($1,267) Movers From Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN

What to know before moving from Charleston to Memphis

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

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

• Rent prices in Memphis are 48% lower than in Charleston, 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 Memphis.
  Home prices in Memphis are 74.3% lower than in Charleston.
• Income in Memphis is 22.8% lower than in Charleston, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Memphis include FedEx, AutoZone, and International Paper.
• The cost of living for a single person in Memphis is 65.2% lower than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Memphis is 44.2% lower than in Charleston.
• The unemployment rate in Memphis is 100.00% higher than in Charleston.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Memphis, since the city’s sales taxes in Memphis are 8.33% higher than in Charleston.
• One perk of moving to Memphis is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Charleston.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,042.64 in Memphis to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Charleston.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Memphis

• Memphis's population is about 321% greater than Charleston.
• Memphis's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Charleston's lower score of 3.
• Memphis is less walkable than Charleston with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Charleston's 40 out of 100.
• Memphis has a bike-friendliness score 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Charleston, which has a score of 50 out of 100.
• Memphis's crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 77.49 compared to Charleston's 44.97. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
• Memphis is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 22.51 vs Charleston's 55.03.
• Air quality in Memphis is good, and in Charleston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston vs. Memphis move

• Weather: Winter weather comes alternately from the upper Great Plains and the Gulf of Mexico, which can lead to drastic swings in temperature. Summer weather may come from Texas (very hot and humid) or the Gulf (hot and very humid). Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year though mainly during the spring months. Large hail, strong winds, flooding and frequent lightning can accompany these storms. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Tennessee, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While Tennessee doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• 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 Memphis without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Memphis

With your sights set on "Bluff City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Memphis.

Helpful moving resources