Best Charleston to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 293 mile move from West Virginia to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Charleston to Durham 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 Raleigh Moving Company), 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 Durham. 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 Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 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 | 7.70 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 293 miles from Charleston, WV to Durham, NC will cost on average $2,030 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Durham move is roughly $4,853. 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 | $1,369 | 300 ft³ | 4.56 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,030 | 450 ft³ | 4.51 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,346 | 750 ft³ | 4.46 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,853 | 1100 ft³ | 4.41 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,979 | 1600 ft³ | 4.36 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,762 | 1800 ft³ | 4.31 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
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. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but our guide uses your familiarity with Charleston, WV as a starting point to help you understand the local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Durham, NC . By comparing popular neighborhoods in both cities, you can discover the Durham neighborhood that feels most like home.
| Charleston | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | Trinity Park | Historic homes, vibrant arts scene |
| Kanawha City | Old West Durham | Residential with a growing commercial hub |
| South Hills | Hope Valley | Affluent, woodland retreats |
| West Side | Walltown | Revitalization and community-focused initiatives |
| North Charleston | Northgate Park | Family-oriented with green spaces |
If you appreciate the historic elegance and vibrant arts scene of Charleston’s East End, you’ll find a similar charm in Durham’s Trinity Park, known for its preserved architecture and active community events. For those drawn to the woodland retreats and affluence of South Hills, the rolling landscapes and classic homes of Hope Valley provide an upscale sanctuary just minutes from urban amenities. Kanawha City's blend of residential serenity and evolving commerce finds its match in Old West Durham, which offers a thriving local market feel with cafes and boutiques lining the streets. Each neighborhood presents unique features, blending the familiar with the new.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Durham
Relocating from Charleston, WV to Durham, NC presents both opportunities and challenges . By taking a closer look, you can gain an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. The charts below will help compare the pros and cons of each city so you can make a more informed decision.
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Harsh winters
- Lack of cultural diversity
- Smaller university presence
Durham, NC- Diverse job opportunities
- Mild climate
- Rich cultural scene
- Renowned universities
Durham, NC- Higher cost of living
- Frequent traffic jams
- Fewer open spaces
- Rapid development
Charleston, WV- Close-knit community
- Lower traffic congestion
- Beautiful natural parks
- Historical charm
Charleston's close-knit community offers a supportive environment, but the city's limited job market can restrict your career advancements. In contrast, Durham boasts a burgeoning job scene with opportunities in sectors like technology and healthcare, notably within the Research Triangle Park. However, with this economic growth comes a higher cost of living. Charleston's beauty is embodied in its natural parks like Kanawha State Forest, offering tranquil escapes, while Durham presents a dynamic city vibe with fewer open spaces but access to vibrant areas such as Downtown Durham and its renowned attractions, like the Nasher Museum of Art. In moving to Durham, you’ll find a city on the rise, with a rich cultural fabric but the compromises that accompany such growth.
Charleston vs. Durham Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and day-to-day life. By understanding the local cuisine between Charleston, WV & Durham, NC , you can get a taste of what each city has to offer and better prepare for what awaits on your move.
| Charleston | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot Dogs with Slaw | Pimiento Cheese |
| Most popular meat dish | Chicken Fried Steak | Barbecue Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Stuffed Peppers | Grilled Portobello Mushrooms |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Durham, you'll find yourself in a vibrant food scene with a rich variety to explore. Known for its beloved Pimiento Cheese, Durham offers iconic establishments such as Mateo nestled in the bustling American Tobacco District and Mother & Sons, celebrated for hearty Italian meals. The city's Food Truck scene thrives too, perfect for grabbing tacos on the go. With an adventurous palate, you'll enjoy authentic Southern barbecue in the diverse neighborhood of Brightleaf Square. As health-conscious options abound, seeking plant-based foods is also a rewarding experience.
Charleston vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an essential role in making any place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide, connecting key foodie destinations in both Charleston, WV and Durham, NC.
