($814) Movers From Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV

What to know before moving from Columbus to Charleston

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

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

• Rent prices in Charleston are 39% lower than in Columbus, 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 35.7% lower than in Columbus.
• Income in Charleston is 8.8% lower than in Columbus, 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 44.4% lower than in Columbus. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 46.7% lower than in Columbus.
• The unemployment rate in Charleston is 8.77% higher than in Columbus.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Charleston, since the city’s sales taxes in Charleston are 6.67% lower than in Columbus.
• State income taxes in Charleston are 85.71% higher than in Columbus.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,669.18 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Columbus.

How life is different in Columbus vs. Charleston

• Charleston's population is about 95% less than Columbus.
• Charleston's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Columbus's higher score of 5.
• Charleston is less walkable than Columbus with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Columbus's 41 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 Columbus, which has a score of 48 out of 100.
• Charleston's crime rate is higher than Columbus with a score of 53.94 compared to Columbus's 49.65. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
• Charleston is considered to be less safe than Columbus with a score of 46.06 vs Columbus's 50.35.
• Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Columbus it's good.

Other things to consider for your Columbus 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: You can verify a West Virginia moving company\’s license by visiting the state'spublic 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: 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 toCharleston Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Charleston

Now that you’ve chosen "Charlie West" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Charleston to check out.

Helpful moving resources