Best Durham to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Durham to Lancaster and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,496 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Durham to Lancaster moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Lancaster. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Durham to Lancaster Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.03 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.75 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Durham to Lancaster
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,496 miles from Durham, NC to Lancaster, CA will cost on average $3,904 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Lancaster move is roughly $9,433. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,618 | 300 ft³ | 8.73 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,904 | 450 ft³ | 8.68 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,469 | 750 ft³ | 8.63 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,433 | 1100 ft³ | 8.58 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,640 | 1600 ft³ | 8.53 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,255 | 1800 ft³ | 8.48 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lancaster to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham to Lancaster Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
Speedwell Transportation Inc.
860 W. Avenue L8
Lancaster, CA, 93534
About Speedwell Transportation Inc.
Speedwell Transportation Inc. is a team of professional movers in Santa Clarita, CA with over 60 years of experience. The team...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1861478 / 673344 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Antelope Valley Van and Storage
602 E Ave R
Palmdale, CA, 93550
About Antelope Valley Van and Storage
Instead of memories of stress, you’ll remember moving day as a memorable experience with Antelope Valley Van and Storage, a moving...
Services
- Local Moves
- Intrastate Moves
- Interstate Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 34380 / 133696 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 13,629 (2024) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Durham vs. Lancaster Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding your new environment through what you already know can ease the transition. This guide is designed to help you compare local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Lancaster, CA , leveraging familiar grounds to navigate unfamiliar territory. By identifying the top neighborhoods in Durham and pairing them with their Lancaster equivalents, you'll find yourself feeling right at home in no time.
| Durham | Lancaster | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Park | Quartz Hill | Historic vibe, family-friendly |
| Old West Durham | West Lancaster | Community-centric, artsy feel |
| Hope Valley | Rancho Vista | Upscale, golf course adjacent |
| Woodcroft | Desert View Highlands | Suburban, with ample green space |
| Duke Park | Lancaster East | Park-rich, family-oriented |
| Forest Hills | Westside Lancaster | Quiet, with a touch of historic charm |
| Southpoint | Antelope Valley Commerce Center | Retail hub, modern amenities |
| Cleveland-Holloway | Lancaster Village | Cultural diversity, vibrant community life |
| Rockwood | Lancaster West | Artistic spirit, small-town feel |
| Watts Hospital-Hillandale | Skytower Park | Community-focused, recreational parks |
In comparing these neighborhoods, it's evident that both Durham and Lancaster offer unique attractions tailored to diverse lifestyles and preferences. For instance, if you're enchanted by the historic and picturesque vibe of Trinity Park in Durham, you'll find a similar charm in Quartz Hill, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and historical sites. Fans of the vibrant, artsy feel of Old West Durham might appreciate West Lancaster's community-centric approach and flourishing arts scene. Not to be overlooked, these areas boast impressive green spaces like Duke Park and Lancaster East's abundance of parks, perfect for those weekend family outings or leisurely afternoons. A move from Hope Valley to Rancho Vista promises a seamless transition for those accustomed to an upscale lifestyle with scenic golf course views. These detailed comparisons aim to make your relocation as smooth as possible by connecting the familiar with the new.
Things to Do in Lancaster
Visit the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve- Enjoy a show at Lancaster Performing Arts Center
- Explore Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Stroll around The BLVD
- Hike in Antelope Valley
- Try local brews at Bravery Brewing
- Watch a JetHawks baseball game
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Lancaster
Moving from Durham, NC to Lancaster, CA offers a unique life-changing opportunity, yet it entails navigating both challenges and benefits. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Durham to Lancaster relocation goodness and badness . Understanding both the pros and cons will equip you with a balanced perspective for this significant transition.
