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($1,214) Cost to Move From Charleston, SC to Los Angeles, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,479 miles from Charleston to Los Angeles has an average cost ranging from $1,564 to $7,267. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly seven–18 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Charleston to Los Angeles

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charleston to Los Angeles

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Charleston to Los Angeles. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 6 interstate moving companies in Charleston. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Los Angeles.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Charleston to Los Angeles

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,479-mile move from Charleston to Los Angeles using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,334 – $5,538
  • Moving Container $1,761 – $3,375
  • Rental Truck $1,404 – $2,610
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,339 – $7,267
  • Moving Container $2,212 – $4,933
  • Rental Truck $1,564 – $3,234
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,341 – $10,916
  • Moving Container $3,140 – $6,703
  • Rental Truck $1,864 – $3,734
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
James Island, SC Hawaiian Gardens, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Cottageville, SC Norwalk, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 27, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Seabrook Island, SC Carson, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 18, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Goose Creek, SC La Palma, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 07, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
McClellanville, SC Lake Sherwood, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
North American Van Lines
Ridgeville, SC Sun Village, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Rockville, SC North Tustin, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
PODS
Folly Beach, SC Buena Park, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 24, 2025
United Van Lines
Moncks Corner, SC San Marino, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 18, 2025
Safeway Moving
Mount Pleasant, SC Long Beach, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 30, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Los Angeles, CA to Charleston, SC guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Charleston to Los Angeles moves

Organizing a move from Charleston to Los Angeles can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 10 local movers in Charleston known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Charleston to Los Angeles.

  1. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  4. Cougar Moving: 4.12 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.16 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
61.8% of all reviews were positive
37.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Strong word of mouth powers All My Sons Moving & Storage, with 62% of customer input praising the team’s efficiency, careful handling, professional attitude, and quick pace. Clients frequently mention courteous crews and movers who ensure belongings arrive undamaged—qualities that set them apart from many competitors. On the downside, 38% warn of damages to items, extra or unexpected charges, and poor communication, including unresolved complaints and higher-than-quoted bills. Two reviews report slow or inconsistent follow-up on damages and pricing disputes—much more critical than what customers typically see from rivals. The broad review base of 346 entries gives a clear picture: All My Sons is recognized for reliable, fast work, but also criticized for lapses in property care and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (843) 202-4860

Company Info

State license #: 9792-B

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.4% of all reviews were positive
5.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Smooth Move Charleston means you’ll likely be impressed. Out of 270 customer inputs, 94% praised the company for efficient service, professional staff, careful handling of possessions, clear communication, and a smooth moving process. Multiple people noted easy scheduling, as well as fast, cautious crews that often finished under budget and with no surprises. Customers described their moves as stress-free with property and valuables respected throughout. Hardworking, fast-moving teams and personable attitudes have made these movers stand out when compared to others in the industry. Negative input made up just 5%, with issues concentrated around property damage, unprofessional conduct, or communication gaps. These incidents involved broken or lost items and inconsistent follow-up, which customers found frustrating. Overall, most people felt their belongings were handled safely and the staff was knowledgeable and courteous. Few companies in Charleston earn the consistent, high marks for reliability and skill Smooth Move Charleston receives from its customers.
Get a Quote (843) 860-9717

Company Info

State license #: 9823

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2357653

Alternate Names: Go Smooth Move, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.6% of all reviews were positive
10.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Low Country Moving, LLC receives high praise from most customers, with 233 out of 260 feedback entries (nearly 90%) recommending their services. Clients consistently report efficient and quick service, professional and courteous staff, careful handling of items, and solid communication. Many say booking is easy and pricing is straightforward, noting experiences that are smoother than with larger national firms. On the downside, some report instances of damaged items, especially when furniture is not packed as securely as expected. There are also complaints about poor packing quality and communication breakdowns when resolving claims. Compared to other movers, this company stands out for its speed, reliability, and professional attitude, though attention to packing details is vital for higher-value items. Persistent issues around item care and follow-up detract from an otherwise stellar reputation.
Get a Quote (843) 737-1279

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2362770

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
8.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe Cougar Moving as a moving company that consistently delivers fast, careful, and affordable service, with nearly nine out of ten reviewers sharing very favorable feedback out of 132 responses analyzed. Clients frequently highlight the team’s efficiency, professionalism, and skill in handling belongings safely, appreciating the affordable rates and responsiveness through the booking process. Many reviewers note punctuality and a friendly, positive attitude among staff, promptly addressing client needs throughout the move. Although most feedback speaks highly of careful handling, some clients experienced damaged items or property, with dissatisfaction directed at slow complaint resolution and, in isolated cases, perceived unprofessional behavior. Communication breakdowns and lack of follow-through on repairs emerged in the few negative comments. Cougar Moving earns stronger praise for reliable, value-driven local moves compared to typical competitors, though future clients should still inquire about damage protection and response times for claims. Nearly 90% of customer input recommends Cougar Moving for those seeking an attentive, efficient moving service at a competitive price point.
Get a Quote (843) 608-1835

