($1,157) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Charleston

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Charleston, you can expect to spend between $1,157 and $4,408. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,258 to $5,603 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Chicago to Charleston typically runs between $3,732 and $7,223.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Charleston

When moving from Chicago to Charleston, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $793 and $1,870. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,481 to $2,736. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,859 up to $3,548. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Charleston

Renting a moving truck in Chicago is usually your cheapest option to get to Charleston. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $599 and $1,099. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $621 and $1,388. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $853 and $1,619.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• As you consider relocating to Charleston, note that rent can be roughly 22% more expensive than it is in Chicago; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 89% higher in Charleston than in Chicago.
• It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 13% less in Charleston than in Chicago.
• Plan for higher expenses in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person is 45% more than in Chicago. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
• Moving to Charleston could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 15% less than in Chicago.
• Charleston experiences an unemployment rate that is about 56% lower than that of Chicago. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
• Sales taxes are 12% lower in Charleston than in Chicago. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Charleston can reduce your overall living expenses.
• Income taxes are 41% higher in South Carolina compared to Illinois. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

• Charleston’s population is about 95% less than Chicago.
• Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Charleston is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Charleston has a bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 44.97 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Charleston is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 55.03 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While South Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Charleston smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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 getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it’s time to see what Charleston is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Charleston offers cultural landmarks like 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 — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.