Moving from Charleston, SC, to Jacksonville, FL

Making your way to the Bold New City of the South 

Jacksonville, FL, is the largest metropolitan area by land mass (840 square miles) in the continental U.S. Though separated by just 240 miles of Atlantic coastline, each city has its own distinctive vibe. Moving from Charleston to Jacksonville means trading a slower pace and cozy historical charm for a bustling hub of business and culture. But there’s still plenty of Southern hospitality to go around! 

Explore northeast Florida’s natural surroundings 

While Jacksonville has a population north of a million people (roughly five times the size of Charleston), there’s plenty of room to roam. Along with a collection of world-class golf courses, it has the largest urban park system in America — four times the size of the Island of Manhattan. Jacksonville boasts 80,000 acres of parks, with the Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve alone covering 46,000.  

The longest stretch of the St. Johns River runs through Duval County, and Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches. And you’ll get an average of 270 sunny days per year to enjoy it all! 

It's easy to find delicious regional favorites 

Because Charleston and Jacksonville aren’t that far apart, the two cities cherish traditional Lowcountry cooking. That means whatever makes your mouth water in Charleston can likely be found in Jacksonville. Dishes like shrimp and grits, Hoppin’ John and she-crab soup — and barbecue, of course — are just a few of the tasty treats you won’t want to miss in your new hometown. 

Grow your career and stretch your dollars   

Jacksonville has developed into one of the hottest job markets in the country. MoneyGeek ranks it as the nation’s top city for job seekers in a 2023 study. It’s no wonder, considering some of Jacksonville’s main attractions: 

  • No state income tax 
  • An affordable cost of living (housing there is 40 percent less expensive than in Charleston) 
  • Abundant sunny weather 
  • Coastal location 
  • Big-city amenities 

Healthcare, education and finance are among the most prominent job sectors, with hospitality opportunities on the rise. The area’s multiple military bases offer service members and civilians employment options. 

Make U-Pack your first choice for the First Coast 

Get a head start on your new adventure with U-Pack®! We offer a full-service long-distance moving experience at a DIY price through a network of conveniently located service centers. Learn how to move easily and affordably by getting a free quote.