Factors influencing moving costs from Pittsburgh to Charleston
What to know before moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston
Moving from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh than in Charleston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Pittsburgh compares to Charleston so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Pittsburgh | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,500 | $875 |
Average home value | $222,451 | $153,672 |
Average income (per capita) | $54,306 | $59,354 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,129 | $1,549 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,011 | $3,862 |
Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 6.2% |
Sales tax | 7.0% | 7.0% |
State income tax | 3.07% | 6.5% |
- Rent prices in Charleston are 42% lower than in Pittsburgh , which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Charleston.
Home prices in Charleston are 30.9% lower than in Pittsburgh . - Income in Charleston is 9.3% higher than in Pittsburgh , 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 27.2% lower than in Pittsburgh . This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 22.9% lower than in Pittsburgh .
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is 12.68% lower than in Pittsburgh .
- Sales taxes are the same in Charleston and Pittsburgh .
- State income taxes in Charleston are 111.73% higher than in Pittsburgh .
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,182.71 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Pittsburgh .
How life is different in Pittsburgh vs. Charleston
Charleston | Pittsburgh | |
---|---|---|
Population | 48,018 | 303,255 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 2 | 8 |
Walkability score | 33 | 62 |
Bike friendliness score | 28 | 55 |
Crime Index | 53.94 | 37.74 |
Safety Index | 46.06 | 62.26 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Charleston's population is about 84% less than Pittsburgh .
- Charleston's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Pittsburgh 's higher score of 8.
- Charleston is less walkable than Pittsburgh with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Pittsburgh 's 62 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 Pittsburgh , which has a score of 55 out of 100.
- Charleston's crime rate is higher than Pittsburgh with a score of 53.94 compared to Pittsburgh 's 37.74. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Pittsburgh neighborhoods are safer than 37.74%.
- Charleston is considered to be less safe than Pittsburgh with a score of 46.06 vs Pittsburgh 's 62.26.
- Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Pittsburgh it's good.
Other things to consider for your Pittsburgh 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 regulationsโsome areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the stateโs 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 Commissionโs Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that theyโre 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\โs license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You wonโt need a moving permit in West Virginia, though it\โs 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 youโve chosen "Charlie West" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Charleston to check out.
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, itโs the perfect time to explore Charleston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Charleston, such as the Clay Center, West Virginia State Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and The Art Emporium.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Haddad Riverfront Park, Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve, and Cato Park โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Charleston Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Pittsburgh to Charleston?
The best time to move from Pittsburgh to Charleston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Pittsburgh .
When is the cheapest time to move from Pittsburgh to Charleston?
Because most people are moving from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Charleston take?
The 227-mile move from Pittsburgh , PA, to Charleston, WV, takes one to two days. Some Pittsburgh movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Charleston.