($1,116) Movers From Baltimore, MD to Charleston, WV

What to know before moving from Baltimore to Charleston

Moving from Baltimore to Charleston means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Baltimore than in Charleston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Baltimore compares to Charleston so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Charleston are 45% lower than in Baltimore, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Charleston.
  Home prices in Charleston are 15.0% lower than in Baltimore.
• Income in Charleston is 1.7% higher than in Baltimore, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Charleston include IOGAWV President, Kanawha County Board Of Education, and CDSscrubs.
• The cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 30.3% lower than in Baltimore. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 24.1% lower than in Baltimore.
• The unemployment rate in Charleston is 21.52% lower than in Baltimore.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Charleston, since the city’s sales taxes in Charleston are 16.67% higher than in Baltimore.
• State income taxes in Charleston are 13.04% higher than in Baltimore.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,090.42 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Baltimore.

How life is different in Baltimore vs. Charleston

• Charleston's population is about 92% less than Baltimore.
• Charleston's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Baltimore's higher score of 8.
• Charleston is less walkable than Baltimore with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Baltimore's 64 out of 100.
• Charleston has a bike-friendliness score 28 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Baltimore, which has a score of 53 out of 100.
• Charleston's crime rate is lower than Baltimore with a score of 53.94 compared to Baltimore's 72.72. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Baltimore neighborhoods are safer than 72.72%.
• Charleston is considered to be safer than Baltimore with a safety index of 46.06 vs Baltimore's 27.28.
• Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Baltimore it's good.

Other things to consider for your Baltimore vs. Charleston move

• Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Charleston, while January and February are the least comfortable months.
• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a West Virginia moving license 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: 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: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Charleston

Ready to relocate to "Charlie West"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Charleston.

Helpful moving resources