exploration of international and health-conscious dining options.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Determining your new favorite restaurants in San Francisco can ease the transition from Charleston, WV. Discovering culinary connections between familiar Charleston eateries and those in San Francisco can make your new area feel like home.
| Charleston | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bluegrass Kitchen | Zuni Café | Known for farm-to-table dishes and a welcoming ambiance |
| Bridge Road Bistro | Nopa | Both offer a contemporary twist on comfort food |
| Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille | Public House | A hub for sports fans with an energetic vibe |
| Leone's Italian Restaurant | Tosca Café | Classic Italian with a modern flair |
| Chez Vivian | Saison | Exquisite dining with attention to detail |
| Laury's Restaurant | Gary Danko | Elegant dining experiences offering upscale cuisine |
| Recovery Sports Grill | Sports Basement | Less about the restaurant, more about sports culture, makes you feel at home |
| Sokolata | Ghirardelli Chocolate Company | Satisfies your sweet tooth with luxurious chocolates |
| Taylor Books Cafe | Book Passage Café | Café culture blended with literature for the avid reader |
| Moxxee Coffee | Blue Bottle Coffee | Renowned for rich, artisanal brewing |
When seeking a contemporary twist on comfort food, Nopa mirrors the spirit of Charleston's Bridge Road Bistro with its focus on fresh and flavorful ingredients. If upscale dining is your preference, Gary Danko provides an elegant culinary experience similar to that of Charleston's Laurie's Restaurant, with a commitment to sophistication and quality. For those enchanted by Italian cuisine, Tosca Café captures the essence of Leone's Italian Restaurant, offering beautifully crafted dishes that celebrate Italian tradition with a modern twist. Additionally, if you're connecting over sports, Public House is where you can bask in a lively atmosphere akin to the Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most critical aspects of a move. Knowing how Charleston and San Francisco compare in terms of housing can help make informed decisions. This comparison provides valuable insights into various housing factors between these two cities.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards | Rooftop access |
Moving from Charleston to San Francisco means experiencing a substantial increase in housing costs. While Charleston offers more affordable real estate with a comfortable Colonial Revival style, San Francisco's market is characterized by its high median home price and iconic Victorian architecture. The lifestyle also changes significantly; you'll find that San Francisco boasts superior walkability and bikeability, making it easier to embrace an active lifestyle. Meanwhile, Charleston features more residential spaces with spacious yards, while San Francisco real estate often highlights rooftop access, adding a unique urban charm to city living.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, WV to San Francisco, CA , it's crucial to understand the weather differences . This knowledge will help you anticipate changes in climate and prepare for your new environment.
Charleston, WV
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition to San Francisco, you will experience a milder climate compared to the more extreme seasonal temperatures in Charleston. San Francisco's cooler summers can be a refreshing change, while its relatively warm winters offer a more temperate escape. You might appreciate the increased number of sunny days in San Francisco, although the air quality can be moderate due to urban factors. Notably, you'll need to prepare for San Francisco's potential for earthquakes, whereas Charleston's main natural disaster threat involves flooding. Lastly, you'll enjoy substantially less annual snowfall, but be cautious of grass pollen if seasonal allergies are a concern.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to San Francisco
When moving from Charleston, WV to San Francisco, CA , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial factors will differ to ensure a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $43,000 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.73% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 8.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Coal, Healthcare, Education | Tech, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Modest | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When comparing the financial landscape between Charleston and San Francisco, you'll notice significant differences that may impact your planning. San Francisco's average household income is considerably higher, reflecting its more affluent economy, yet this is balanced by its much higher cost of living index. This suggests that while you might earn more, your expenses will also be significantly greater. The disparity in state income tax rates is another factor to consider, as California's is notably higher. Furthermore, while Charleston is fueled by industries like coal and healthcare, San Francisco's economy thrives on tech and finance, offering different career opportunities. Despite its economic affluence, San Francisco faces a higher rate of homelessness, presenting a complex socio-economic environment.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be both exciting and daunting, particularly when considering the diverse cultural landscapes involved. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Comparing the politics between Charleston & San Francisco helps you understand your new environment's dynamics.
| Charleston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Generally conservative | Strongly liberal |
| Local Politics | Conservative governance | Progressive governance |
| Religion | Majority Christian | Highly diverse |
When you move from Charleston, West Virginia, to San Francisco, California, you'll notice a significant shift in the political landscape. Charleston tends to lean on the conservative side, often reflecting the broader statewide political inclinations, while San Francisco is recognized for its progressive, liberal politics. This markedly different political atmosphere is mirrored in local governance as well, with San Francisco pushing progressive agendas and policies at a local level. In terms of religious composition, you'll find that Charleston has a majority of Christian residents, whereas San Francisco offers a more diverse religious tapestry, reflecting its multicultural environment. Exploring local establishments, such as the churches in Charleston or the cultural centers in San Francisco, can provide deeper insights into these differences.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When relocating, it’s essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic between your current city and your new one. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston, WV & San Francisco, CA to help you anticipate and plan your new commuting experience.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 45 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Typically not | Yes |
In Charleston, WV, commutes tend to be relatively short and free of congestion, with an average commute time of just 22 minutes. The city’s low traffic scores (3 out of 10) reflect its more relaxed pace. However, public transit options are limited, so owning a car is often necessary. Conversely, San Francisco is renowned for its robust public transit options, scoring a 9 and making it feasible to live without a car. Yet, it's crucial to prepare for longer commute times and heavier traffic, as commutes average 45 minutes in the bustling city. Embrace opportunities to explore San Francisco neighborhoods through public transit links like the BART or the Muni system to fully experience what city life has to offer.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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