Best Charleston to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charleston to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,601 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Charleston to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), 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 Jose. 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 Jose Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Charleston to San Jose Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1D&L Movers9.349.36ActiveContact
2Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
3Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
4Central Van Lines8.168.11Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Two Men and a Truck7.707.26Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Charleston to San Jose

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,601 miles from Charleston, WV to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,993 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to San Jose move is roughly $9,651. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,677300 ft³8.92
1 Bedroom$3,993450 ft³8.87
2 Bedrooms$6,618750 ft³8.82
3 Bedrooms$9,6511100 ft³8.77
4 Bedrooms$13,9581600 ft³8.72
5+ Bedrooms$15,6121800 ft³8.67
*Please note: These West Virginia to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from West Virginia & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed WV to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Charleston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charleston to San Jose Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 902+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2150739 / 756179

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Central Van Lines Logo

Central Van Lines

Very Good8.16/10
based on 347+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Good7.70/10
based on 848+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3402685 / 1095537

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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 Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be challenging, especially when trying to find the right neighborhood fit. By using this comparison of the local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & San Jose, CA , we'll help you familiarize yourself with San Jose as though you were still in Charleston.

CharlestonSan JoseHow They're Similar
South HillsWillow GlenFamily-friendly, tree-lined streets
Kanawha CityBerryessaResidential, suburban feel
East EndRose GardenHistoric, cultural sites
Capitol Market AreaSan Pedro SquareVibrant, market culture
Elk CityJapantownArtsy, unique community vibe
Harpers FerryAlum RockNatural parks, scenic trails
Downtown CharlestonDowntown San JoseUrban lifestyle, nightlife

If you enjoy the closeness of community and charming streets in South Hills, you'll find Willow Glen in San Jose offers a similar family-friendly atmosphere with its iconic tree-lined streets and local shops. For those who appreciate the market scene in Charleston's Capitol Market, San Pedro Square's lively mix of restaurants and vendors is comparable, offering a buzzing food scene that highlights both local and international flavors. History enthusiasts will find the transition from Charleston's East End to the Rose Garden district seamless. The Rose Garden captivates with its historic charm and cultural landmarks like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, providing layers of character and history that echo those historic avenues of the East End.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to San Jose


Thinking about relocating can be overwhelming, and comparing the pros and cons of moving from Charleston, WV to San Jose, CA provides an opportunity to assess whether this bold step is for you. By examining the differences, you’ll get an honest reflection of what this change of scenery has in store.

CONs
PROs
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Harsh winters
  • Cultural limitations
  • Limited tech innovation
  • Fewer public transit options
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Diverse job market
  • Moderate climate
  • Rich diversity
  • Tech hub
  • Efficient public transit
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Large, bustling population
  • Urban sprawl
  • Modern fast-paced feel
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Tight-knit community
  • Proximity to nature
  • Historical charm


Relocating from Charleston to San Jose promises a dynamic shift, especially in terms of job prospects. San Jose, being the epicenter of Silicon Valley, offers an array of opportunities in tech and innovation, unlike Charleston. Moreover, while Charleston enjoys a lower cost of living, San Jose compensates with its efficient public transit system, enabling you to explore vibrant districts like Santana Row or visit stunning landmarks such as the Winchester Mystery House. Despite higher living expenses, the area's cultural richness, with events and hubs like Japantown or the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, ensures that there’s always something exhilarating to dive into. Ultimately, finding your niche in San Jose might just be one comfortable [public transit](https://www.vta.org/) journey away.

Charleston vs. San Jose Food Guide

Food is an important part of local culture and shapes the experience of living in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & San Jose , providing you insights into the food scene where you're planning to move.

CharlestonSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemHot Dogs with ColeslawBurritos
Most popular meat dishChiliBBQ Tri-tip
Most popular street food itemPepperoni RollTaquerias Tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegetable SoupVegan Burrito
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 Jose, you can indulge in tantalizing visits to iconic spots like La Victoria Taqueria, famed for its popular street food scene. The San Pedro Square Market is a haven for food lovers with its assembly of food trucks offering various global cuisines, making it a foodie paradise. The vibrant Santana Row neighborhood also boasts numerous vegan-friendly dining spots where you can taste the local vegan specialty, the Vegan Burrito. With its plentiful food truck options and emphasis on health-conscious eating, moving to San Jose means you will experience a dynamic and diverse food culture that is very different from Charleston's more traditional offerings.

Charleston vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Finding your favorite restaurants in a new city is an essential step toward feeling at home. This chart will help you navigate your move from Charleston to San Jose by providing a useful comparison of the best local eateries in these cities.

CharlestonSan JoseWhat You'll Love
Bluegrass KitchenThe TableBoth emphasize farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Fidel's TacoLa Victoria TaqueriaPopular for its authentic Mexican flavors and breakfast burritos.
Pies & PintsSlice of HomesteadOffers a creative pizza menu and a range of local brews.
Soho'sLa ForetKnown for refined Italian cuisine and a romantic atmosphere.
1010 Bridge RestaurantNemea Greek TavernaA similar upscale dining experience with Mediterranean influences.
Taylor Books CaféHannah CoffeeA hub for coffee lovers and book enthusiasts alike.
Black Sheep Burrito & BrewsPsycho DonutsOffers quirky twists on traditional foods and a creative atmosphere.
Grill 225LB SteakBoth are known for high-quality steaks and a sophisticated dining environment.
Dem 2 Brothers and a GrillSam's BBQBoth specialize in mouth-watering barbecue with a local flair.
Tricky FishScott's SeafoodKnown for top-notch seafood dishes and a coastal atmosphere.

