Best Cary to Tampa Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Cary to Tampa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 662 mile move from North Carolina to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Cary to Tampa 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 $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Cary compared to Tampa. 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 Cary to Tampa 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 | Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Cary to Tampa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 662 miles from Cary, NC to Tampa, FL will cost on average $1,993 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cary to Tampa move is roughly $4,777. 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 | $1,341 | 300 ft³ | 4.47 |
1 Bedroom | $1,993 | 450 ft³ | 4.43 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,289 | 750 ft³ | 4.39 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,777 | 1100 ft³ | 4.34 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,881 | 1600 ft³ | 4.30 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,664 | 1800 ft³ | 4.26 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to Cary guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cary to Tampa 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

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) |

Let's Get Moving
6599 Haines Rd N
St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2270761 / 775415 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,000 (2023) |

Two Men and a Truck
2549 Seven Springs Blvd
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 13 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (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.
Cary vs. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can feel like stepping into a different world, but familiarizing yourself with similar neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. This guide compares popular neighborhoods between Cary, NC & Tampa, FL , offering a glimpse into how your current locale matches up with your future home. By understanding the parallels, you can more easily find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
Cary | Tampa | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Preston | Hyde Park | Historic homes, walkable streets |
Lochmere | Ballast Point | Community-oriented, waterfront activities |
Amberly | Westchase | Family-friendly, ample green spaces |
Cary Park | Carrollwood | Suburban feel, active community |
Regency | Palma Ceia | Upscale, near golf courses |
MacGregor Downs | Davis Islands | Exclusive, waterfront views |
Wellington Park | Forest Hills | Quiet, established neighborhood |
Highcroft | New Tampa | Modern homes, nature preserves |
Stonebridge | Temple Terrace | Academic community, diverse |
Green Hope Crossing | Channelside | Vibrant, urban living |
For those moving from Cary to Tampa and seeking a neighborhood with an emphasis on historic charm and walkable streets, Hyde Park is your go-to, mirroring the appeal of Preston with its well-preserved homes and local boutiques. If waterfront living and a tight-knit community are what you cherish in Lochmere, Ballast Point offers similar vibes, with access to boating and stunning bay views. For an area that balances suburban comfort with an engaged, active community, Carrollwood is Tampa's answer to Cary Park, boasting ample parks and recreation facilities that foster a sense of belonging. Lastly, nature lovers drawn to the green spaces and trails of Amberly will find Westchase's family-oriented living and environmental stewardship equally compelling. Each Tampa neighborhood promises its own unique flair, cafes like those at Oxford Exchange in Hyde Park offer a cozy atmosphere for both work and relaxation, resembling the quaint vibes found in Cary's coffee shops.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Cary to Tampa
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Cary, NC, to Tampa, FL. The purpose of the charts is to outline the pros and cons of such a move, enabling you to make an informed decision.
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
- Colder winters
- Fewer beaches
- Lower nightlife scene
- Larger city amenities
- More food variety
- Warmer climate
- Beach access
- Vibrant nightlife
- Busier streets
- Less communal feel
- Potentially higher crime
- Fewer parks per capita
- Higher humidity
- Quiet suburban life
- Close-knit community
- Low crime rates
- Ample green spaces
- Lower humidity
Moving from Cary, NC to Tampa, FL introduces you to a vibrant city alive with diverse cuisine options such as Bern's Steak House, famous for its extensive wine collection, or the Cuban delicacies at Columbia Restaurant in historic Ybor City. While embracing the warmer climate and beach access Tampa offers, it's essential to note the change in lifestyle. Tampa's Bayshore Boulevard provides an excellent outdoor space for jogging or walking with picturesque views not found in Cary. However, while the sense of community in Cary's parks, such as the spacious Fred G. Bond Metro Park, might feel more tight-knit, Tampa counters with vibrant city life and dynamic neighborhoods like Hyde Park, offering sophisticated shopping and dining experiences. Adjusting to these changes can be monumental, but the promise of new adventures in Tampa makes the journey worthwhile.
Cary vs. Tampa Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Cary & Tampa explores the dynamic and delicious food scenes of both cities. Understanding the culinary landscape is essential as food plays a vital role in the local culture and lifestyle. This guide will help you get a taste of what to expect in your new home.
Cary | Tampa | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Cuban Sandwich |
Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Deviled Crab |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Empanadas |
Most popular vegan food | Kale Salad | Black Bean Burger |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Tampa, you'll find a rich food scene influenced by its diverse cultural heritage, most notably seen in the iconic Cuban sandwich, a must-try for any newcomer. Ybor City and South Tampa are neighborhoods where the culinary scene thrives, offering a variety of dining experiences, from street food like empanadas to upscale dining at places like Bern's Steak House or Columbia Restaurant. The city's high scores in foodie scene, abundance of food trucks, and vegan-friendly options reflect Tampa's dynamic and inclusive food culture. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Ybor City or enjoying the waterfront views, you'll find that Tampa's local cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and traditions.
Cary vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison
Finding the perfect place to dine can make any area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Cary and Tampa aims to help you discover your new favorite spots, using your fond dining experiences in Cary as a guide. Whether you're craving fine dining or a casual bite, this guide will make the transition tastier.
Cary | Tampa | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Oxford Exchange | Contemporary American cuisine with a unique bookstore and gift shop ambiance |
La Farm Bakery | Pane Rustica | Artisanal bakery and café offering European-style breads and pastries |
CineBistro | Tampa Theatre & Teatro | Historic theatre with a dining experience for a unique night out |
Bosphorus Turkish Cuisine | Byblos Tampa | Authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese dishes with a modern twist |
Brewery Bhavana | Coppertail Brewing Co. | Craft brewery with a creative and diverse food menu |
Tazza Kitchen Stone Creek Village | Ulele | Indigenous-inspired dishes and seafood with a vibrant, rustic setting |
Herons | Bern's Steak House | High-end dining with an extensive wine list and premium steaks |
Pizzeria Faulisi | Eddie & Sam’s N.Y. Pizza | Authentic New York-style pizza in a casual setting |
Tootie's Durham | Fat Rabbit Pub | Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu and local craft beers |
Academy Street Bistro | Rooster & the Till | Modern American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients |
For those who relish the unique combination of shopping with dining, Oxford Exchange in Tampa mirrors the experience found at Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen, but with an added touch of a bookstore and gift shop. If artisanal baked goods are what you crave in the mornings, Pane Rustica in Tampa offers a comparable experience to Cary’s La Farm Bakery, focusing on European-style breads and pastries that promise to start your day right. Meanwhile, fans of a luxurious dining experience coupled with the finest wines will find Bern's Steak House in Tampa an apt comparison to Cary's Herons, known for its sophisticated ambiance and meticulously prepared dishes. These Tampa eateries not only match the quality and ambiance of Cary's favorites but also introduce you to the vibrant local cuisine and culture of your new home.

