($1,424) Movers From McAllen, TX to Charleston, WV

What to know before moving from McAllen to Charleston

Moving from McAllen to Charleston comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Charleston is generally more expensive than McAllen, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Charleston are 35% lower than in McAllen, 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 30.5% lower than in McAllen.
• Income in Charleston is 3.3% higher than in McAllen, 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.
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 6.3% higher than in McAllen. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• If you’re moving your family to Charleston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 8.6% higher than in McAllen.
• The unemployment rate in Charleston is 21.52% lower than in McAllen.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Charleston, since the city’s sales taxes in Charleston are 15.15% lower than in McAllen.
• State income taxes in Charleston are 6.50% higher than in McAllen.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,189.43 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in McAllen.

How life is different in McAllen vs. Charleston

• Charleston's population is about 66% less than McAllen.
• Charleston's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus McAllen's higher score of 3.
• Charleston is less walkable than McAllen with a score of 33 out of 100 vs McAllen'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 McAllen, which has a score of 46 out of 100.
• Charleston's crime rate is higher than McAllen with a score of 53.94 compared to McAllen's 36.26. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26%.
• Charleston is considered to be less safe than McAllen with a score of 46.06 vs McAllen's 63.74.
• Air quality in Charleston is good, and in McAllen it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your McAllen 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: 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in West Virginia, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While West Virginia 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 Charleston 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 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Charleston

With your sights set on "Charlie West", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Charleston.

Helpful moving resources