| Charleston | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Pies & Pints | Pie Pushers | Offers craft beer selections and artisanal pizza |
| Bluegrass Kitchen | Toast | Known for eclectic New American cuisine |
| Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill | Backyard BBQ Pit | Offers authentic BBQ atmosphere and flavors |
| Lotus | Saved by the Barn | Known for diverse Asian cuisine menu |
| South Hills Market and Café | Guglhupf Bakery, Café & Biergarten | Offers a warm dining experience with local ingredients |
| Soho’s | Morgan Imports Café | Provides casual European-inspired dining |
| Laury’s Restaurant | NanaSteak | High-end dining with an emphasis on quality meats |
| Smokehouse BBQ | The Original Q Shack | Boasts robust flavors and authentic smoked meats |
| It's A Southern Thing | Geer Street Garden | Serves classic Southern comfort food in a fun setting |
| Blossom Deli | Alivia's Durham Bistro | Combines classic deli options with contemporary eats |
As you transition to Durham, finding culinary comfort is a delightful endeavor. When you’re missing the craft ales and unmatched pizza from Pies & Pints, head over to Pie Pushers where the local vibe and vibrant pie creations feel familiar yet excitingly different. For those craving the rich BBQ flavors from Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill, Backyard BBQ Pit offers a hearty menu with tender meats that echo those smoky, comforting notes. Meanwhile, if Bluegrass Kitchen's commitment to locally-sourced ingredients has been a staple in your diet, Toast in Durham will expand your palate with its creative spins and eclectic offerings while keeping true to that same dedication to fresh ingredients.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When moving from Charleston, WV to Durham, NC , understanding the housing differences is vital. This comparison aids in evaluating cost, style, and lifestyle adjustments.
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most Popular Items Mentioned in Real Estate Listing | Porches, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonial_Revival_architecture">Fireplaces</a> | <a href="https://www.visitchapelhill.org/">Innovative Kitchens</a>, Open Floor Plans |
Transitioning to Durham from Charleston marks a significant shift in urban dynamics and housing style. While you'll find the charming Colonial Revival architecture in Charleston, Durham surprises with a contemporary edge, showcasing a trend of open floor plans and innovative kitchens. The lifestyle in each city is distinct; Durham offers a more urban, bustling environment with higher walkability and bikeability ratings, encouraging active transportation. This potentially enhances access to local hotspots and amenities, easing the exploration of cultural and culinary scenes in Durham.
Charleston vs. Durham Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences when moving from Charleston, WV to Durham, NC can help you prepare for the change in climate and adjust your daily living comfortably. This comparison offers a look into what you can expect in your new environment versus what you're used to.
Charleston, WV
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Flooding, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Charleston to Durham, you'll notice an increase in average temperatures, particularly in the winter. Durham enjoys significantly more sunny days, which may be appealing if you prefer bright, clear skies. Although the humidity in both cities is closely comparable, you'll find that the mild winters in Durham present a considerable relief from the snow-heavy winters typical of Charleston. With a higher UV index in Durham, extra sun protection may become a part of your daily routine.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Durham
When you're planning a move from Charleston, WV to Durham, NC , understanding the differences in the cost of living is essential. This comparison will help you evaluate the economic conditions in both cities, so you can prepare for what to expect financially in your new home.
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 45,000 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5 | 1.01 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.5 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Government | Technology, Research, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Less noticeable |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
Moving to Durham may present a significant financial adjustment, as both the average household income and cost of living are noticeably higher than in Charleston. In Durham, you'll find a thriving job market dominated by technology and research, appealing sectors for those looking to further their careers. While property taxes in Durham are over double those in Charleston, the state's income tax rate is comparatively lower, which might somewhat offset the higher living expenses. Additionally, you'll find a dynamic community with less noticeable poverty, although homelessness may be somewhat more visible than in Charleston.
Charleston vs. Durham 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 & Durham , focusing on the unique characteristics that define each city's local culture and community values.
| Charleston | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | Republican-majority in local government | Democratic-majority in local government |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Religiously diverse |
Moving from Charleston, WV to Durham, NC involves transitioning to a city with a more liberal political landscape, as evidenced by Durham's Democratic-majority local government compared to Charleston's Republican-majority. While Charleston's political atmosphere is generally more conservative, Durham's community embraces a broader spectrum of political ideologies. Additionally, Durham's religious community is notably diverse, representing a mix of faiths unlike Charleston's predominantly Christian demographic. This cultural diversity often influences Durham's vibrant social and community activities, creating opportunities to engage with various perspectives and experiences.
Charleston vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Whether you're planning a move or just visiting, understanding the nuances of driving and transit in different cities can greatly enhance your experience. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Durham to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like in each city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, in certain areas |
Charleston offers a relatively quick average commute time of 20 minutes, largely thanks to its lower traffic congestion, which rates a 3 out of 10. However, public transit is limited, earning a rating of 4, meaning having a car is often necessary. On the other hand, Durham, while having slightly higher congestion and a longer commute time at 25 minutes, provides more robust public transit options, scoring a 6. This makes it possible to navigate areas such as downtown Durham without a car, offering more flexibility for those who prefer public transportation. Exploring local hubs like the Durham Transit Plan can offer insights into future improvements.
Additional Resources
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