Best Charleston to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Charleston to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 584 mile move from West Virginia to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Charleston to Milwaukee 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 About Time Moving Systems LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.32 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, 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 |
Cost to Move from Charleston to Milwaukee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 584 miles from Charleston, WV to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $2,278 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Milwaukee move is roughly $5,458. 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 | $1,534 | 300 ft³ | 5.11 |
1 Bedroom | $2,278 | 450 ft³ | 5.06 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,759 | 750 ft³ | 5.01 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,458 | 1100 ft³ | 4.96 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,859 | 1600 ft³ | 4.91 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,751 | 1800 ft³ | 4.86 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Milwaukee Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

About Time Moving Systems LLC
4909 8th Ave
Kenosha, WI, 53140
About About Time Moving Systems LLC
This locally owned and operated moving company serves the Milwaukee, WI, area with high-quality residential and commercial relocation services. About Time...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2525330 / 877057 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
310 Progress Way Suite 140
Sun Prairie, WI, 53590
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |

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. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison
To help you familiarize yourself with Milwaukee, WI by using your existing knowledge of Charleston, WV as a baseline, we will compare the local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Milwaukee, WI . This comparison will provide insights into similar communities, helping you navigate your new home.
Charleston | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
East End | Brady Street | Historic architecture, vibrant arts scene |
South Hills | Bay View | Residential area with stunning views |
Elk City | Riverwest | Eclectic community, diverse culture |
Kanawha City | East Side | Shopping centers, family-friendly |
West Side | Third Ward | Art galleries, bustling nightlife |
If you enjoy the vibrant arts and historic architecture of Charleston's East End, Brady Street in Milwaukee offers a similar charm with its unique blend of old-world appeal and modern artistic flair. Spend a day exploring the numerous art galleries and enjoy live performances that capture the spirit of this neighborhood. Meanwhile, South Hills' scenic walks and lush landscapes find a parallel in Bay View, where [Humboldt Park](https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Humboldt) offers beautiful trails and serene views of the Milwaukee skyline. Bay View is also known for its community-centric vibe, featuring local eateries and music venues that provide a rich cultural experience. The eclectic community of [Riverwest](https://www.riverwestpublichouse.org/) mirrors the creativity found in Elk City, making it a hub for artists and cultural events that celebrate diverse backgrounds.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Milwaukee
Considering a move from Charleston, WV to Milwaukee, WI involves weighing the pros and cons of each location. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Charleston, WV to Milwaukee, WI .
- Limited job market
- Limited cultural venues
- Scarce public transit
- Economic struggles
- Fewer educational institutions
- Diverse job opportunities
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Extensive public transportation
- Thriving economy
- Renowned universities
- Harsh winter weather
- Higher cost of living
- Fast-paced environment
- Increased housing costs
- Higher crime rates
- Scenic landscapes
- Tight-knit community
- Slower pace of life
- Lower living costs
- Safe neighborhoods
One of the greatest benefits of moving to Milwaukee is its vibrant cultural scene, offering a wealth of museums and theaters, such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. The city's diverse job opportunities are a significant advantage, with a thriving economy that encompasses industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. While Charleston offers picturesque landscapes and a community-driven environment, Milwaukee's extensive public transportation, including Milwaukee County Transit System, provides easy access to its bustling downtown. Although healthcare and housing costs may be higher in Milwaukee, its dynamic neighborhoods, such as East Side and Bay View, offer a myriad of dining and entertainment options that are unmatched in Charleston.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
Food is an essential part of any local culture, offering a taste of the area's history and creativity. In this comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Milwaukee , you'll discover what's unique about the food scene in each city. It's a guide to help you get acquainted with where you're moving to and savor the culinary spirit of your new home.
Charleston | Milwaukee | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | Cheese Curds |
Most popular meat dish | Smoked BBQ Ribs | Bratwurst |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Pretzel |
Most popular vegan food | Veggie Pizza | Vegan Cheese Pizza |
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 Milwaukee, you'll find a robust food scene well known for its diverse offerings and vibrant culinary culture. The East Side is particularly popular for food enthusiasts, featuring everything from authentic bratwursts to delicious cheese curds, supplemented by a variety of vegan-friendly options. Restaurants such as Kopp's Frozen Custard offer a taste of Milwaukee's classic flavors, while the city presents a plethora of food trucks bustling with eclectic offerings. This area allows for an exciting exploration of local and innovative flavors that are sure to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Food is one of the most comforting aspects when settling into a new city. This restaurant comparison between Charleston, WV and Milwaukee, WI will help you discover your next favorite eateries, using familiar tastes from your current hometown as a guide.
Charleston | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
1010 Bridge | Blue's Egg | Known for exceptional breakfast offerings in an upscale setting, similar to 1010 Bridge's refined menu. |
Bluegrass Kitchen | Comet Café | Offers a comfort food menu with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients paralleling Bluegrass Kitchen’s ethos. |
Pies & Pints | Screaming Tuna | Both offer creative takes on traditional dishes, with Screaming Tuna featuring sushi fusion as Pies & Pints does with pizza. |
Bricks & Barrels | Harbor House | For steak and seafood enthusiasts; Harbor House provides a scenic dining experience akin to Bricks & Barrels. |
Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill BBQ | Iron Grate BBQ Co. | Masters of smoked meats and perfect side pairings, very much like Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill BBQ. |
Sokolata | Ferrante's | A mutual passion for pastries and desserts, each a testament to their city’s culinary diversity. |
The Block Restaurant & Wine Cellar | Balzac | Both locations serve up a luxurious wine selection and a menu set for a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience. |
Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Vagabond | Offers inventive and globally-inspired casual dining options that echo Black Sheep's adventurous spirit. |
Tricky Fish | Sobelman’s Pub & Grill | Known for hearty dishes and a laid-back atmosphere, similar to Tricky Fish’s casual seafood approach. |
Café Appalachia | Colectivo Coffee | Offers locally sourced beverages and community-oriented atmospheres, aligning with Café Appalachia’s vibe. |
In the transition from Charleston to Milwaukee, you'll find that the culinary scene in your new city holds its own unique treasures. Take Blue's Egg, for example, offering a refined breakfast experience much like 1010 Bridge - it's a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a sophisticated start to their day. Meanwhile, if you're craving comfort food made with a local twist, Comet Café rivals Charleston's Bluegrass Kitchen with its commitment to sustainable, delectable dishes. Moreover, fans of creative fusion will delight in Screaming Tuna's sushi offerings, channeling the same innovative energy that makes Pies & Pints a favorite back in Charleston.

Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how housing in Charleston, WV compares with Milwaukee, WI to make informed decisions. This analysis highlights key metrics like housing cost, architecture, and urban living features.
Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Yards | Proximity to Riverwest |
When considering a move, Milwaukee generally presents a higher cost of living compared to Charleston, with both home prices and rents being significantly higher. However, Milwaukee offers the advantage of a more urban experience, reflected in its superior walkability and bikeability scores. Architecture in Charleston often features Colonial styles, which contrast with Milwaukee's more common Craftsman homes. Furthermore, if proximity to vibrant neighborhoods like Riverwest is important to you, Milwaukee offers urban conveniences that may be lacking in Charleston's more suburban setting.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI
1. Bay View: Known for its community feel, you'll find an abundance of pet-friendly cafes and a popular dog park, ensuring your furry friend will always feel welcome.
2. Third Ward: This neighborhood boasts stylish pet-friendly apartments and several boutiques like Third Ward Dog, where you can pamper your pooch with the latest trends.
3. Wauwatosa: Offering numerous parks and green spaces, such as the spacious Hart Park, it's a paradise for pets who love the outdoors, making walks and playdates a part of your daily routine.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations
When moving from Charleston, WV to Milwaukee, WI , it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new home will compare to what you've been accustomed to. This can help you prepare for changes in climate, temperature variations, and seasonal differences that will affect your daily life and overall comfort.
Charleston, WV
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Flooding | Blizzards |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving to Milwaukee means adjusting to longer, colder winters compared to Charleston, with average winter lows reaching 18°F. Despite Milwaukee experiencing fewer sunny days annually, the drop is slight, so you’ll still enjoy a fair amount of sunshine. However, the risk of blizzards is higher in Milwaukee versus the flooding concerns in Charleston. You'll also encounter different top allergens, with ragweed being more prevalent in Milwaukee's seasonal allergy lineup.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Milwaukee
When you're moving from Charleston, WV to Milwaukee, WI , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will differ from what you're accustomed to. This guide aims to highlight key financial differences to help you better prepare for such a significant transition.
Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $47,420 | $46,637 |
Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 101.9 |
State Income Tax | 6.5% | 7.65% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 2.53% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 5.6% |
Top 3 Industries | Public Administration, Health Care, Education | Manufacturing, Health Care, Education |
Affluence | Modest | Moderate |
Poverty | Notable | Significant |
Homelessness | Manageable | Acute |
As you move from Charleston to Milwaukee, you're likely to find differences in both living expenses and income. Milwaukee's cost of living index is higher, which suggests that living expenses might be relatively higher compared to Charleston. While state income tax is also higher in Milwaukee, the average property tax stands out as significantly more. If you work in industries like manufacturing, health care, or education, both cities provide opportunities, though Milwaukee leans more heavily towards manufacturing. Understanding these distinctions can aid in budgeting and planning for life in a new city.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move involves understanding local culture, and here’s a quick glance at the political and religious landscape. This comparison of the politics between Charleston & Milwaukee highlights key similarities and differences in these cities.
Charleston | Milwaukee | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Moderate | Liberal |
Local Politics | City Council | City Council |
Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse Religious Practices |
In Charleston, you will find a moderate political climate that's reflected in its balanced approach to social and fiscal issues. The city's local politics, managed by the City Council, often focus on community-centered initiatives. In contrast, Milwaukee tends to lean more liberal, which influences its policies towards progressive reforms. Additionally, while Charleston is predominantly Christian, Milwaukee boasts a mix of diverse religious practices, providing an enriching tapestry of spiritual life.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in driving and transit between cities can significantly impact your daily life. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Milwaukee to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like in each city.
Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 18 | 22 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
When considering the average commute times, you'll find that they're relatively similar in both cities, with Milwaukee having a slightly longer commute. However, Milwaukee has a more robust public transit system, rated much higher than Charleston's, which can greatly ease travel without a personal vehicle. Public transit in Milwaukee is quite convenient, thanks to its efficient Milwaukee County Transit System, which allows many residents to forgo car ownership altogether. In contrast, Charleston's limited public transportation options make it more challenging to live without a car, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles for most of your commuting needs.



Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to Wisconsin Routes
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