If you're a fan of Bluegrass Kitchen's commitment to local ingredients, you'll love dining at The Table. Both places make dining an experience in sustainable consumption by sourcing seasonal produce from local farms. For those who crave unique pizzas paired with craft beer, Pies & Pints and Slice of Homestead offer creative dishes that focus on bold flavors and fresh ingredients. If upscale dining is your penchant, Grill 225 and LB Steak both offer expertly cooked steak cuts alongside an ambiance that invites you to indulge. Lastly, rustic fans of Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill will appreciate the smoky barbecued delights concocted at Sam's BBQ, where every bite is a testament to authentic flavors and grilling mastery.

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Ready to start your move?

Charleston vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston and San Jose compare in cost , architecture , and overall lifestyle to make an informed decision .

ComparisonCharlestonSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalRanch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood Floors, FireplacesModern Kitchens, Open Floor Plans

When considering a move from Charleston to San Jose, one of the most striking differences is the cost of housing. You'll find that the median home price in San Jose is considerably higher, reflecting the city's vibrant tech-driven economy. Charleston's architecture, with its charming Colonial Revival style, offers a quaint contrast to San Jose's modern ranch houses and state-of-the-art kitchens. While walkability scores are similar between the two cities, San Jose offers more urban amenities, elevating its lifestyle score and tourism options. These differences highlight not just economic, but also cultural and lifestyle shifts you'll face when moving.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Charleston vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

When you're moving from Charleston, WV to San Jose, CA , understanding the weather differences is crucial to adjusting smoothly to your new environment. This comparison will help you prepare for the climate changes and new weather conditions you might encounter.

Summer icon
85°F / 63°F

Charleston, WV

82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
45°F / 26°F

Charleston, WV

59°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
45 inches

Charleston, WV

16 inches

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
18 inches

Charleston, WV

0 inches

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCharlestonSan Jose
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersFloods, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

You'll experience much more sunshine in San Jose compared to Charleston, as the former boasts over 300 sunny days annually. While Charleston faces cold winters with significant snowfall, you'll find San Jose's winters mild and snow-free. Humidity is also lower in San Jose, offering a drier climate overall. However, the risk of earthquakes and wildfires in San Jose requires preparation, a contrast to the flood and tornado risks in Charleston.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to San Jose

If you're considering a move from Charleston, WV to San Jose, CA , understanding the cost of living differences is crucial. Comparing factors like income, taxes, and industry preferences will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonCharlestonSan Jose
Avg. Household Income45,000$126,377
Cost of Living Index92.7156.1
State Income Tax6.513.3
Avg. Property Tax0.60.8
Avg. Sales Tax6%9.25%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Education, RetailTech, Finance, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableMinimal
HomelessnessLowModerate

Moving from Charleston to San Jose involves a significant change in the economic landscape. San Jose’s average household income is notably high, reflecting its affluent tech-driven economy. However, this comes with a higher cost of living index, which nearly doubles that of Charleston. While San Jose has more robust tax rates in terms of state income and sales taxes, it also offers greater opportunities in booming industries such as tech and finance. These factors make San Jose a desirable yet challenging location financially, so pre-planning is essential for a successful transition.

Charleston vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

Relocating from Charleston, WV to San Jose, CA offers a fascinating contrast in lifestyles and cultures. This comparison highlights the political and religious makeup of the two cities, providing a quick snapshot of what you might expect. You'll discover how politics between Charleston & San Jose differ, giving you a better understanding of your new community.

CharlestonSan Jose
Political Make-upModerateLiberal
Local PoliticsPrimarily Democratic with a mix of Republican influencesPredominantly Democratic
ReligionPredominantly ChristianReligious diversity with significant populations of Christians, Buddhists, and Hindus

One of the most noticeable differences you'll find is in the local politics between the two cities. Charleston has a political landscape that leans towards the center, with both Democratic and Republican influences shaping its governance. In contrast, San Jose is known for its strong Democratic leadership, reflecting California's overall political climate. The religious makeup also differs significantly. Charleston's residents largely identify as Christian, while San Jose boasts rich religious diversity, reflecting the melting pot culture of Silicon Valley. Exploring local places of worship, such as the Buddhist Temple of San Jose, can offer you unique insights into this multicultural blend.

Charleston vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

The purpose of this guide is to provide you with insight into the daily commute and traffic that await you after moving. By comparing the traffic and transportation options between Charleston and San Jose , you'll better understand how these two cities differ and how to best navigate your newfound surroundings.

ComparisonCharlestonSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2031
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

Adjusting to the traffic in San Jose can be a bit of a challenge compared to Charleston. With a higher congestion rating, you'll likely experience more frequent traffic jams. However, on the plus side, San Jose offers significantly better public transit options compared to Charleston. The availability of reliable services like [VTA](https://www.vta.org/) bus and light rail systems can make commuting without a car more feasible in San Jose. While in Charleston, a car is almost essential due to limited public transportation options. This difference can ease your transition, especially if you prefer or require the convenience of public transit.

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