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($1,163) Cost to Move From Lexington, KY to Charleston, SC

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Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 543 miles from Lexington to Charleston is generally between $441 and $5,520. The trip duration should be approximately one–six days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Lexington to Charleston

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Lexington to Charleston

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Lexington to Charleston, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Lexington, you have a choice of 7 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Charleston smoothly and with confidence.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Lexington to Charleston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 543-mile move from Lexington to Charleston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,280 – $4,080
  • Moving Container $919 – $1,684
  • Rental Truck $413 – $784
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,043 – $5,520
  • Moving Container $1,214 – $2,398
  • Rental Truck $441 – $882
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,961 – $7,699
  • Moving Container $1,666 – $3,178
  • Rental Truck $550 – $1,086
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Colonial Van Lines
Sharpsburg, KY Ravenel, SC
Studio apartment
Oct 20, 2025
Safeway Moving
Carlisle, KY Lincolnville, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Danville, KY Meggett, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Camargo, KY Charleston, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Jeffersonville, KY Rockville, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
American Van Lines
Perryville, KY North Charleston, SC
Studio apartment
Sep 05, 2025
Mayflower Transit
North Middletown, KY Seabrook Island, SC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
Roadway Moving
Keene, KY Kiawah Island, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 09, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Ravenna, KY James Island, SC
Studio apartment
Aug 05, 2025
PODS
Lawrenceburg, KY Jamestown, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 01, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Charleston, SC to Lexington, KY guide.

Top local movers for Lexington to Charleston moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Lexington that also provides long-distance services to Charleston can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed eight local movers in Lexington who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Lexington to Charleston.

  1. Wildcat Moving LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Vincent Fister Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
13.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Wildcat Moving LLC packs a punch in performance, with an impressive 85% of customer input rating them highly out of 321 reviews analyzed. Customers regularly point out reliable efficiency, professional and polite teams, careful handling, a speedy moving process, and clear communication. Movers often go the extra mile with heavy or delicate items while maintaining friendly attitudes, setting Wildcat apart from many competitors. Rates are seen as fair and booking is easy, bolstering the company’s positive reputation. On the flip side, a number of customers report damage to belongings, costs higher than initial quotes, and challenges when filing complaints or seeking compensation. Several reviews detail dissatisfaction about the resolution of claims and hidden fees for insurance or minimums. Compared to other moving companies, Wildcat provides faster and more courteous service but should further improve the consistency of handling claims and communication about final costs.
Get a Quote (859) 948-3553

Company Info

State license #: 3952

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2207083

Alternate Names: Wildcat Furniture Repair , Wildcat Pressure Washing , The Wildcat Group

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.0% of all reviews were positive
13.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe moves with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK as effortless and stress-free, noting efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite movers as stand-out features. Most input, 86% of 236 reviews, was positive, highlighting quick moving and helpful staff who ensured items remained undamaged. Some feedback pointed out issues like damaged belongings, jobs feeling rushed, and unexpected charges, especially in larger or complex moves. The company receives much higher marks for punctuality and efficiency than many moving services, but a small group mentioned still feeling frustrated by damage or inconsistent communication. Clients looking for reliable, careful movers and prompt service strongly favor this company, but people needing meticulous item protection or straightforward billing should verify specifics before booking.
Get a Quote (859) 554-4616

Company Info

State license #: 3885

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Beautiful World, LLC. , Two Men And A Truck – Lexington

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
12.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s the message from most customer feedback for Vincent Fister Inc. Out of 232 reviews analyzed, roughly 85% were positive, with people repeatedly noting efficient, professional staff who communicate well and treat belongings with care. Quick moving processes and organized crews stand out. Pricing transparency and knowledgeable movers also set them apart from competitors. On the downside, about 13% of reviews reported substantial item damage, with some users struggling to resolve claims or encountering unresponsive or rude staff. Compared to similar companies, Vincent Fister Inc. delivers better reliability and professionalism, but improvements are needed for handling damage claims and complaint resolution.
Get a Quote (859) 266-2153

Company Info

State license #: 0065

Years in Business: 71

Alternate Names: Fister, Inc. , Vincent Fister Company, Inc. , United Van Lines

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.9% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day magic and standout professionalism define the feedback for Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc. Out of 72 reviews analyzed, 88.9% were positive, highlighting polite, efficient staff, careful handling, and quick, seamless moves. Customers frequently note strong communication and prompt service. Negative experiences, making up 9.7% of feedback, focus on property damage, unprofessional conduct, and difficulty resolving complaints—especially regarding claims for damaged items. Only 1 review was neutral. Compared to similar companies, Saunier stands out for consistency, friendly teams, and reliable execution, yet occasional lapses in handling and customer care can frustrate those needing service resolution.
Get a Quote (859) 233-2383

