($1,318) Cost to Move From San Jose, CA to Charleston, SC

1. Lunardi Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
2. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Southwest Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
5. Pure Moving Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from San Jose to Charleston

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from San Jose to Charleston, you can expect to spend between $1,318 and $5,491. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,920 to $8,121 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from San Jose to Charleston typically runs between $7,228 and $12,463.

Cost of moving containers from San Jose to Charleston

When moving from San Jose to Charleston, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,349 and $3,328. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,469 to $5,050. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,472 up to $7,301. 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 California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Jose to Charleston

Renting a moving truck in San Jose 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 $1,484 and $2,846. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,591 and $3,596. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,031 and $4,329.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 19% lower in Charleston than in San Jose, giving you more disposable income monthly.
• Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 62% lower in Charleston than in San Jose.
• It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 25% less in Charleston than in San Jose.
• Plan for higher expenses in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person is 44% more than in San Jose. 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 6% less than in San Jose.
• Charleston experiences an unemployment rate that is about 39% lower than that of San Jose. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
• Sales taxes are similar in Charleston and San Jose (within about 5%), meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
• Income taxes are 47% lower in South Carolina compared to California. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

• Charleston’s population is about 85% less than San Jose.
• Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than San Jose’s score of 7.
• Charleston is less walkable than San Jose with a score of 40 out of 100 vs San Jose’s 51 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 San Jose, which has a score of 62.
• Charleston’s crime rate is lower than San Jose with a score of 44.97 compared to San Jose’s 47.73. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73%.
• Charleston and San Jose have a similar safety level, with scores of 55.03 and 52.27.
• Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in San Jose it’s Moderate.

• 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.