($1,312) Cost to Move From Portland, ME to Charleston, WV

1. Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
5. Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Portland to Charleston

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Portland to Charleston typically costs between $1,312 and $4,740. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,494 and $6,123 when moving from Portland to Charleston. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Portland to Charleston, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,313 up to $8,820.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to Charleston

If you’re relocating from Portland to Charleston, you’ll typically spend between $776 and $1,923 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,451 up to $2,754. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,912 and $3,669. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to Charleston

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Portland 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 $586 and $1,040. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $620 to $1,325. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $769 and $1,577.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Charleston from Portland, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 56% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• With home prices being nearly 72% cheaper in Charleston, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 8% lower in Charleston than in Portland.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Charleston. The cost of living for a single person is 38% less compared to Portland.
• Relocating to Charleston could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 36% lower than in Portland.
• The unemployment rate in Charleston exceeds that of Portland by about 19%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes in Charleston exceed those in Portland by 27%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
• Income taxes are 12% higher in West Virginia than in Maine. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• Charleston’s population is about 30% less than Portland.
• Charleston’s public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Portland’s score of 6.
• Charleston is less walkable than Portland with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Portland’s 62 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 Portland, which has a score of 68.
• Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 53.94 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
• Charleston is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 46.06 vs Portland’s 67.84.
• Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Portland it’s Good.

• 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a West Virginia moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in West Virginia, 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 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

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

Now that you’ve made the move to West Virginia, 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 Clay Center, West Virginia State Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and The Art Emporium.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Haddad Riverfront Park, Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve, and Cato 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 Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.