Best Durham to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 26 mile long distance North Carolina move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 161 Durham 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 - $3,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham 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 Durham to Raleigh Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Dogwood Moving Co.9.829.77Contact
2Brightleaf Moving Co.9.499.58Contact
3Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6Contact
4J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer9.389.46Contact
5Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Durham to Raleigh

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 26 miles from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $1,533 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Raleigh move is roughly $3,653. 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$1,035300 ft³3.45
1 Bedroom$1,533450 ft³3.41
2 Bedrooms$2,523750 ft³3.36
3 Bedrooms$3,6531100 ft³3.32
4 Bedrooms$5,2461600 ft³3.28
5+ Bedrooms$5,8251800 ft³3.24
*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 Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham 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
Brightleaf Moving Co. Logo

Brightleaf Moving Co.

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 1,003+ data points

1800 Williamsburg Rd Apt 13L

Durham, NC, 27707

About Brightleaf Moving Co.

Brightleaf Moving Co. is a locally-owned residential and commercial moving company based in Durham, North Carolina, offering local and long-distance services....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3838853 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
2
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
3
J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer Logo

J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer

Exceptional9.38/10
based on 775+ data points

113 N Benjamine St

Durham, NC, 27703

About J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer

J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer is a local family business that provides professional moving services in Durham, Chapel Hill, and the...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Piano moving services
View Full Review
4
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
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.

Durham vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Raleigh, NC . This guide will help you find areas in Raleigh that closely resemble the vibe and community of your favorite Durham spots, making your move a little less intimidating.

DurhamRaleighHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkFive PointsHistoric homes, family-friendly atmosphere
American Tobacco DistrictWarehouse DistrictVibrant nightlife, arts and culture
Duke ParkBoylan HeightsStrong community spirit, historic architecture
BrightleafGlenwood SouthTrendy restaurants, active social scene
Old West DurhamOakwoodDiverse architecture, historic charm
Hope ValleyNorth HillsUpscale shopping, modern living spaces
RockwoodCameron VillageQuiet residential area, convenient amenities
WoodcroftBrier CreekSuburban feel, vast shopping options
SouthpointMidtown RaleighRetail hubs, easy interstate access
Nine StreetsMordecaiQuaint living spaces, close-knit community vibes

For instance, if you're drawn to the historic and family-friendly atmosphere of Trinity Park in Durham, you'll find a similar vibe in Raleigh's Five Points neighborhood, with its historic homes and a strong sense of community. Downtown enthusiasts coming from Durham's vibrant American Tobacco District might feel right at home in Raleigh's Warehouse District, known for its lively nightlife and rich cultural scene. Raleigh is also home to neighborhoods like Glenwood South, resembling Durham's Brightleaf with trendy eateries and an active nightlife. For quiet, residential areas with convenient amenities, the transition from Durham's Rockwood to Raleigh's Cameron Village could be seamless, offering a peaceful environment without sacrificing the perks of city life.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Raleigh

Moving from one city to another is always a blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC . By looking at these carefully selected charts, you'll gain a balanced perspective on how your life might change for better or worse.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller job market
  • Less nightlife
  • Fewer cultural venues
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Larger job market
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • More cultural venues
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • More urban
  • Fewer local shops
  • Less historical depth
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Cozy community feel
  • Quaint local shops
  • Rich history

In both cities, the quality of life is significantly influenced by the local amenities and the community vibe. While Durham boasts a cozy community feel with quaint local shops like Brightleaf District, and a deep historical tapestry exemplified by the Stagville State Historic Site, Raleigh presents a more urban atmosphere, rich with cultural venues such as North Carolina Museum of Art and vibrant nightlife hubs like Raleigh Beer Garden. Each city offers unique opportunities and experiences catering to different preferences and lifestyles. The transition from Durham to Raleigh could open doors to a thriving job market and a more bustling city life, while you might find yourself missing the intimate community and the charm of smaller, locally-owned shops and historical sights that Durham cherishes deeply.

Durham vs. Raleigh Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Raleigh delves into the food culture that's an integral part of living in either city. We aim to equip you with a better understanding of the gastronomic scene you are moving into.

DurhamRaleigh
Most iconic local food itemN/AN/A
Most popular meat dishBBQ PorkBBQ Ribs
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosSeitan BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nana's
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Poole's Diner
  • Bida Manda
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Durham, the local food scene is renowned for its unique BBQ pork, showcased at various eateries across the city, while in Raleigh, BBQ ribs take center stage, with celebrated spots like Poole's Diner offering memorable culinary experiences. Street food enthusiasts moving to Durham will delight in the diversity of food truck offerings, particularly the tacos, which can be savored in bustling locations such as the Durham Food Truck Rodeo. Moreover, both cities cater well to the vegan community, with Durham's jackfruit tacos and Raleigh's seitan BBQ providing delicious plant-based alternatives. Noteworthy restaurants like Nana's in Durham and Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh are emblematic of their respective city's food culture, offering a blend of innovation and tradition that continues to enchant locals and newcomers alike.

Durham vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC, by aligning your culinary preferences . Discover new dining spots in Raleigh that mirror your favorites in Durham, ensuring you don't miss out on flavors you love while exploring your new city.

DurhamRaleighWhat You'll Love
NanaSteakAngus BarnNotable for its high-quality steaks and grand dining experience.
Pizzeria ToroOakwood Pizza BoxAuthentic NY-style pizza offering a similarly cozy, community atmosphere.
Mateo Bar de TapasJose and SonsBlends traditional and new, with a comfort food menu rooted in Mexican cuisine.
Guglhupf Bakery, Café & BiergartenLa Farm BakeryOffers a European café environment with artisan bread and pastries.
Bull City Burger and BreweryTrophy Brewing and PizzaCombines craft beer with exceptional pizza, similar to BCBB's approach.
DashiTonbo RamenProvides an authentic ramen experience with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Saltbox Seafood JointLocals Seafood Market & Oyster BarKnown for fresh, locally-sourced seafood in a casual setting.
Elmo's DinerBig Ed's City Market RestaurantOffers a traditional diner experience with a Southern twist.
Foster's MarketGatherA cozy spot for gourmet sandwiches and salads, with a focus on local ingredients.
The ParlourTwo Roosters Ice CreamHandcrafted ice cream with unique, locally-inspired flavors.

