Best Charleston to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Charleston to Milwaukee Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1About Time Moving Systems LLC9.329.33Authorized For HHGContact
2Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, 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 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,534300 ft³5.11
1 Bedroom$2,278450 ft³5.06
2 Bedrooms$3,759750 ft³5.01
3 Bedrooms$5,4581100 ft³4.96
4 Bedrooms$7,8591600 ft³4.91
5+ Bedrooms$8,7511800 ft³4.86
*Please note: These West Virginia to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from West Virginia & Wisconsin. 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 WI mover.
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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 Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 2,396+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2525330 / 877057

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 2,029+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
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. 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.

CharlestonMilwaukeeHow They're Similar
East EndBrady StreetHistoric architecture, vibrant arts scene
South HillsBay ViewResidential area with stunning views
Elk CityRiverwestEclectic community, diverse culture
Kanawha CityEast SideShopping centers, family-friendly
West SideThird WardArt 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.

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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 .

CONs
PROs
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Limited job market
  • Limited cultural venues
  • Scarce public transit
  • Economic struggles
  • Fewer educational institutions
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Diverse job opportunities
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Thriving economy
  • Renowned universities
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Harsh winter weather
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fast-paced environment
  • Increased housing costs
  • Higher crime rates
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • 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.

CharlestonMilwaukee
Most iconic local food itemPepperoni RollCheese Curds
Most popular meat dishSmoked BBQ RibsBratwurst
Most popular street food itemHot DogPretzel
Most popular vegan foodVeggie PizzaVegan 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.

CharlestonMilwaukeeWhat You'll Love
1010 BridgeBlue's EggKnown for exceptional breakfast offerings in an upscale setting, similar to 1010 Bridge's refined menu.
Bluegrass KitchenComet CaféOffers a comfort food menu with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients paralleling Bluegrass Kitchen’s ethos.
Pies & PintsScreaming TunaBoth offer creative takes on traditional dishes, with Screaming Tuna featuring sushi fusion as Pies & Pints does with pizza.
Bricks & BarrelsHarbor HouseFor steak and seafood enthusiasts; Harbor House provides a scenic dining experience akin to Bricks & Barrels.
Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill BBQIron Grate BBQ Co.Masters of smoked meats and perfect side pairings, very much like Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill BBQ.
SokolataFerrante'sA mutual passion for pastries and desserts, each a testament to their city’s culinary diversity.
The Block Restaurant & Wine CellarBalzacBoth locations serve up a luxurious wine selection and a menu set for a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience.
Black Sheep Burrito & BrewsVagabondOffers inventive and globally-inspired casual dining options that echo Black Sheep's adventurous spirit.
Tricky FishSobelman’s Pub & GrillKnown for hearty dishes and a laid-back atmosphere, similar to Tricky Fish’s casual seafood approach.
Café AppalachiaColectivo CoffeeOffers 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.

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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.

ComparisonCharlestonMilwaukee
Typical Architecture StyleColonialCraftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious YardsProximity 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 background image

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.

Summer icon
85°F / 64°F

Charleston, WV

80°F / 63°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
44°F / 26°F

Charleston, WV

32°F / 18°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
45 inches

Charleston, WV

34 inches

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
30 inches

Charleston, WV

47 inches

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCharlestonMilwaukee
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersFloodingBlizzards
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.

ComparisonCharlestonMilwaukee
Avg. Household Income$47,420$46,637
Cost of Living Index92.7101.9
State Income Tax6.5%7.65%
Avg. Property Tax0.57%2.53%
Avg. Sales Tax6%5.6%
Top 3 IndustriesPublic Administration, Health Care, EducationManufacturing, Health Care, Education
AffluenceModestModerate
PovertyNotableSignificant
HomelessnessManageableAcute

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.

CharlestonMilwaukee
Political Make-upModerateLiberal
Local PoliticsCity CouncilCity Council
ReligionPredominantly ChristianDiverse 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.

ComparisonCharlestonMilwaukee
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)1822
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?NoYes

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.

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