Durham, NC- Higher humidity
- Smaller city
- Less desert landscape
- Fewer aerospace jobs
Lancaster, CA- Drier climate
- Larger area
- More desert landscape
- More aerospace jobs
Lancaster, CA- Less greenery
- Fewer historical sites
- Smaller art scene
- Very dry climate
Durham, NC- Lush greenery
- Rich historical sites
- Vibrant art scene
- More humid climate
Moving to Lancaster presents an opportunity to embrace a drier climate, which many find more comfortable compared to the higher humidity of Durham. You'll find yourself in a landscape adorned with unique desert scenery, offering a new backdrop for exploration and outdoor activities such as visiting the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. Lancaster's burgeoning aerospace industry provides ample employment opportunities, notably at companies like Northrop Grumman. In contrast, Durham is replete with lush green spaces like Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a vibrant arts scene supported by platforms such as the Durham Arts Council, and rich historical sites including the Bennett Place State Historic Site. Each city boasts its unique offerings, from Lancaster's expansive desert vistas and aerospace careers to Durham's verdant landscapes and cultural hubs, offering a contrasting yet enriching living experience.
Durham vs. Lancaster Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC and Lancaster, CA, showcasing how food serves as a vital element of local culture and the living experience. Through this exploration, you can gain insights into the culinary scene of your future home.
| Durham | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Jumbo Shrimp Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork Sandwich | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Street Corn (Elote) |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Durham, NC to Lancaster, CA, you'll find that each city offers a distinct culinary experience reflective of their unique cultures. In Durham, the local cuisine is deeply rooted in southern traditions, with barbecue being a staple—evidenced by places like Bullock’s Bar-B-Que. The city’s vibrant food truck scene offers a diverse array of street foods, among which tacos take a special spot. On the vegan front, BBQ Jackfruit is a popular choice, showing Durham’s adaptability to modern dietary trends. Transitioning to Lancaster, the culinary landscape shifts towards a stronger Mexican influence, with carne asada and jumbo shrimp tacos standing out. Lancaster's health consciousness and vegan offerings, such as quinoa salads from spots like Rustic Leaf Bistro, reflect a growing trend. However, its food truck scene is less prominent than Durham’s. This comparative look at both cities' food scenes highlights the rich, diverse culinary experiences awaiting you, tailored to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Durham vs. Lancaster Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city means discovering new favorite spots to call home, especially when it comes to dining out. Finding comparable restaurants in Durham, NC, and Lancaster, CA, will ease the transition, allowing you to continue enjoying meals that taste like home. Whether you fancy high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic food spots, this comparison will guide you to your new go-to eateries.
| Durham | Lancaster | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Baracoa Cuban Restaurant | Offers a fusion of flavors reminiscent of tapas style dining. |
| Pizzeria Toro | Giannini Bistro & Grill | Handcrafted pizzas and a cozy atmosphere. |
| NanaSteak | The Lemon Leaf Cafe | Upscale dining with a diverse menu that mirrors the quality of NanaSteak. |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | Kinetic Brewing Company | Burgers and craft beer with a focus on quality and community. |
| Durham Food Hall | The BLVD | A mix of local food vendors and craft beverages. |
| Joe Van Gogh | Sagebrush Cafe | A coffee shop with a strong local feel and excellent brews. |
| M Sushi | Sakura Buffet | Though more of a buffet style, it offers high-quality sushi options. |
| Toast | Olives Mediterranean Café | Casual place with a Mediterranean flair similar to Toast's approach. |
| Elmo's Diner | Norma's Country Oven | Offers a homey diner feel with a variety of classic American dishes. |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Double D Cup Coffee & Teas | Though more focused on beverages, it has a unique charm and bakery selections. |
When exploring Lancaster, California's dining scene, you'll find places like Baracoa Cuban Restaurant and Kinetic Brewing Company that provide atmospheres and menus reminiscent of your Durham favorites. For instance, Mateo Bar de Tapas and Baracoa Cuban Restaurant both offer a lively setting for indulging in small plates bursting with flavor, perfect for social dining experiences. Meanwhile, those missing the handcrafted burgers and brews from Bull City Burger can find solace in Kinetic Brewing Company's dedication to quality ingredients and local brews. These Lancaster alternatives not only offer a taste of Durham but also showcase the unique culinary flair of your new home, making the transition an exciting culinary adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Lancaster Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition between Durham, NC and Lancaster, CA . This comparison aims to highlight the important aspects of housing in both cities to assist in your decision-making.
