Best Durham to Palmdale Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Durham to Palmdale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,486 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Durham to Palmdale 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 Best California Movers), 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 Palmdale. 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 Palmdale Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Gentlemen's Moving Company | 8.95 | 9.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Durham to Palmdale
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,486 miles from Durham, NC to Palmdale, CA will cost on average $3,895 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Palmdale move is roughly $9,412. 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 | $2,612 | 300 ft³ | 8.71 |
1 Bedroom | $3,895 | 450 ft³ | 8.66 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,455 | 750 ft³ | 8.61 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,412 | 1100 ft³ | 8.56 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,610 | 1600 ft³ | 8.51 |
5+ Bedrooms | $15,221 | 1800 ft³ | 8.46 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Palmdale to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham to Palmdale Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
Registered Drivers | 12 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |

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

6601 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) |

Gentlemen's Moving Company
8977 Glenoaks Blvd
Sun Valley, CA, 91352
About Gentlemen's Moving Company
Looking to move an entire house, just a few pieces, or even just need an extra pair of hands to help...
Services
- Local Moves
- Cross Country Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2399435 / 825232 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 102,479 (2023) |

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. Palmdale Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially if you're not familiar with your new home's local areas. That's why we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Palmdale, CA to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home. Using Durham's top neighborhoods as a baseline, we've matched them with the most similar neighborhoods in Palmdale, considering factors like vibe, amenities, and community feel.
Durham | Palmdale | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Trinity Park | Anaverde | Family-friendly, close community vibe |
Old West Durham | Rancho Vista | Vibrant, with local shopping options |
Woodcroft | West Palmdale | Suburban with extensive parks |
Hope Valley | Quartz Hill | Quiet, upscale residential area |
Trinity Heights | Desert View Highlands | Community-centered with a historic touch |
Brightleaf | Palmdale East | Growing area with new developments |
American Village | Sun Village | Relaxed, with a quaint local feel |
Duke Park | Lake Los Angeles | Unique, with natural attractions |
Southpoint | Palmdale Estates | Rich in amenities, shopping, and dining |
Treyburn | Leona Valley | Rural, with spacious properties and scenic views |
By exploring these neighborhoods, you allow yourself to imagine life in Palmdale. The close-knit community and family-friendly atmosphere of Anaverde mirror the qualities of Durham's Trinity Park. If you cherished the vibrant local shopping and eateries in Old West Durham, then Rancho Vista's bustling streets and local businesses, such as Rancho Vista Village Shopping Center, will certainly resonate with you. For those drawn to Woodcroft's suburban charm and parks, West Palmdale offers a similar environment with recreational spots like George Lane Park, ensuring a seamless transition into your new community without sacrificing the lifestyle you love.

