Best Charlotte to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charlotte to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 168 mile long distance North Carolina move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 170 Charlotte to Raleigh 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 Dogwood Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charlotte compared to Raleigh. 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.

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Best Charlotte to Raleigh Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Dogwood Moving Co.9.829.77Contact
2Reign Moving Solutions9.609.62Contact
3Gentle Giant Moving Company9.428.96Contact
4Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6Contact
5Hornet Moving9.419.47Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Charlotte to Raleigh

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 168 miles from Charlotte, NC to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $1,635 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charlotte to Raleigh move is roughly $3,904. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,103300 ft³3.68
1 Bedroom$1,635450 ft³3.63
2 Bedrooms$2,694750 ft³3.59
3 Bedrooms$3,9041100 ft³3.55
4 Bedrooms$5,6111600 ft³3.51
5+ Bedrooms$6,2361800 ft³3.46
*Please note: These North Carolina to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & North Carolina. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed NC to NC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Charlotte guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charlotte to Raleigh Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Dogwood Moving Co. Logo

Dogwood Moving Co.

Exceptional9.82/10
based on 4,653+ data points

6192 Beale Loop

Raleigh, NC, 27616

About Dogwood Moving Co.

Dogwood is a new local moving company that started in 2020 and serves as one of the movers in Raleigh, NC....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3376522 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers16
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Reign Moving Solutions Logo

Reign Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 797+ data points

Rock Hill, SC

About Reign Moving Solutions

Reign Moving Solutions is a family owned and operated moving company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They have been in business...

Services

  • Packing & Unpacking
  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/8/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3524609 / 1171156

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2020)
View Full Review
2
Gentle Giant Moving Company Logo

Gentle Giant Moving Company

Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,731+ data points

3827 Barringer Dr

Charlotte, NC, 28217

About Gentle Giant Moving Company

Gentle Giant Moving Company was founded in 1980, and today has locations across the US, including one in North Carolina. Serving...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services
View Full Review
3
Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.42/10
based on 954+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Hornet Moving Logo

Hornet Moving

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 7,558+ data points

920 W Craighead Rd

Charlotte, NC, 28206

About Hornet Moving

This family-owned moving company is based in Charlotte, NC, and prides itself on its professional and skilled employees, high-quality service, and...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Commercial moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2841083 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans24
Registered Drivers23
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
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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.

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

Whether you're moving for a new job or just a change of scenery, transitioning from one city to another can feel daunting. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison that highlights the similarities between Charlotte, NC & Raleigh, NC neighborhoods, making it easier to find your new favorite spot in an unfamiliar city. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with the new surroundings by drawing upon what you already know and love.

CharlotteRaleighHow They're Similar
South EndGlenwood SouthVibrant nightlife and dining
DilworthFive PointsHistoric homes and family-friendly vibe
Myers ParkCameron VillageUpscale living with nearby shopping
Plaza MidwoodOakwoodEclectic mix of art and historic charm
NoDaWarehouse DistrictArtsy and rich in cultural experiences
UptownDowntown RaleighUrban center with entertainment and parks
ElizabethMordecaiQuiet, historic, with a strong sense of community
BallantyneNorth HillsModern amenities and family-oriented
BerryhillBrier CreekSuburban convenience, great for families
WilmoreBoylan HeightsClose-knit community with historic appeal

In comparing Charlotte's vibrant South End to Raleigh's Glenwood South, both neighborhoods boast an array of dining and nightlife options that cater to young professionals and social butterflies alike. For a quieter, more family-oriented atmosphere, Dilworth's charming bungalows and spacious parks resemble Raleigh's Five Points area, known for its historic homes and walkability. If you're drawn to the artsy and eclectic vibe of NoDa with its galleries, live music venues, and casual eateries, the Warehouse District in Raleigh will feel just as appealing, featuring similar cultural experiences, such as the Dorothea Dix Park for outdoor events and the Contemporary Art Museum for art enthusiasts. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll through Myers Park, admiring the century-old trees and upscale homes, or exploring Cameron Village in Raleigh, with its boutique shopping and fine dining options, these comparisons are designed to make your transition smoother by connecting you with neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and interests.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charlotte to Raleigh

Moving is a significant life change, and weighing the pros and cons between Charlotte, NC and Raleigh, NC will help ensure you're making the right decision. This comparison aims to reflect honestly the benefits and drawbacks of relocating from Charlotte to Raleigh, offering a balanced perspective on this potential life change.