| Comparison | Durham | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Modern, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to universities | Desert landscapes, energy-efficient homes |
In comparing Durham and Lancaster, notable differences exist in housing costs, styles, and liveability aspects. Durham offers a blend of Colonial and Craftsman architecture, with many homes boasting spacious yards, hinting at a more traditional, community-focused lifestyle. Proximity to esteemed universities like Duke adds to Durham’s allure. Conversely, Lancaster’s Modern and Ranch-style homes, nestled within the Mojave Desert, place a significant emphasis on energy efficiency and desert landscaping. This could be particularly appealing if you're interested in sustainable living. Despite Lancaster being more walkable and bikeable, Durham’s urban lifestyle score reveals a vibrant city life, possibly due to its collegiate connections and diverse cultural offerings.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lancaster, CA
1. West Lancaster: Home to several spacious parks, including Prime Desert Woodland Preserve, West Lancaster offers abundant walking trails and natural areas for you and your pets to explore.
2. Rancho Vista: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Rancho Vista provides plenty of green spaces and dog parks, like the popular Apollo Community Regional Park, for pet owners to enjoy outdoor activities.
3. Quartz Hill: A quiet, suburban neighborhood with a tight-knit community vibe, Quartz Hill offers easy access to pet services and outdoor spaces suitable for pets, including the dog-friendly George Lane Park.
Durham vs. Lancaster Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the weather in Durham, NC compares to Lancaster, CA is crucial. This comparison helps you prepare for changes and adapt more easily to your new environment. The charts below show key weather differences you should expect.
Durham, NC
Lancaster, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Lancaster, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Lancaster, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Lancaster, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Durham to Lancaster involves a significant shift in climate and weather conditions. Lancaster boasts far more days of sunshine and significantly lower humidity levels compared to Durham, which means drier air and potentially more comfortable summers despite the higher temperatures. However, Lancaster's desert climate comes with its own unique challenges such as higher average UV indexes and the risk of wildfires. Anticipating these differences allows for a smoother transition and better preparation for seasonal extremes.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Lancaster
When planning a move from Durham, NC to Lancaster, CA, it's crucial to understand how the finances will differ. This comparison offers insights into the economic climate you're moving into. Durham and Lancaster are two cities with distinct financial landscapes, from the average household income to the cost of living and taxes. Knowing these differences can help you prepare for your relocation.
| Comparison | Durham | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $64,242 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.85 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Biotechnology | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Less affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
Diving into the finances, you'll find Durham offers a higher average household income and a lower cost of living compared to Lancaster, which could significantly affect your budgeting. The discrepancy in state income and sales tax rates between North Carolina and California will also impact your net income and expenditure. For instance, despite a higher average property tax percentage in Durham, the overall tax burden may be more felt in Lancaster due to its higher state income tax. These variations highlight the importance of considering not just the cost of living, but also the broader financial environment when relocating.
Durham vs. Lancaster Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Durham, NC, to Lancaster, CA? Understanding the social landscape of your future home is essential. This quick comparison provides insight into the political and religious makeup of Durham & Lancaster , offering a glimpse into the communities you'll be transitioning between.
| Durham | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Conservative-leaning |
| Local Politics | Democratically led | Mixed, with a lean towards Republican leadership in recent elections |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious presence | Christianity predominant, yet with a significant non-religious community |
In Durham, you might find a vibrant, politically active community that leans liberal, particularly reflected in the city's Democratic leadership. It's a city where various faiths coexist, though Christianity plays a central role in community life. Moving to Lancaster introduces you to a more conservative-leaning environment, both socially and politically. Lancaster has seen a mix of political leadership, but recent trends show a slight lean towards Republican influences. Despite Christianity's predominance in both cities, Lancaster hosts a larger non-religious demographic, highlighting its diverse belief systems. This cultural and political shift is something to consider as you plan your move.
Durham vs. Lancaster Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving to a new city. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Lancaster aims to prepare you for the differences you'll encounter in your daily travels in these two cities.
| Comparison | Durham | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
While the average commute time in Durham is shorter than in Lancaster, it's interesting to note the difference in traffic congestion levels, with Durham experiencing a moderate amount while Lancaster enjoys a more relaxed traffic scenario. However, where Durham has a slight edge is in the availability of public transit, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car compared to Lancaster where the sparse public transportation options make car dependency higher. This is crucial to consider for your daily commute and general mobility around the city, impacting your lifestyle and possibly your decision on where to live within the city.
Additional Resources
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