When you find yourself missing Mateo Bar de Tapas' vibrant Spanish dishes, Raleigh's Jose and Sons will whisk your taste buds away with its blend of traditional and innovative Mexican-American cuisine, offering a familiar yet fresh dining experience. And for those days when only a finely crafted burger will do, Trophy Brewing and Pizza stands ready in Raleigh, paralleling the casual yet refined atmosphere you loved at Bull City Burger and Brewery, but with the added appeal of award-winning craft beers. Each Raleigh eatery not only matches its Durham counterpart in quality and atmosphere but also offers its unique twist, ensuring your culinary adventures continue to grow in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation decisions. Understanding how Durham and Raleigh compare in terms of housing helps you make an informed choice. These insights offer a glimpse into the cost, architecture, and lifestyle each city promises.

ComparisonDurhamRaleigh
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalModern and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge backyards, proximity to Duke UniversityEco-friendly features, downtown access

When comparing Durham and Raleigh, each city has its unique charm and offerings in real estate. Durham is known for its Colonial Revival architecture and its proximity to Duke University, making it a coveted location for academics and those desiring larger backyards. On the other hand, Raleigh leans towards modern and Craftsman styles, appealing to those who favor a contemporary lifestyle. Bike enthusiasts may find Raleigh more accommodating with its higher bikeability score. Additionally, Raleigh's emphasis on eco-friendly features and access to a vibrant downtown area cater to individuals seeking an urban lifestyle with a sustainable twist.

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.

Durham vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC, it's essential to understand how the weather might change. This comparison provides insights into what you're used to and what to expect in your new home. Weather comparison charts between Durham and Raleigh highlight key climate differences to help you prepare adequately for your relocation.

Summer icon
89/68

Durham, NC

89/69

Raleigh, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

51/31

Raleigh, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Durham, NC

47

Raleigh, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Durham, NC

4

Raleigh, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDurhamRaleigh
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesHurricanes, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Both Durham and Raleigh enjoy a similar climate, marked by hot summers and mild winters. One noticeable difference is the slightly higher winter temperatures in Raleigh, which can be more comfortable for those sensitive to the cold. Despite these minor temperature variations, the overall weather patterns, including the amount of sunshine, humidity levels, and seasonal allergies triggers, remain consistent. This makes the transition in terms of climate relatively easy for newcomers. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt to your new environment in Raleigh more smoothly.

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

When relocating, diving into the financial contrasts between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison illuminates the cost of living and economic landscapes of Durham and Raleigh , spotlighting essential financial aspects. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for your move.

ComparisonDurhamRaleigh
Avg. Household Income$71,343$74,612
Cost of Living Index96.698.2
State Income Tax5.255.25
Avg. Property Tax0.840.86
Avg. Sales Tax7.57.25
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, BiotechnologyTechnology, Education, Government
AffluenceModerateModerate to High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessModerateLow to Moderate

Though Durham and Raleigh share the same state income tax rate, notable differences in their cost of living and average household income highlight the financial nuances of each city. Durham presents a slightly lower average household income compared to Raleigh, yet offers a marginally less expensive cost of living. The average property and sales tax rates indicate minor variances, underlining the economic diversity within the same geographic region. Moreover, the sectorial emphasis—Durham's strong biotechnology and healthcare sectors versus Raleigh's focus on technology and government jobs—paints a picture of contrasting job markets and lifestyles, a crucial consideration for anyone planning to make a move.

Durham vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

If you're contemplating a move from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC, understanding the comparison of the politics between Durham & Raleigh , along with the religious composition of these cities, will provide a quick snapshot of the communities you're transitioning between. This breakdown gives insight into the potential cultural and social atmosphere that awaits in your new hometown.

DurhamRaleigh
Political Make-upLiberalModerately Liberal
Local PoliticsCity GovernanceCity Governance
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Christian populationDiverse, with Christianity being predominant

When moving from Durham to Raleigh, you'll find both cities share a penchant for liberal politics, though Raleigh presents a slightly more moderate viewpoint. This might impact local policies and the general atmosphere, making Raleigh appealing for those seeking a balance between progressive ideas and traditional values. The governance of both cities actively engages with citizens to foster community development and address local issues, ensuring your voice can impact your new neighborhood. Additionally, religious diversity is cherished in both cities, with Christianity playing a significant role in community gatherings and cultural events, reflecting a blend of faiths that contributes to the rich tapestry of life in either city.

Durham vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham to Raleigh or vice versa means encountering different traffic patterns and transportation options. Understanding the daily commute and traffic is like between Durham & Raleigh will help you plan your days more efficiently and decide whether public transit or a car suits your lifestyle in your new city.

ComparisonDurhamRaleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2225
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?With DifficultyPossible, but challenging

When considering the move between these cities, note that while average commute times are relatively short, Raleigh tends to have slightly higher traffic congestion. This could impact your daily travel times, especially during peak hours. Although both cities provide public transit options, such as buses, Raleigh offers slightly better accessibility, which might sway your decision if you prefer using public transportation. However, in both cities, having access to a vehicle could greatly enhance your mobility and convenience, despite the feasibility of living without one in both locations. This could be a vital aspect to consider based on your lifestyle and work location.

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