Things to Do in Palmdale
- Explore Joe Davies Heritage Airpark
- Hike in the Angeles National Forest
- Attend Palmdale Amphitheater events
- Visit the DryTown Water Park
- Enjoy shopping at Antelope Valley Mall
- Tour the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Watch a movie at Cinemark at Antelope Valley Mall
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Palmdale
Moving from one city to another can be a major life change, laden with both excitement and apprehension. To help navigate this journey, we provide a fair comparison of the challenges and benefits of relocating from Durham, NC to Palmdale, CA. By assessing both sides, you're better prepared to weigh your options and make an informed decision.
- Higher humidity
- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer outdoor adventures
- Limited cultural diversity
- Drier climate
- Larger urban area
- Proximity to nature
- Greater cultural mix
- Possible overcrowding
- Fewer historic landmarks
- Higher cost of living
- More arid landscape
- Cozy community feel
- Rich historical sites
- Lower cost of living
- Lush green spaces
When considering your relocation from Durham, NC to Palmdale, CA, it's worth delving into the unique offerings and challenges each city presents. For instance, the change from Durham’s higher humidity to Palmdale’s drier climate could be a welcome shift for some, promising more comfortable outdoor activities in the vast beauty of nearby natural reserves like the Angeles National Forest. Palmdale also boasts a vibrant mix of cultures, reflected in its diverse restaurants and festivals, offering an enriching urban living experience. On the flip side, you might miss Durham’s cozy community feel, where spots like Sarah P. Duke Gardens offer lush, tranquil escapes and the American Tobacco Historic District ties you to the city's rich past. Both cities have their merits, whether it's the lower cost of living and green spaces in Durham or the proximity to nature and greater cultural diversity in Palmdale. Reflecting on what you most value can help steer your decision toward the best new home for you.
Durham vs. Palmdale Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of your future home is crucial, as food is an important part of local culture and living experience. This guide will compare the local cuisine between Durham & Palmdale so you can be better informed about what culinary delights await you in your new city.
Durham | Palmdale | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | North Carolina barbecue | Avocado dishes |
Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork | Carne asada |
Most popular street food item | Hot dogs | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ jackfruit | Vegan tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Durham to Palmdale, you’ll notice distinct shifts in the food scene. Durham, with its deep roots in North Carolina barbecue, is a haven for lovers of pulled pork and BBQ jackfruit, a popular vegan option. Places like Poole's Diner and Fullsteam Brewery exemplify the city's rich culinary diversity. On the other hand, Palmdale offers a different palette, embracing the avocados grown in California and a wide variety of Mexican cuisine, including the widely beloved carne asada and tacos. Notably, vegan options like vegan tacos abound, indicative of California's health-conscious approach to dining. Restaurants like the Broken Bit Steakhouse offer a taste of local flavors, making Palmdale an intriguing culinary adventure for newcomers.
Durham vs. Palmdale Restaurant Comparison
Relocating to a new city can feel like a jump into the unknown, especially for food enthusiasts. Understanding the importance of discovering new favorite spots to dine, this comparison serves as a culinary compass. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Durham, NC, to Palmdale, CA, by aligning the top dining experiences of your current locale with those awaiting you in your new home.
Durham | Palmdale | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
NanaSteak | The Broken Bit Steakhouse | Offers high-quality steak dining experiences similar to NanaSteak |
Pizzeria Toro | Baracoa Cuban Restaurant | Though more Cuban than Italian, the emphasis on flavorful, crafted meals mirrors Pizzeria Toro's quality. |
Mateo Bar de Tapas | Yard House | With a broad menu that includes tapas-style dishes, providing a similarly varied dining experience. |
Scratch Kitchen and Taproom | Lee Esther's Creole and Cajun Cooking | A focus on hearty, Southern-inspired dishes makes this a close counterpart. |
Durham Food Hall | Bravery Brewing | Not a direct comparison as a brewery, but offers a variety of local food trucks and vendors regularly, similar to a food hall atmosphere. |
Bull City Burger and Brewery | Lucky Luke Brewpub | Offers gourmet burgers and house-made beers, reflecting Bull City's essence. |
Joe Van Gogh | Butler's Coffee | Both are beloved local coffee shops focusing on quality brews and community. |
Elmo's Diner | Norma's Country Dreams | Serving up hearty, homestyle meals that resonate with Elmo's Diner comfort food. |
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Restaurant | Julian Cafe | Offers a European-style cafe experience with quality baked goods and meals, akin to Guglhupf's charm. |
The Parlour | Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard | While focusing more on frozen treats, Rita’s still captures the artisanal spirit of The Parlour. |
When exploring the culinary scene in Palmdale, you're bound to find places that evoke the familiar flavors and aromas of Durham, albeit with a local twist. Lee Esther's Creole and Cajun Cooking, for example, promises a dive into Southern cuisine, reminiscent of Scratch Kitchen and Taproom’s approach to comfort food, with each dish boasting deep, home-cooked flavors. Similarly, stepping into Butler's Coffee, you'll discover a community-centric atmosphere where every sip reflects the dedication seen in establishments like Joe Van Gogh. This direct linkage not only eases the transition but enriches your dining experience by blending the essence of Durham's cherished eateries with Palmdale’s own unique flair.

Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Palmdale Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's crucial to compare the real estate market between your current and future homes. Durham, NC, and Palmdale, CA , embody distinct housing landscapes. This comparison aims to highlight those differences and help you navigate your transition seamlessly.
Comparison | Durham | Palmdale |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Modern and Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, proximity to research triangle | Mountain views, spacious floor plans |
The dynamics of the housing market in Durham, NC, and Palmdale, CA, exhibit notable differences that could impact your living experience. Durham offers a more affordable housing market with median home prices and rent lower than in Palmdale. However, Palmdale outstrips Durham in terms of walkability and bikeability, making it more appealing for those who prefer less reliance on a car. Furthermore, the architectural style varies significantly between the two, with Durham favoring Colonial Revival homes while Palmdale leans towards modern and ranch-style homes, often boasting mountain views and spacious layouts - aspects highly emphasized in local real estate listings. These differences embody the unique lifestyle each city offers, catering to a diverse range of preferences and needs.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Palmdale, CA
1. Rancho Vista: Known for its spacious parks and pet-friendly walking trails, making it a perfect neighborhood for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. West Palmdale: Offers a variety of pet-friendly dining options and has easy access to the Joe Davies Heritage Airpark for a unique outdoor experience with your pets.
3. Anaverde: Features a tight-knit community with an emphasis on outdoor living, including several community parks and easy access to walking trails that are perfect for dogs.
Durham vs. Palmdale Weather Considerations
When transitioning from Durham, NC to Palmdale, CA, it's crucial to understand the climatic differences awaiting you. This comparison aims to highlight the variation in weather you will experience, ensuring Durham and Palmdale's unique conditions are well-understood. By knowing these differences, you can prepare better for your new environment.
Durham, NC
Palmdale, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Palmdale, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Palmdale, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Palmdale, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Durham | Palmdale |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, storms | Earthquakes, wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Durham to Palmdale, you'll notice significant weather changes, particularly in temperature and humidity. In Palmdale, expect hotter summers and slightly cooler winters, accompanied by a remarkable increase in sunny days annually. Moreover, the drastic drop in humidity from Durham's 70% to Palmdale's 30% will require some adjustments in your daily hydration and skin care routines. Additionally, the types of natural disasters differ, with Palmdale being prone to earthquakes and wildfires. Adapting to these changes will be essential for a comfortable living experience in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Palmdale
When moving from one city to another, comparing the financial landscape can be crucial. Understanding how Durham and Palmdale differ in terms of cost of living, taxes, and income will help you grasp what to expect. This comparison aims to illuminate the key money and finance aspects you'll encounter transitioning from Durham, NC to Palmdale, CA .
Comparison | Durham | Palmdale |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $73,417 |
Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.78 | 0.73 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 9.5 |
Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Biotechnology | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Retail |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to high |
Poverty | Moderate | High |
Homelessness | Moderate | High |
The cost of living in Palmdale, CA is significantly higher than in Durham, NC, primarily due to the state's overall expensive lifestyle and housing market. However, both cities showcase moderate levels of affluence with slight differences in income. The disparity in state income tax rates indicates you would retain less of your paycheck in California. Additionally, while both cities have robust economic sectors, the industries vary greatly, from Durham's focus on education and biotechnology to Palmdale's emphasis on aerospace and manufacturing. This shift could influence your job prospects and requires careful consideration. Understanding these nuances will better prepare you for the financial adjustments needed when relocating.
Durham vs. Palmdale Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Durham, NC, to Palmdale, CA? It’s essential to glimpse at the comparison of the politics and religion between Durham & Palmdale to understand the cultural backdrop you’ll be transitioning into. This side-by-side comparison provides a quick insight into the political leanings and religious landscape of both cities.
Durham | Palmdale | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democrat | Mix, with a lean toward Democrat |
Local Politics | Progressive policies | Centrist with some progressive policies |
Religion | Christianity dominant, with diverse religious presence | Christianity dominant, with growing diversity |
Diving deeper into the comparison, Durham is known for its strong lean towards Democrat with a significant emphasis on progressive policies, reflecting the city's vibrant, diverse cultural scene. Religion there is predominantly Christian, though you'll find a mosaic of beliefs. Palmdale shares a similar political alignment but with a centrist approach. Its religious landscape is also primarily Christian but is experiencing growing diversity, mirroring the city's changing demographics. Understanding these aspects can help ease the transition, allowing you to integrate more smoothly into your new community.
Durham vs. Palmdale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Are you considering a move from Durham, NC, to Palmdale, CA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Palmdale will help you better understand what to expect in terms of your daily commute and traffic. Whether you're used to breezy drives or jostling for space on public transit, this guide is for you.
Comparison | Durham | Palmdale |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with effort | Challenging |
While the average commute time in Palmdale is longer by a few minutes compared to Durham, both cities face their own unique set of challenges when it comes to traffic and transportation. In Durham, there is a moderate level of traffic congestion, and the availability of public transit scores a medium rating, making it feasible, though sometimes inconvenient, to get by without a car. In contrast, Palmdale scores lower in terms of public transit availability, making it more challenging to live there without having access to a car. This highlights the importance of owning a vehicle in Palmdale for a smoother daily commute, whereas in Durham, you might manage with a combination of public transit and occasional ridesharing.



Additional Resources
Durham Moving Services
Popular Durham to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources