Best Durham to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,862 mile move from North Carolina to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Durham to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
2Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
3Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
4John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
5Capital Moving & Storage9.269.47Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Durham to Seattle

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,862 miles from Durham, NC to Seattle, WA will cost on average $4,215 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Seattle move is roughly $10,193. 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$2,825300 ft³9.42
1 Bedroom$4,215450 ft³9.37
2 Bedrooms$6,988750 ft³9.32
3 Bedrooms$10,1931100 ft³9.27
4 Bedrooms$14,7471600 ft³9.22
5+ Bedrooms$16,5001800 ft³9.17
*Please note: These North Carolina to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Washington. 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 WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Seattle Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (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
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
3
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,596+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, especially when moving to a new city. To ease this transition, we're offering a unique guide that compares the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Seattle, WA . By drawing parallels between familiar neighborhoods in Durham and their counterparts in Seattle, this comparison aims to help you find a new home that feels just right.

DurhamSeattleHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkWallingfordFamily-friendly, historic
Old West DurhamBallardVibrant community, nightlife
Hope ValleyMadronaQuiet, upscale residential
Duke ParkGreen LakeGreen spaces, active lifestyle
Warehouse DistrictPioneer SquareRich history, arts scene
American Tobacco DistrictFremontTrendy eateries, young professionals
RockwoodQueen AnneCharming architecture, great views
Cleveland-HollowayCapitol HillDiverse, lively culture
SouthpointSouth Lake UnionTech hub, modern living
BrightleafBelltownNightlife, central location

If you're drawn to the historic yet lively atmosphere of Duke Park, with its communal parks like Duke Park itself, you'll find a similar charm in Seattle's Green Lake neighborhood, known for its active community and scenic Green Lake Park. For those who love the arts and vibrant nightlife of the Warehouse District, Pioneer Square in Seattle offers a rich tapestry of galleries, bars, and historic architecture, reminiscent of Durham's creative spaces. Meanwhile, American Tobacco District's blend of trendy eateries and dynamic social scene finds its counterpart in Seattle's Fremont, where spots like Fremont Brewing and the iconic Fremont Troll sculpture emphasize the neighborhood's youthful and innovative spirit.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Seattle

Moving across the country is a significant life change filled with challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to paint a clear picture of Durham, NC to Seattle, WA relocation by honestly reflecting both the good and bad. It's designed to help you weigh the balance between what you're leaving behind and the new experiences awaiting in Seattle.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Lesser cultural diversity
  • Warmer summers
  • Lower cost of living
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Larger tech industry
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Cooler summers
  • More outdoor activities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More rain in Seattle
  • Higher cost of living
  • More urban
  • Lesser local market scene
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Warmer summers
  • Lower cost of living
  • Smaller, community feel
  • Accessible local markets

When comparing Durham and Seattle, a key consideration is the climate; Durham's warmer summers contrast with Seattle's milder climate, which might be a relief or a downside, depending on your preferences. The tech scene in Seattle, including major companies Microsoft, Amazon, and a thriving startup ecosystem, offers extensive career opportunities compared to Durham. However, this comes with a higher cost of living and a more urban environment, which might be daunting for those accustomed to Durham's smaller, community-oriented feel. Seattle's renowned for its beautiful outdoor spaces like Discovery Park and Pike Place Market, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, albeit with more rainy days.

Durham vs. Seattle Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Seattle, representing a pivotal element of cultural immersion for anyone considering a move between these vibrant cities. Understanding the food scene is essential for grasping what life in your new locale might taste like.

DurhamSeattle
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQSalmon
Most popular meat dishPulled pork sandwichDungeness crab
Most popular street food itemFood truck tacosPiroshky
Most popular vegan foodBBQ jackfruitVegan pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Poole's Diner
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Saltbox Seafood Joint
  • Canlis
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • The Pink Door
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

As you settle into your new home in Seattle, exploring the city's rich food culture will undoubtedly be a highlight. Neighborhoods such as Ballard and Capitol Hill are renowned for their vibrant food scenes, boasting an array of restaurants that cater to your culinary curiosity. You'll find Seattle's iconic Salmon dishes in waterfront restaurants, while places like Pike Place Chowder and The Pink Door offer a taste of the city's beloved seafood and Italian fare. The city's commitment to health and fitness is also reflected in its food, with numerous eateries offering delightful vegan options and restaurants that source ingredients locally to support sustainability. Seattle's food trucks and street food, such as Piroshky from Pike Place Market, provide a flavorful insight into the city's gastronomic diversity.

Durham vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the significance of food in making a place feel like home, this restaurant comparison between Durham, NC, and Seattle, WA, aims to bridge the culinary gap for newcomers. By identifying comparable dining experiences, we hope to help you find your new favorite spots, easing the transition and enriching your Seattle adventure.