CONs
PROs
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Higher traffic
  • Costlier housing
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Smaller green spaces
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Less congestion
  • More affordable homes
  • Robust tech scene
  • Larger parks
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Quieter evenings
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Lesser transit options
  • Fewer restaurants
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Lively nightlife
  • Bigger city feel
  • Extensive public transit
  • Diverse culinary scene

Seeing the transition from Charlotte's vibrant, bustling environment to Raleigh's quieter, more laid-back atmosphere can be both exciting and challenging. In Raleigh, you may miss the dynamic nightlife of areas like Uptown Charlotte, but you'll find solace in the sprawling greenery of Pullen Park and the Umstead State Park — a stark contrast to the smaller parks in Charlotte. The tech scene in Raleigh, particularly within the Research Triangle Park, offers ample opportunities unlike Charlotte's more diversified economy. Restaurants like Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh offer a unique experience that, while different, is just as enriching as Charlotte's culinary scene. This move can signify a change in lifestyle — from a fast-paced city life to a quieter setting rich with opportunities to connect with nature and immerse yourself in a burgeoning tech community.

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Charlotte & Raleigh is key for anyone relocating. Food significantly impacts the local culture and living experience. By comparing these two cities, you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home.

CharlotteRaleigh
Most iconic local food itemCarolina BBQPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular meat dishFried ChickenEastern NC Barbecue
Most popular street food itemPimento CheeseburgerHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodVegan Soul FoodVegan Barbecue
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Price's Chicken Coop
  • Midwood Smokehouse
  • The Fig Tree Restaurant
  • Clyde Cooper's BBQ
  • Poole's Diner
  • The Fiction Kitchen
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Charlotte, the food scene is rich with history, especially known for Carolina BBQ, a must-try for anyone moving to the area. South End and NoDa neighborhoods are bustling with culinary activity, where food trucks and innovative restaurants abound. In contrast, Raleigh offers a unique blend of Southern classics and modern vegan dishes, reflecting its high foodie scene score. The Warehouse District and Fayetteville Street are hotspots for food lovers, featuring venues like The Fiction Kitchen, where the vegan barbecue astonishes both locals and newcomers alike.

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

As you transition from Charlotte to Raleigh, finding your new go-to restaurants is key to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between Charlotte and Raleigh will guide you to local eateries that mirror your Charlotte favorites, ensuring a seamless culinary transition.

CharlotteRaleighWhat You'll Love
Carpe Diem RestaurantBida MandaBoth offer a fine dining experience with unique, elegantly presented dishes.
Price's Chicken CoopBeasley’s Chicken + HoneyBoth specialize in delicious, Southern-style fried chicken.
Good Food on MontfordGarlandBoth are known for inventive small plates in a cozy, intimate setting.
Midwood SmokehouseThe PitBoth provide a classic barbecue experience with a focus on smoked meats.
Soul GastroloungeBrewery BhavanaBoth blend a trendy atmosphere with innovative, fusion dishes.
The Fig Tree RestaurantSecond EmpireBoth offer a refined dining experience in historic, charming settings.
Mama Ricotta'sGravyBoth serve hearty, traditional Italian dishes that comfort and delight.
Leah & LouisePoole’s DinerBoth are celebrated for their modern takes on classic Southern fare.
Optimist HallMorgan Street Food HallBoth are food halls offering a wide variety of cuisines and communal dining.
Halcyon, Flavors from the EarthMandolinBoth are praised for their farm-to-table approach, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

When exploring these Raleigh counterparts, you'll discover not just similarities in the cuisine but also the ethos that defines each establishment. Garland in Raleigh, akin to Good Food on Montford, is celebrated for its creative dishes that reflect a global influence, offering a culinary adventure in each bite. Similarly, The Pit provides a quintessential barbecue experience reminiscent of Midwood Smokehouse, highlighting the rich, smoky flavors North Carolina is renowned for. These establishments do more than just serve food; they offer experiences that echo the familiar comfort and quality of your Charlotte favorites, ensuring you'll never miss out on the flavors you've grown to love.

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Ready to start your move?

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, it's crucial to weigh the real estate landscape of your potential new home. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities between Charlotte, NC , and Raleigh, NC , in terms of housing , making your decision process smoother and more informed.

