Best Raleigh to Cary Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Raleigh to Cary and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 13 mile long distance North Carolina move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 140 Raleigh to Cary 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 Raleigh compared to Cary. 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 Raleigh to Cary Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Dogwood Moving Co.9.829.77Contact
2Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6Contact
3J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer9.389.46Contact
4Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Contact
5Neighbor Moving - Raleigh Movers9.279.23Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Raleigh to Cary

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 13 miles from Raleigh, NC to Cary, NC will cost on average $1,523 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Cary move is roughly $3,630. 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$1,028300 ft³3.43
1 Bedroom$1,523450 ft³3.39
2 Bedrooms$2,507750 ft³3.34
3 Bedrooms$3,6301100 ft³3.30
4 Bedrooms$5,2131600 ft³3.26
5+ Bedrooms$5,7881800 ft³3.22
*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 Cary to Raleigh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Cary 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
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
2
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
3
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
4
Neighbor Moving - Raleigh Movers Logo

Neighbor Moving - Raleigh Movers

Exceptional9.27/10
based on 266+ data points

1200 S Blount St

Raleigh, NC, 27601

About Neighbor Moving - Raleigh Movers

Raleigh, NC moving services are provided by companies including Neighbor Moving, a local company that offers a wide range of professional...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Item Pickup & Delivery
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.

Raleigh vs. Cary Neighborhood Comparison

When considering a move between cities, understanding the local neighborhoods is crucial. This guide aims to compare local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Cary, NC , offering a smooth transition by finding areas similar to what you're accustomed to. Whether you're looking for bustling city vibes or tranquil suburban retreats, knowing which neighborhood in your new city mirrors your current one helps in making an informed decision.

RaleighCaryHow They're Similar
North HillsPrestonAffluent, family-friendly atmosphere
Five PointsLochmereHistoric homes, community feel
Cameron VillageMacGregor DownsUpscale shopping, serene landscapes
Boylan HeightsAshbourne EstatesCharming homes, quiet streets
Warehouse DistrictDowntown CaryVibrant art and dining scene
Glenwood SouthWeston PointeNightlife and dining, upscale
OberlinHighland OaksDiverse, with a mix of family homes
MordeciaWellsleyQuiet, historic, and family-oriented
Fayetteville StreetAmberlyLively community activities, shopping
Historic OakwoodGreenwood ForestRich history, artsy vibe

In exploring the charming streets of Historic Oakwood in Raleigh, with its picturesque bungalows and victorian homes, you'll find a similar historic charm within Cary's Greenwood Forest, albeit with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. For those who relish the vibrant art scene and diverse dining options of Raleigh's Warehouse District, Downtown Cary offers an eclectic mix of art galleries like Cary Gallery of Artists and dining experiences that promise to delight. The serene yet upscale shopping experience of Cameron Village finds its match in Cary's MacGregor Downs, where shopping becomes an indulgence surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquil lakes. This detailed comparison shows not just the physical similarities between neighborhoods but also the shared community values and lifestyles, making your transition as seamless as possible.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Cary

Moving from one city to another brings both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Cary, NC , contrasting the cons of Raleigh with the pros of Cary, and vice versa. These comparisons will help you weigh your decision with a clear understanding of what to expect in your new home.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Higher crime rate
  • More traffic
  • Larger population
  • Higher living costs
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Lower crime rate
  • Less traffic
  • Smaller, close-knit community
  • More affordable living
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer cultural events
  • Less dining variety
  • Smaller job market
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • More cultural events
  • Diverse dining options
  • Larger job market

While Cary, with its lower crime rate and less traffic, offers a serene environment compared to Raleigh, the vibrant city life such as Raleigh's diverse restaurant scene including places like Bida Manda or the rich cultural events held at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, might be missed. On the other hand, Cary's Fred G. Bond Metro Park offers an extensive network of trails and open spaces, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Moreover, the transition from Raleigh’s larger job market to Cary’s smaller, yet growing, job economy suggests a shift in employment opportunities, with emerging tech companies clustered around the Research Triangle Park area catering to a variety of professions. Making the move from Raleigh to Cary promises a balance between the lively urban atmosphere and a more subdued, community-focused lifestyle.

Raleigh vs. Cary Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Cary, highlighting how food is a pivotal aspect of the local culture and living experience. Through this comparison, you'll gain insights into the culinary scenes of both places, helping you make an informed decision about your move.

