($971) Cost to Move From Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC

1. Big Man’s Moving Company, LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
2. Brothers EZ Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
3. Golden Movers LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
5. Let’s Get Moving, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Tampa to Charleston

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Charleston from Tampa, you can expect prices to land between $971 and $2,702. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,665 to $4,513 for the trip from Tampa to Charleston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,755 and $6,526.

Cost of moving containers from Tampa to Charleston

Moving containers from Tampa to Charleston will cost you $609 to $1,461 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,193 to $2,271. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,523 to $2,705. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Florida.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Tampa to Charleston

Renting a moving truck from Tampa to Charleston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $365 and $686 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $390 to $806. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $500 to $1,018.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to Charleston? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 30% higher than in Tampa, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Charleston are about 51% higher than those in Tampa.
• Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 7% lower in Charleston compared to Tampa.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Charleston, as living costs for a single person are 64% higher than in Tampa. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• The cost of living for a family is within about 5% of the same in Charleston and Tampa, so you probably won’t see a major difference in expenses.
• The unemployment rate in Charleston is about 20% lower than in Tampa. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
• Sales taxes in Charleston are 38% more than in Tampa, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• South Carolina has a state income tax, while Florida does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• Charleston’s population is about 63% less than Tampa.
• Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Tampa’s score of 8.
• Charleston is less walkable than Tampa with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Tampa’s 51 out of 100.
• Both Charleston and Tampa have similar bike-friendliness scores (51 vs 50), meaning Charleston is about as safe for cyclists as Tampa. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Charleston and Tampa have a similar crime rate with scores of 44.97 and 46.15, respectively.
• Charleston and Tampa have a similar safety level, with scores of 55.03 and 53.85.
• Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Tampa it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Charleston. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Harleston Village
• James Island
• North Charleston
• South of Broad West Ashley

Best neighborhoods for families

• Mount Pleasant
• Park Circle
• Stiles Point
• Summerville
• Wagener Terrace

Things to do in Charleston

After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Charleston has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Charleston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, and The Charleston Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.