Best Charleston to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charleston to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 405 mile move from West Virginia to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 15 Charleston to Detroit 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 Ready Set Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Detroit. 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.

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Best Charleston to Detroit Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
2Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.468.22Authorized For HHGContact
3Balance Detroit8.437.79Authorized For Property, 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 Detroit

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 405 miles from Charleston, WV to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,126 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Detroit move is roughly $5,086. 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$1,432300 ft³4.77
1 Bedroom$2,126450 ft³4.72
2 Bedrooms$3,505750 ft³4.67
3 Bedrooms$5,0861100 ft³4.62
4 Bedrooms$7,3181600 ft³4.57
5+ Bedrooms$8,1431800 ft³4.52
*Please note: These West Virginia to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from West Virginia & Michigan. 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 MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Charleston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Detroit Movers

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

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
1
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.46/10
based on 379+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.43/10
based on 69+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
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. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison

Whether you're planning a move from Charleston, WV or just curious, this guide will help you use familiar surroundings to understand a new environment. By examining neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Detroit, MI , you'll gain insights into Detroit's offerings based on what you know from Charleston.

CharlestonDetroitHow They're Similar
South HillsPalmer WoodsAffluent, historic homes
Kanawha CityMidtownMedical centers, educational institutions
East EndCorktownBohemian, arts-centric vibe
EdgewoodRosedale ParkTree-lined streets, community feel
West SideGrandmont RosedaleResidential, family-focused
Elk CityEastern MarketVibrant, eclectic markets
North CharlestonNew CenterGrowing, lively atmosphere
Downtown CharlestonDowntown DetroitBusiness, cultural attractions
East CharlestonIndian VillageHistoric, unique architecture
Teays ValleyGrosse PointeSuburban, upscale living

If you're enchanted by the historic homes and affluent charm of Charleston's South Hills, you'll likely find Detroit's Palmer Woods just as captivating, with its beautifully preserved estates and lush green surroundings. Meanwhile, if you enjoy the bustling markets and innovative dining scene in Elk City, Detroit's Eastern Market offers a vibrant mix of artisanal food vendors and community events. Those who love the creative, arts-centric atmosphere of Charleston’s East End will find a similar bohemian vibe in Detroit’s Corktown, where historic architecture meets lively cultural spaces. These neighborhood comparisons not only provide familiarity but also promise new adventures in Detroit's diverse urban landscape.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Detroit

  • Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
  • Visit the Belle Isle Park
  • Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
  • Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
  • Discover the Henry Ford Museum
  • Experience the Motown Museum
  • Try local eats at Eastern Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Detroit

Moving from Charleston, WV to Detroit, MI can be quite transformative. We offer an exploration of the pros and cons involved, providing an honest comparison of living in Charleston and making the move to Detroit. Understanding these differences helps you anticipate the changes and relish the new opportunities that life in Detroit might present.

CONs
PROs
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Limited job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer entertainment venues
  • Small-town feel
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Diverse industry options
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Urban experience
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher crime rate
  • More expensive housing
  • Industrial landscape
  • Congested roads
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Close-knit community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Scenic natural beauty
  • Less traffic

While Charleston offers a charming small-town atmosphere with stunning views from places like the Kanawha State Forest, Detroit provides an exciting urban scene filled with diverse opportunities. Detroit's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Midtown, offer a wealth of cultural attractions and culinary delights like those found in Selden Standard. However, adjusting to the faster pace of Detroit means you may encounter higher living expenses and busy traffic conditions, especially around popular areas like Downtown Detroit. Yet, the lure of robust industrial job prospects and an energetic nightlife might make this transition worthwhile.

Charleston vs. Detroit Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Detroit. Food is an essential part of local culture, shaping what it's like to live in an area. We'll explore the distinctive food scenes of these two locations to help you gain insights about your new culinary environment in Detroit.

CharlestonDetroit
Most iconic local food itemPepperoni RollConey Dog
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsDetroit-Style Pizza
Most popular street food itemHot DogsShawarma
Most popular vegan foodStuffed PeppersLentil Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Bluegrass Kitchen
  • Coonskin Park Restaurant
  • Swaggers
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Detroit, you're stepping into a diverse and vibrant food scene where iconic dishes and innovative eateries blend harmoniously. The city is well-known for the Coney Dog, a delicious must-try originating from the Lafayette Coney Island in the downtown area. For pizza lovers, the Detroit-style deep dish is a delight worth savoring, especially in the lively Greektown neighborhood. If you’re interested in vegan options, Detroit offers a substantial selection, with spots like Chive Kitchen in the nearby suburb of Farmington providing enticing plant-based meals. With a foodie scene that ranks high on the scale, you'll find numerous food trucks and artisanal culinary experiences waiting to be explored in this bustling city.

Charleston vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in familiar flavors is essential when settling into a new city, and this Charleston to Detroit restaurant comparison is your guide to discovering local eateries reminiscent of your favorites back home.