RaleighCary
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQChicken Biryani
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkLamb Kabobs
Most popular street food itemHot DogsChaat
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegetable Thali
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Poole's Diner
  • Clyde Cooper's BBQ
  • Chatham Street Cafe
  • Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen
  • Cilantro Indian Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Raleigh, you'll find a rich tradition of Carolina-style BBQ, particularly at iconic spots like The Pit and Clyde Cooper's BBQ, where the pulled pork is a must-try. The city's abundant food trucks serve everything from traditional hot dogs to innovative vegan delights like BBQ Jackfruit, catering to a diverse palate. In contrast, Cary offers a more international flavor with dishes like Chicken Biryani and Lamb Kabobs featured prominently. Restaurants like Cilantro Indian Cafe highlight Cary's penchant for global cuisine, while its food scene takes a more health-conscious approach, as reflected in its slightly higher fitness/health conscientiousness rating. Whether you’re moving to Raleigh or Cary, you’ll discover that both cities offer unique and satisfying culinary delights that cater to food lovers of all types.

Raleigh vs. Cary Restaurant Comparison

Deciding where to dine is a quintessential part of making a new city feel like home. For those contemplating a move from Raleigh to Cary, this comparison will seamlessly transition your palate. By aligning your current go-to restaurants in Raleigh with their Cary counterparts, we compare the top restaurants in Raleigh to the closest comparable spot in Cary , offering a familiar yet fresh culinary exploration.

RaleighCaryWhat You'll Love
Angus BarnLucky 32 Southern KitchenOffers upscale Southern comfort foods similar in refinement and charm.
Bida MandaKababish CaféA cozy spot for South Asian and Middle Eastern dishes, reminiscent of Bida Manda's Laotian flavors.
Poole's DinerAcademy Street BistroCasual yet sophisticated eatery with a modern twist on American classics, akin to Poole's Diner.
Brewery BhavanaBond Brothers Beer CompanyThough primarily a brewery, offers a welcoming atmosphere and community feel akin to Brewery Bhavana.
GarlandCilantro Indian CaféBrings a unique take on Indian cuisine, paralleling Garland's innovative fusion dishes.
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyDame's Chicken and WafflesFamous for chicken and waffles, a comfort food combination that rivals Beasley's.
Death & TaxesHeronsHigh-end dining experience focusing on seasonal ingredients, similar to the offerings at Death & Taxes.
Crawford and SonPostmasterOffers creative, seasonally focused dishes in a setting that matches Crawford and Son’s devotion to quality.
The PitDanny’s Bar-B-QueCaptures the essence of North Carolina’s barbeque culture just as The Pit does in Raleigh.
Café LunaLa Farm BakeryWhile more casual, La Farm Bakery provides artisanal eats that echo Café Luna’s Italian favorites.

Exploring the culinary scene in a new city is always an adventure, and for those moving from Raleigh to Cary, you'll discover that familiar flavors aren't far away. At places like Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen, you'll find a nostalgic nod towards the upscale comfort dishes akin to what Angus Barn offers, while the cozy atmosphere and South Asian palette of Kababish Café are reminiscent of Bida Manda's unique Laotian cuisine. For those who relish the combination of chicken and waffles, Dame's Chicken and Waffles in Cary stands as a beacon of comfort food that rivals Beasley's Chicken + Honey. Meanwhile, the inventive Indian flavors at Cilantro Indian Café echo the fusion dishes Garland is famed for, offering a taste of home with a fresh twist. Each Cary establishment not only mirrors its Raleigh counterpart in spirit but also infuses a local charm, promising a seamless transition for your dining preferences.

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Raleigh vs. Cary Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a critical factor to consider when planning a move, making it essential to understand how Raleigh, NC, and Cary, NC compare in terms of housing. This comparison will highlight aspects such as cost, architecture, and overall lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonRaleighCary
Typical Architecture StyleModern and ColonialContemporary and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to downtown, green spacesQuiet neighborhoods, family-friendly

When comparing Raleigh and Cary, it becomes evident that both cities have their unique charms and challenges regarding housing. Raleigh's housing market is slightly more affordable, with a median home price of $365,000 compared to Cary's $450,000. However, Cary offers a higher standard for bikeability and walkability, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing outdoor activities and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, Raleigh's real estate listings often highlight the city's proximity to dynamic downtown life and abundant green spaces, appealing to those seeking an urban lifestyle with a touch of nature. Deciding between these cities depends on balancing priorities such as cost, lifestyle, and convenience to suit your living preferences best.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Cary, NC

1. Preston: This neighborhood is known for its picturesque walking paths and local parks, perfect for morning walks or jogs with your furry friends.

