Factors influencing moving costs from Lansing to Charlestontoggle

The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Lansing to Charleston can be as low as $1,304 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 7,112.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Lansing, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $453 to $1,087. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Lansing to Charleston

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

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

Lansing Charleston
Average rent cost $1,129 $875
Average home value $148,542 $153,672
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $59,354
Cost of living (single person) $1,595 $1,549
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,199 $3,862
Unemployment rate 7.4% 6.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.25% 6.5%
  • Rent prices in Charleston are 23% lower than in Lansing, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Lansing.
    Home prices in Charleston are 3.5% higher than in Lansing.
  • Income in Charleston is 8.3% lower than in Lansing, so you could earn less 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 2.9% lower than in Lansing. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 8.0% lower than in Lansing.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 16.22% lower than in Lansing.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Charleston, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Charleston are 16.67% higher than in Lansing.
  • State income taxes in Charleston are 52.94% higher than in Lansing.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,913.48 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Lansing.

How life is different in Lansing vs. Charleston

Charleston Lansing
Population 48,018 112,644
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 2 5
Walkability score 33 46
Bike friendliness score 28 55
Crime Index 53.94 48.66
Safety Index 46.06 51.34
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston's population is about 57% less than Lansing.
  • Charleston's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Lansing's higher score of 5.
  • Charleston is less walkable than Lansing with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Lansing's 46 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 Lansing, which has a score of 55 out of 100.
  • Charleston's crime rate is higher than Lansing with a score of 53.94 compared to Lansing's 48.66. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66%.
  • Charleston is considered to be less safe than Lansing with a score of 46.06 vs Lansing's 51.34.
  • Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Lansing it's good.

Other things to consider for your Lansing 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 stateโ€™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 Commissionโ€™s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that theyโ€™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\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™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. Youโ€™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.

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 youโ€™re settled into your new home in West Virginia, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Charleston has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Charleston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Clay Center, West Virginia State Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and The Art Emporium.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Haddad Riverfront Park, Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve, and Cato Park โ€” among other spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Charleston Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Lansing to Charleston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Lansing.

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

Because most people are moving from Lansing to Charleston in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Lansing to Charleston take?

The 418-mile move from Lansing, MI, to Charleston, WV, takes one to four days. Some Lansing movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Charleston.

Helpful moving resources