CharlestonDetroitWhat You'll Love
Pies & PintsSupino PizzeriaOffers a selection of artisanal pizzas
Bluegrass KitchenLady of the HouseFarm-to-table dishes with a cozy setting
Fazio’s Italian RestaurantLupone's Italian RestaurantClassic Italian favorites
Tidewater GrillJoe Muer SeafoodFresh seafood and upscale dining
The Chop HouseHyde Park Prime SteakhouseKnown for premium steaks and elegant ambiance
Sokolata Greek CafeGolden Fleece RestaurantSpecializes in Mediterranean cuisine
Black Sheep Burrito & BrewsImperialCreative tacos and vibrant atmosphere
Laury's RestaurantThe Apparatus RoomHigh-end dining experience in a historic space
Grill on the HillRepublicaCasual and affordable American fare
Defluri’s Fine Chocolate & CoffeeBon Bon BonHandcrafted bonbons and gourmet coffee

When you transition from Charleston's culinary scene to Detroit's diverse offerings, you will discover heartwarming analogs that keep beloved flavors close. For instance, Pies & Pints renowned for its gourmet pizzas, finds a kindred spirit in Detroit’s Supino Pizzeria, where hand-crafted pies tantalize your taste buds. Dive into the farm-to-table comfort of Bluegrass Kitchen's dishes, then explore the homegrown delights at Detroit's Lady of the House, where local ingredients shine. On your seafood adventures, Tidewater Grill pairs elegantly with Detroit’s Joe Muer Seafood, offering a chic dining experience steeped in oceanic freshness. Each transition promises flavors that satisfy your cravings and introduce you to new culinary delights.

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Ready to start your move?

Charleston vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts

When moving from one city to another, understanding real estate differences is crucial. Knowing how Charleston and Detroit compare in housing costs , architecture , and walkability can help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonCharlestonDetroit
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalArt Deco
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPatios and porchesParks and public transport access

When examining the housing landscape of Charleston and Detroit, you will discover a rich contrast in architectural styles. Homes in Charleston often feature Colonial Revival design, resonating with historical southern charm. In contrast, Detroit is well-known for its unique Art Deco structures, offering a splash of 1920s elegance. Housing costs also vary; although Charleston boasts more affordable median home prices, Detroit has a slightly higher rental market, complemented by better public transport access and bikeability. By prioritizing these factors, you can select a city that aligns with your preferred lifestyle while also keeping practical considerations like cost and convenience in mind.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI

1. Midtown: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Midtown is ideal for you and your pets due to its numerous parks and green spaces, along with pet-friendly cafes and grooming salons.

2. Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly restaurants and the popular Roosevelt Park, perfect for afternoon walks.

3. Woodbridge: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and close-knit community, Woodbridge offers a peaceful environment for pets, including easy access to spacious parks and the Michigan Humane Society for your pet’s needs.

Charleston vs. Detroit Weather Considerations

When moving from one city to another, understanding the weather differences can be crucial. If you're relocating from Charleston, WV to Detroit, MI , this comparison will help you anticipate and prepare for the changes in climate and conditions you might experience.

Summer icon
85/65

Charleston, WV

83/64

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
42/24

Charleston, WV

33/20

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
45

Charleston, WV

35

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
34

Charleston, WV

42

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCharlestonDetroit
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersFloods, stormsSnowstorms, floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Charleston to Detroit means adapting to colder winter temperatures. Though Charleston experiences a relatively mild winter with highs around 42°F, Detroit sees winter highs averaging only 33°F. Interestingly, Detroit offers more sunny days than Charleston, which might help brighten the colder months. Humidity levels in both cities are comparable, but you'll experience slightly less rainfall in Detroit. Additionally, if you are sensitive to seasonal allergies, be prepared for higher ragweed pollen in Detroit compared to Charleston's pollen and mold.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're moving from Charleston, WV to Detroit, MI , it's essential to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape differ between these cities. This information helps you plan your budget effectively and adjust to the economic environment of your new home.

ComparisonCharlestonDetroit
Avg. Household Income$46,000$36,140
Cost of Living Index92.799.4
State Income Tax6.5%4.25%
Avg. Property Tax0.57%1.64%
Avg. Sales Tax6%6%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Energy, EducationAutomotive, Health Services, Technology
AffluenceModerateLow
PovertySignificantHigh
HomelessnessManageableChallenging

As you transition from Charleston to Detroit, you'll find notable differences in cost of living and tax structures. Detroit, with a slightly higher cost of living index, presents increased living expenses that may affect your overall budget. Even though state income tax in Michigan is lower, higher property taxes in Detroit can impact housing costs. The economic landscapes differ significantly too, with Detroit's top industries centered around automotive and technology, reflecting its historical roots and evolving growth sectors. Understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions about managing your finances in a new city.

Charleston vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison

This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Detroit to help you get a better sense of your new community.

CharlestonDetroit
Political Make-upConservative-leaningLiberal-leaning
Local PoliticsRepublican influenceDemocratic influence
ReligionPredominantly ChristianDiverse Religious Groups

Moving from Charleston to Detroit introduces you to a different political landscape. While Charleston tends to have a more conservative influence with Republican support, Detroit leans liberal with a stronger Democratic presence. The city’s vibrant political scene encourages civic engagement and diverse viewpoints. Additionally, Detroit's religious landscape is more diverse, offering a variety of places of worship, including Islamic centers and other non-Christian venues, reflecting the city's multicultural fabric.

Charleston vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the intricacies of daily commuting is crucial when moving to a new city. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Detroit to help you better anticipate what to expect in terms of commute time, traffic congestion, and public transit availability.

ComparisonCharlestonDetroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2030
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?NoYes

Moving from Charleston to Detroit means adjusting to a more extensive public transportation system. Detroit's public transit is notably more accessible, with options such as the DDOT and the SMART bus services. Meanwhile, in Charleston, where public transit is limited, driving is almost a necessity for daily commuting. Traffic congestion is significantly higher in Detroit, often leading to longer commute times. Despite this, the robust network of public transportation allows for a car-free lifestyle, providing you more flexibility as you navigate the city.

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