2. Lochmere: Offering you access to several greenways and the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, it’s a paradise for pets who love outdoor adventures.

3. Carpenter Village: With its close-knit community feel, pet-friendly amenities, and a dedicated dog park, it’s an ideal spot for pet owners looking for a supportive neighborhood environment.

Raleigh vs. Cary Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another necessitates an understanding of how the weather will compare to what you're accustomed to. In this guide, we compare the weather between Raleigh and Cary, NC, providing insights into how the climate varies across these closely situated cities.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

88/67

Cary, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Raleigh, NC

49/29

Cary, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

43

Cary, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

5.8

Cary, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

The weather patterns of Raleigh and Cary are remarkably similar, with minor differences in temperature and snowfall evident. Both cities enjoy a healthy number of sunny days per year, hovering just over 210, making outdoor activities thoroughly enjoyable throughout the year. When planning a move, it’s helpful to note the slight variation in winter temperatures and annual snowfall, although both cities are well-prepared for the occasional winterscape. Regardless of which city you choose, the transition in terms of weather will be minimal, allowing for a smooth adaptation to your new home.

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

When contemplating a move from Raleigh, NC to Cary, NC, it's crucial to grasp how financial aspects will shift. This comparison will illuminate the differences in finance topics between Raleigh and Cary , emphasizing essential information like cost of living and average income, to assist you in making an informed decision.

ComparisonRaleighCary
Avg. Household Income$74,612$123,857
Cost of Living Index98.295.85
State Income Tax5.255.25
Avg. Property Tax0.860.96
Avg. Sales Tax7.257.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Professional Services, Healthcare
AffluenceProsperousMore affluent
PovertyLower than national averageSignificantly lower than national average
HomelessnessModerateLow

Moving from Raleigh to Cary, you'll find a significant increase in the average household income, indicating a higher general affluence in Cary. However, this comes with a higher cost of living index, where essentials such as housing, groceries, and utilities might be more expensive. Both cities share the same state income and sales tax rates, but property taxes are slightly higher in Cary, reflecting the pricier real estate market. Despite the financial nuances, Cary boasts a robust economy with leading sectors in technology, professional services, and healthcare, offering diverse employment opportunities. It's noteworthy how Cary's affluence translates into markedly lower poverty and homelessness rates compared to Raleigh, lending to its appeal as a place of residence.

Raleigh vs. Cary Political & Religious Comparison

Embarking on a move from Raleigh to Cary provides an opportunity to explore how living among different communities can be. By comparing the politics between Raleigh & Cary , as well as their religious landscapes, you'll get a swift glimpse into the diversity and commonalities of your future neighbors.

RaleighCary
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressive policiesCentrist, with a focus on business and growth
ReligionDiverse religious communitiesHigh presence of Christianity, but growing diversity

In your transition from Raleigh to Cary, you'll discover both cities lean Democratic in their political makeup, showcasing shared values among residents. However, Cary tends to have more centrist approaches to local politics, often catering to business interests and urban development. On the religious front, Raleigh presents a broad mosaic of beliefs and practices, reflecting its larger size and diversity. Meanwhile, Cary, while still primarily Christian, is experiencing growth in its religious diversity, hinting at a community that is slowly becoming more inclusive. This overview provides only a snippet of the rich tapestry of life awaiting you.

Raleigh vs. Cary Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Raleigh to Cary or vice versa requires understanding the differences in daily commute and transportation. This comparison between Raleigh & Cary will provide you with insights into what to expect when driving or using public transit in these cities.

ComparisonRaleighCary
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingDifficult

When moving between Raleigh and Cary, you'll notice a difference in your daily commute. Raleigh offers slightly more availability of public transit, rated at 7 out of 10, with services like the GoRaleigh bus system, making it possible, albeit challenging, to get by without a car. Traffic congestion in Raleigh is also higher, which could affect your commute times. In contrast, Cary has less traffic congestion, but public transit options are more limited, making it more difficult to live there without a car. Understanding these nuances will help you better plan your daily travel and decide what kind of transportation would best suit your lifestyle in either city.

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