($964) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Charleston, WV

1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Charleston

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Columbia to Charleston typically costs between $964 and $2,855. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,647 and $4,524 when moving from Columbia to Charleston. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Columbia to Charleston, you’re looking at costs ranging from $2,435 up to $6,433.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Charleston

If you’re relocating from Columbia to Charleston, you’ll typically spend between $641 and $1,534 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,151 up to $2,239. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,449 and $2,660. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Charleston

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Columbia to Charleston move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $343 and $614. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $362 to $736. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $457 and $845.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Charleston from Columbia, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 40% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• With home prices being nearly 30% cheaper in Charleston, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 8% lower in Charleston than in Columbia.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Charleston. The cost of living for a single person is 21% less compared to Columbia.
• Relocating to Charleston could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 10% lower than in Columbia.
• The unemployment rate in Charleston exceeds that of Columbia by about 19%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes are 13% lower in Charleston than Columbia, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
• Income taxes are 7% lower in West Virginia than in South Carolina. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

• Charleston’s population is about 65% less than Columbia.
• Charleston’s public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Columbia’s score of 5.
• Charleston is less walkable than Columbia with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
• Charleston has a bike-friendliness score of 28 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Columbia, which has a score of 35.
• Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 53.94 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
• Charleston and Columbia have a similar safety level, with scores of 46.06 and 48.39.
• Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

• 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: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
• 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a West Virginia moving license through the state’s public 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: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Charleston without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

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, it’s the perfect time to explore Charleston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Charleston include museums and art centers like the Clay Center, West Virginia State Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and The Art Emporium.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Haddad Riverfront Park, Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve, and Cato Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
• Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Charleston Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.