Best Charleston to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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.

Best Charleston to Detroit Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, 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 |
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,432 | 300 ft³ | 4.77 |
1 Bedroom | $2,126 | 450 ft³ | 4.72 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,505 | 750 ft³ | 4.67 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,086 | 1100 ft³ | 4.62 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,318 | 1600 ft³ | 4.57 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,143 | 1800 ft³ | 4.52 |


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
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) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |

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. 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.
Charleston | Detroit | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
South Hills | Palmer Woods | Affluent, historic homes |
Kanawha City | Midtown | Medical centers, educational institutions |
East End | Corktown | Bohemian, arts-centric vibe |
Edgewood | Rosedale Park | Tree-lined streets, community feel |
West Side | Grandmont Rosedale | Residential, family-focused |
Elk City | Eastern Market | Vibrant, eclectic markets |
North Charleston | New Center | Growing, lively atmosphere |
Downtown Charleston | Downtown Detroit | Business, cultural attractions |
East Charleston | Indian Village | Historic, unique architecture |
Teays Valley | Grosse Pointe | Suburban, 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 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.
- Limited job market
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer entertainment venues
- Small-town feel
- Diverse industry options
- Rich cultural scene
- Vibrant nightlife
- Urban experience
- Higher crime rate
- More expensive housing
- Industrial landscape
- Congested roads
- 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.
Charleston | Detroit | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | Coney Dog |
Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Detroit-Style Pizza |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Shawarma |
Most popular vegan food | Stuffed Peppers | Lentil 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 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.
Charleston | Detroit | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Pies & Pints | Supino Pizzeria | Offers a selection of artisanal pizzas |
Bluegrass Kitchen | Lady of the House | Farm-to-table dishes with a cozy setting |
Fazio’s Italian Restaurant | Lupone's Italian Restaurant | Classic Italian favorites |
Tidewater Grill | Joe Muer Seafood | Fresh seafood and upscale dining |
The Chop House | Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse | Known for premium steaks and elegant ambiance |
Sokolata Greek Cafe | Golden Fleece Restaurant | Specializes in Mediterranean cuisine |
Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Imperial | Creative tacos and vibrant atmosphere |
Laury's Restaurant | The Apparatus Room | High-end dining experience in a historic space |
Grill on the Hill | Republica | Casual and affordable American fare |
Defluri’s Fine Chocolate & Coffee | Bon Bon Bon | Handcrafted 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.

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.
Comparison | Charleston | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Art Deco |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Patios and porches | Parks 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 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.
Charleston, WV
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Charleston | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Floods, storms | Snowstorms, 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.
Comparison | Charleston | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $46,000 | $36,140 |
Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 99.4 |
State Income Tax | 6.5% | 4.25% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 1.64% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 6% |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Energy, Education | Automotive, Health Services, Technology |
Affluence | Moderate | Low |
Poverty | Significant | High |
Homelessness | Manageable | Challenging |
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.
Charleston | Detroit | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Conservative-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
Local Politics | Republican influence | Democratic influence |
Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse 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.
Comparison | Charleston | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
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.



Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to Michigan Routes
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