Company Info

Pricing: $124/hr

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2868021

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
46.1% of all reviews were positive
52.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day stories pour in for College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, with 323 customer inputs analyzed here. About 46% of feedback is positive, praising efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, fast-moving teams, and clear communication. Many customers describe prompt service, courteous crews, and movers who treat belongings with respect and operate swiftly. On the other hand, 52% of reviews report damaged items, poor communication, or delays. Recurring complaints detail furniture and walls scratched or broken, no response to damage claims, and movers arriving hours late with little notice. Some experience unreliability in scheduling and disappointed follow-up. Compared to other movers, College Hunks’ strong points include efficiency and friendly staff, but incidents of property damage and lack of accountability appear more common here than average. Shoppers seeking careful, timely service should confirm details in advance, as outcomes can differ widely.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Charleston to Los Angeles?

On average, moving companies in South Carolina charge about $137 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,214 – $4,906 $1,323 – $3,322 $1,376 – $2,637
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,339 – $7,267 $2,212 – $4,933 $1,564 – $3,234
4+ bedrooms $6,341 – $10,916 $3,140 – $6,703 $1,864 – $3,734
*Estimated cost ranges for a 2,479-mile move from Charleston to Los Angeles are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to Los Angeles

When planning a move to Los Angeles from Charleston, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,214 and $4,906. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,339 and $7,267 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,341 to $10,916.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to Los Angeles

When you’re heading from Charleston to Los Angeles, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,323 and $3,322. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,212 and $4,933. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,140 to $6,703. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from South Carolina easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to Los Angeles

A moving rental truck from Charleston to Los Angeles is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,376 to $2,637. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,564 to $3,234, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Charleston to Los Angeles costs around $1,864 to $3,734.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Charleston to Los Angeles

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Charleston to Los Angeles may only cost $2,398, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $10,047.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Charleston.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,376–$3,372), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Los Angeles

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Los Angeles runs about 10% higher for singles and 61% higher for families than Charleston.

Singles spend around $5,833 in Charleston versus $5,300 in Charleston; families pay $12,720 compared with $7,890.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charleston Los Angeles
Average 1 BR rent $2,529 $2,603
Average 3 BR rent $4,487 $4,443
Average home value $559,231 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $62,294 $74,993
Cost of living (single) $5,300 $5,833
Cost of living (family of four) $7,890 $12,720
Unemployment rate 4.0% 10.6%
Sales tax 9.0% 9.5%
State income tax 7.0% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 18% more expensive in Los Angeles than in Charleston. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 323% steeper in Los Angeles compared to Charleston.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 20% greater in Los Angeles than in Charleston, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Los Angeles, with the cost of living for a single person being 10% more than in Charleston. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Los Angeles, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 61% higher than in Charleston.
  • Los Angeles has a higher unemployment rate than Charleston by about 165%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes in Los Angeles surpass those in Charleston by 6%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 90% more in California than in South Carolina. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Charleston versus Los Angeles:

Living Expense Charleston Los Angeles
Basic utilities $156.99 $192.54
Cell phone plan $54.78 $62.50
Dozen eggs $4.55 $7.02
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.58
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $100.00
Gym membership $29.17 $47.76
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Los Angeles, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Los Angeles.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in Los Angeles.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Los Angeles.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Los Angeles.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in Los Angeles.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Los Angeles.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Los Angeles

Charleston Los Angeles
Population 150,277 3,820,914
Transportation score 3 8
Walkability score 40 69
Bike friendliness score 50 59
Crime index 44.97 53.81
Safety index 55.03 46.19
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Los Angeles’s population is about 2443% greater than Charleston.
  • Los Angeles’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 3.
  • Los Angeles is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 40 out of 100.
  • With a score of 59 out of 100, Los Angeles is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 50 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Los Angeles’s crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 53.81 compared to Charleston’s 44.97. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
  • Los Angeles is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 46.19 vs Charleston’s 55.03.
  • Air quality in Los Angeles is Moderate, and in Charleston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston to Los Angeles move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Charleston and Los Angeles are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Los Angeles. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Los Angeles

With your sights set on City of Angels, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Los Angeles.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

Things to do in Los Angeles

With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Los Angeles. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Los Angeles is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, and Battleship USS Iowa Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)Los Angeles FC (MLS)Los Angeles Kings (NHL)Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)Los Angeles Rams (NFL)Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to Los Angeles?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Charleston to Los Angeles. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Charleston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Los Angeles?

Want to save on your move from Charleston to Los Angeles? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Charleston to Los Angeles take?

The 2,479-mile move from Charleston, SC, to Los Angeles, , takes seven to 18 days. Some Charleston movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Los Angeles.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Charleston?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 6 movers in Charleston provide piano moving services. 4 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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