Ready to start your move?
Cary vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, the landscape of real estate is crucial for a seamless transition. Understanding how Cary, NC and Tampa, FL stack up against each other in terms of housing will illuminate the significant differences and help in making an informed decision.
Comparison | Cary | Tampa |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary | Spanish/Mediterranean |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Waterfront views, Proximity to beaches |
In examining the nuances of housing between Cary and Tampa, a few vital factors emerge. The median home price in Cary is notably higher than in Tampa, reflecting perhaps a different economic landscape. However, Tampa offers a unique allure with its Spanish/Mediterranean architectural style and higher scores in walkability and bikeability, making it an enticing option for those prioritizing an active, urban lifestyle. The charm of Tampa is further underscored by real estate listings frequently mentioning waterfront views and proximity to beaches, a stark contrast to Cary's emphasis on spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods. These differences underline the importance of aligning your housing preferences with the character and amenities of your new city.
Cary vs. Tampa Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires an understanding of many changes, including the weather. Comparing the weather conditions between Cary and Tampa is crucial as it will influence your daily life and activities directly. Understanding how the weather compares will help you better prepare for what lies ahead in your new city.
Cary, NC
Tampa, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Tampa, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Tampa, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cary, NC
Tampa, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Cary | Tampa |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Floods |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Cary, NC to Tampa, FL, expect more sunny days and warmer winters in Tampa. While both cities enjoy warm summers, Tampa's higher humidity and UV index mean it will feel hotter and more intense, making sun protection even more critical. Notably, Tampa's weather includes a higher risk of hurricanes and floods compared to Cary, paralleled with a moderate air quality which could be an essential factor for individuals with respiratory issues. With no snowfall and more annual rainfall, you'll encounter a significant shift in your yearly weather experience, highlighting the need to adapt your lifestyle and home to fit Tampa's sunnier and wetter climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to Tampa
Moving from one location to another greatly affects your finances. This comparison aims to help you understand how the cost of living, taxes, and incomes in Cary stack up against Tampa, ensuring you make an informed decision about your relocation.
Comparison | Cary | Tampa |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $123,857 | $63,404 |
Cost of Living Index | 95.85 | 92.4 |
State Income Tax | 5.25 | 0 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.85 | 0.97 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6.75 | 7 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Tourism, Finance, Healthcare |
Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderately |
Poverty | Low | Higher |
Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
When comparing Cary, NC, to Tampa, FL, it's key to note the distinction in average household incomes—with Cary almost doubling Tampa's figure, an indicator of its more affluent standing. This disparity is further exemplified by the differences in the cost of living index; Cary's higher index implies pricier daily expenses compared to Tampa. However, Florida's lack of state income tax can offset some living costs, making Tampa appealing financially for many. The emphasis on different top industries between the cities reflects their unique economic focuses, potentially affecting job opportunities based on your sector. While Cary boasts a lower poverty and homelessness rate, indicating a generally higher quality of life, Tampa offers its own set of advantages, including no state income tax and a lower cost of living.
Cary vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Cary, NC to Tampa, FL, understanding the comparison of the politics and religious makeup of each city can provide insight into the community you're about to join. This quick snapshot offers a glimpse into the political leanings, local governance, and religious landscape of both cities.
Cary | Tampa | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Moderate to Progressive Policies |
Religion | Christian majority, diverse religious presence | Christian majority, diverse religious presence |
While both Cary and Tampa exhibit a tendency to lean towards Democratic in political makeup, the nuances in their local politics could give you a deeper understanding of what to expect. Cary tends to adopt progressive policies, signaling a community that values forward-thinking approaches to governance. Tampa, while also progressive, shows a blend with moderate views, reflecting the city's historical diversity and its influence on current policies. Religion in both cities, predominantly Christian, showcases a blend of various faiths, underscoring the diverse fabric of each community. This religious and political tapestry will be part of your everyday life, influencing local events, schools, and community initiatives.
Cary vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Cary & Tampa is intended to give you a better understanding of what to expect in your daily commute and traffic scenarios when moving from one city to the other.
Comparison | Cary | Tampa |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 25 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but it's challenging |
In Cary, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Tampa, which can make a noticeable difference in your daily routine. While Cary has lower traffic congestion scores, indicating smoother traffic flow, it also showcases a limitation in the availability of public transit, suggesting a higher dependence on personal vehicles. On the other hand, Tampa offers more accessible public transportation options, making it slightly more feasible to get around without a car, although it still presents challenges. This transition might require adjustments in how you plan your daily commutes, especially if you're reliant on public transit.



Additional Resources
Cary Moving Services
Popular Cary to Florida Routes
Popular Moving Resources