($856) Cost to Move From Louisville, KY to Charleston, WV

1. Kentuckiana Moving, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
2. Margaret’s Movers and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
4. Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
5. Berger Allied Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Louisville to Charleston

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Louisville to Charleston will cost between $856 and $3,112. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Louisville to Louisville will range from $1,600 to $4,286, and a large move from Louisville to Charleston will cost from $2,039 to $5,572.

Cost of moving containers from Louisville to Charleston

If you’re moving from Louisville to Charleston, expect to pay between $594 and $1,332 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,047 up to $1,897. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,379 and $2,615. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Kentucky.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Louisville to Charleston

Renting a moving truck from Louisville to Charleston is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $281 and $509. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $290 and $573. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $361 up to $729 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

• If you’re heading to Charleston from Louisville, you’ll find that rent is roughly 30% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
• Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 37% less in Charleston than in Louisville.
• Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 15% lower in Charleston compared to Louisville.
• Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Charleston. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 17% lower than in Louisville.
• Choosing to move to Charleston can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 15% less than in Louisville.
• In Charleston, the unemployment rate is approximately 24% higher than in Louisville, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
• Sales taxes rise by 17% in Charleston over Louisville, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
• Income taxes are 63% higher in West Virginia than in Kentucky, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

• Charleston’s population is about 94% less than Louisville.
• Charleston’s public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Louisville’s score of 6.
• Charleston is less walkable than Louisville with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Louisville’s 91 out of 100.
• Charleston has a bike-friendliness score of 28 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Louisville, which has a score of 79.
• Charleston and Louisville have a similar crime rate with scores of 53.94 and 56.68, respectively.
• Charleston is considered to be safer than Louisville with a safety index of 46.06 vs Louisville’s 43.32.
• Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Louisville it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
• State regulator: You can verify a West Virginia moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: West Virginia doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
• Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Charleston. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
• Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Downtown
• East End
• West Side
• Kanawha City
• City Center

Best neighborhoods for families

• South Hills
• Edgewood
• Kanawha City
• Fort Hill
• Loudon Heights

Things to do in Charleston

Once you’re settled into your new home in West Virginia, it’s time to get out and discover what Charleston has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

• Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Charleston, such as the Clay Center, West Virginia State Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and The Art Emporium.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Haddad Riverfront Park, Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve, and Cato Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
• Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Charleston Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.