Company Info

State license #: 1280

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Saunier North American , Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc., A North American Van Lines Agent

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.9% of all reviews were positive
28.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving as fast, courteous, and consistently professional, with the majority praising efficient moves, polite teams, and careful handling of possessions. Of the 45 total feedback submissions, nearly 69% were positive, reflecting satisfaction with helpful staff and rapid service. Most clients point to seamless booking and affordable rates as standouts, setting the company apart from many competitors. Still, issues occur: late arrivals, item damage, and unexpectedly high bills surface in nearly 29% of feedback, sometimes paired with unresolved complaints. Compared to similar services, College Hunks earns high marks for friendliness and speed, but ongoing concerns about reliability and cost accuracy remain a drawback.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 4393

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: College Hunks Moving , MJ, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Lexington to Charleston?

Movers in Kentucky generally charge an average of $105 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,163 – $3,199 $686 – $1,555 $434 – $760
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,043 – $5,520 $1,214 – $2,398 $441 – $882
4+ bedrooms $3,961 – $7,699 $1,666 – $3,178 $550 – $1,086
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 543-mile move from Lexington to Charleston, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Lexington to Charleston

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Lexington to Charleston typically costs between $1,163 and $3,199. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,043 and $5,520 when moving from Lexington to Charleston. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Lexington to Charleston, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,961 up to $7,699.

Cost of moving containers from Lexington to Charleston

If you’re relocating from Lexington to Charleston, you’ll typically spend between $686 and $1,555 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,214 up to $2,398. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,666 and $3,178. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Kentucky.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lexington to Charleston

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Lexington to Charleston move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $434 and $760. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $441 to $882. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $550 and $1,086.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Lexington to Charleston

The cost of Lexington movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Lexington to Charleston might be as low as $1,570, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,921.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Lexington.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $434 to $1,029 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Lexington to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 71% higher for singles and 89% higher for families than Lexington.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Lexington versus $3,100 in Lexington; families pay $7,890 compared with $4,170.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Lexington Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $1,175 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $2,110 $4,487
Average home value $309,021 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $61,526 $62,294
Cost of living (single) $3,100 $5,300
Cost of living (family of four) $4,170 $7,890
Unemployment rate 4.3% 4.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.0%
State income tax 4.0% 7.0%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 86% higher in Charleston than in Lexington, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 81% higher in Charleston than in Lexington.
  • Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Charleston and Lexington, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Charleston, as the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 71% greater than in Lexington. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Charleston, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 89% more than it is in Lexington.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 7% lower than Lexington, Charleston boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Charleston exceed those in Lexington by 50%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 75% higher in South Carolina than in Kentucky. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Lexington and Charleston, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Lexington Charleston
Basic utilities $206.92 $156.99
Cell phone plan $71.33 $54.78
Dozen eggs $2.98 $4.55
Loaf of bread $2.90 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $14.25 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $80.00
Gym membership $37.50 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lexington than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Lexington than in Charleston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lexington than in Charleston.
  • Bread costs less in Lexington than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Lexington than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lexington than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Lexington than in Charleston.

How life is different in Lexington vs. Charleston

Lexington Charleston
Population 320,347 150,277
Transportation score 4 3
Walkability score 90 40
Bike friendliness score 85 50
Crime index 50.88 44.97
Safety index 49.12 55.03
Air quality Good Good
  • Charleston’s population is about 53% less than Lexington.
  • Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Lexington’s score of 4.
  • Charleston is less walkable than Lexington with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Lexington’s 90 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 Lexington, which has a score of 85.
  • Charleston’s crime rate is lower than Lexington with a score of 44.97 compared to Lexington’s 50.88. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lexington neighborhoods are safer than 50.88%.
  • Charleston is considered to be safer than Lexington with a safety index of 55.03 vs Lexington’s 49.12.
  • Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Lexington it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Lexington to Charleston move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Charleston without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Charleston

Ready to relocate to The Holy City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Charleston.

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

Now that you’ve made the move to South Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore Charleston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Charleston include museums and art centers like the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, and The Charleston Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Lexington to Charleston?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Lexington to Charleston. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Lexington.

When is the cheapest time to move from Lexington to Charleston?

With many people choosing to move from Lexington to Charleston in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Lexington to Charleston take?

Covering 543 miles, the move from Lexington, KY to Charleston, typically takes one to six days. Some Lexington movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Charleston can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Lexington can handle specialty items for my move to Charleston?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Lexington, 6 movers can handle pianos. 4 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of KY, there are 21 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

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