ComparisonCharlotteRaleigh
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalModernist
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, Granite countertopsEnergy-efficient features, Hardwood floors

The housing markets in Charlotte and Raleigh both cater to a variety of tastes, reflecting the cities' diverse characteristics. Charlotte's real estate listings often highlight open floor plans and granite countertops, appealing to those who favor a more traditional yet refined style. Raleigh, on the other hand, tends to emphasize modernist architecture with a nod to sustainability through energy-efficient features. Walkability and bikeability are slightly higher in Raleigh, suggesting a marginally more urban lifestyle than Charlotte. This, combined with a slightly higher median home price and rent in Raleigh, indicates a bustling city life that many newcomers find appealing. Whether you're drawn to Charlotte's charm or Raleigh's vibrancy, both cities offer compelling reasons to make them your new home.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC

1. North Hills: With an abundance of pet-friendly shops and an expansive park, your pet will love the outdoor activities available.

2. Boylan Heights: This neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly community atmosphere and easy access to Dorothea Dix Park, a popular spot for dog walks and community gatherings.

3. Five Points: You and your pet will enjoy walking through the historical streets and visiting local pet-friendly businesses, including several cafes and eateries that welcome furry friends.

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Charlotte, NC, to Raleigh, NC, understanding the differences in weather can be crucial for a smooth transition. Knowing how the climate varies will help you prepare for your new home. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Charlotte and Raleigh, focusing on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and more.

Summer icon
89/67

Charlotte, NC

89/68

Raleigh, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/30

Charlotte, NC

52/32

Raleigh, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.63

Charlotte, NC

42.51

Raleigh, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
2

Charlotte, NC

4

Raleigh, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCharlotteRaleigh
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, StormsHurricanes, Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Although the average summer and winter temperatures in Charlotte and Raleigh are quite similar, Raleigh experiences slightly higher annual humidity and rainfall. This difference might affect your daily comfort and activities, especially if you're sensitive to humidity or enjoy outdoor activities. The slightly greater annual snowfall in Raleigh could also mean a bit more winter weather preparation. It's also worth noting the air quality difference; while Charlotte boasts good air quality, Raleigh's air quality is considered moderate, which might be a consideration for those with respiratory issues.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charlotte to Raleigh

Moving between cities is a substantial life change, especially when considering financial aspects. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in money and finance between Charlotte, NC, and Raleigh, NC, helping you grasp how your cost of living and financial landscape might shift.

ComparisonCharlotteRaleigh
Avg. Household Income$70,869$74,612
Cost of Living Index93.298.2
State Income Tax5.255.25
Avg. Property Tax1.020.86
Avg. Sales Tax7.257.25
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Airlines, TechnologyTechnology, Education, Healthcare
AffluenceModerately affluentHighly affluent
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessNoticeableLess noticeable

Moving from Charlotte to Raleigh, you'll find differences in average household incomes and the cost of living index, with Raleigh presenting as slightly more affluent on average. This is supported by Raleigh having a higher average household income and a cost of living index that reflects its strong technological and educational sectors. Despite these financial nuances, state income and average sales tax rates remain consistent across both cities, owing to statewide policies. However, it's worth noting the variance in property taxes, which are lower in Raleigh, potentially offering savings for homeowners. Understanding these differences will equip you with a clearer picture of the economic landscape you're moving into.

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Charlotte to Raleigh? A quick glance into the comparison of the politics between Charlotte & Raleigh will provide insight into the political and religious makeup of these vibrant cities. This snapshot aims to assist you in understanding the community you're planning to call home.

CharlotteRaleigh
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on urban policiesModerately progressive
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Protestant presence Local ChurchesDiverse, with a strong representation of various faiths Local Faith Communities

While both Charlotte and Raleigh lean Democratic in their political makeup, there are subtle differences in local politics and religious diversity that might influence your decision. Charlotte is known for its progressive urban policies, appealing to those seeking a vibrant, forward-thinking community. Raleigh, while also moderately progressive, offers a slightly different cultural vibe with a strong representation of various faiths, reflecting its diverse community. Engaging with local religious institutions, like Charlotte Churches or Raleigh Faith Communities, can provide you with a deeper understanding and connection to your new city.

Charlotte vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like , this section offers a comparison of Charlotte & Raleigh . By examining the differences in driving and transiting options, you can prepare for what awaits in your new city.

ComparisonCharlotteRaleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2425
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingDifficult

Moving from Charlotte to Raleigh, you'll find slight differences in commute times and traffic congestion. Charlotte’s average commute time is just a minute shorter than Raleigh's, yet it experiences a bit more traffic congestion. Public transit is more accessible in Charlotte, with services like the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offering bus and light rail options. In contrast, Raleigh's public transit, served by GoRaleigh, is less pervasive, making it somewhat more challenging to navigate the city without a car. Understanding these dynamics can help you plan your daily commute more effectively in your new city.

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