DurhamSeattleWhat You'll Love
M Mateo Bar de TapasHarvest VineAuthentic Spanish tapas with an intimate setting
Pizzeria ToroDelanceyWood-fired pizzas with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients
Bull City Burger and BreweryQuinn’s PubCraft beers and gourmet burgers with local ingredients
Nana's RestaurantCanlisClassic fine dining with innovative, seasonal menus
Elmo's DinerBeth's CafeIconic diner known for huge breakfasts and quirky atmosphere
Dame's Chicken and WafflesJuneBabySouthern cuisine with a focus on heritage and comfort food
The ParlourMolly Moon's Homemade Ice CreamUnique flavors and local ingredients
Hutchins GarageBallard Pizza CompanyCasual and innovative pizza spot with a laid-back vibe
Guglhupf Cafe, Bakery & BiergartenKaffeeklatschGerman-inspired bakery and cafe with a selection of beers
Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal ChickenSan Fernando Roasted Peruvian ChickenAuthentic Peruvian flavors with traditional charcoal roasting

For those who have cherished dining at Mateo Bar de Tapas in Durham, the transition to Seattle's culinary scene can be smoothly bridged with a visit to Harvest Vine, where the essence of Spanish tapas is captured perfectly in both the ambiance and the menu. Similarly, pizza aficionados who frequent Pizzeria Toro will find solace and satisfaction in the wood-fired pizzas at Delancey, celebrated not only for their authentic flavors but also for embracing locally-sourced ingredients. And for those evenings when comfort food is a must, JuneBaby serves as Seattle's answer to Dame's Chicken and Waffles, providing a soulful dining experience that echoes Durham's southern cuisine with a clear focus on tradition and comforting flavors.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Durham, NC, and Seattle, WA, aims to shine a light on differences in housing, giving you a clearer picture for your relocation decisions.

ComparisonDurhamSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanModern, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge-yards, Quiet neighborhoodsViews, Eco-friendly features

Delving deeper into the contrasts, Seattle's housing market is significantly pricier, but it offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with higher walkability and bikeability scores. This suggests a community where daily errands do not necessarily require a car, which is further supported by the prevalence of modern architecture with eco-friendly features. Conversely, Durham's real estate presents more affordable options, often highlighting Colonial or Craftsman homes with considerable yard space, appealing to those searching for a quieter lifestyle. Despite its lower urban lifestyle score compared to Seattle, Durham holds its charm for homebuyers prioritizing space and affordability.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Durham vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Durham, NC to Seattle, WA, understanding the weather differences can help you adjust more comfortably. This comparison highlights how the climate changes between Durham and Seattle so you can anticipate what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/70

Durham, NC

76/56

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

47/37

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Durham, NC

38

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDurhamSeattle
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesEarthquakes, Volcanoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Durham experiences hot summers and mild winters, Seattle's climate tends to be cooler year-round with milder variations between seasons. The noticeable difference in sunshine days could affect your daily activities and can have an impact on your mental health, making it essential to find new ways to enjoy the outdoors in Seattle. Additionally, the potential for different natural disasters necessitates familiarizing yourself with local safety measures and preparedness plans. Understanding these aspects of your new city will help you adapt faster and ensure a smoother transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's vital to grasp the financial implications of the transition. This comparison chart highlights the cost of living, average incomes, taxes, and economic environment between Durham and Seattle , offering a perspective on what to expect in terms of expenses and economic opportunities.

ComparisonDurhamSeattle
Avg. Household Income$71,343$110,781
Cost of Living Index96.6121.4
State Income Tax5.250 (but has gross receipts tax for businesses)
Avg. Property Tax1.160.99
Avg. Sales Tax7.510.1
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, BiotechnologyTechnology, Aerospace, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessNotableSignificant

Shifting from Durham to Seattle involves navigating a substantial increase in the cost of living, with Seattle's index over double that of Durham. However, this financial leap is somewhat balanced by significantly higher average household incomes in Seattle, reflective of its booming technology and aerospace industries. Despite the absence of state income tax in Washington, Seattle's high sales and property taxes, along with steep living costs, may offset this benefit. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone considering this move, ensuring you're financially prepared for the vibrant yet expensive lifestyle Seattle offers.

Durham vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for your move from Durham, NC to Seattle, WA, it's beneficial to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Durham & Seattle , offering insights into the political leanings and religious affiliations of the people you'll meet in your new city.

DurhamSeattle
Political Make-upLiberalVery Liberal
Local PoliticsModerately active in social issuesHighly active with a strong focus on environmental and social justice issues
ReligionMixed, with a notable Christian presenceLess religiously affiliated, with notable Buddhist and non-religious communities

While both Durham and Seattle share a liberal leaning, you'll find that Seattle takes activism, especially regarding environmental and social justice, to another level. This vibrant community engagement is mirrored in its diverse religious landscape. Seattle's religious makeup is less traditional than Durham's, with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious or part of alternative spiritual groups. Moving to Seattle, you'll be entering a deeply progressive environment where social issues and inclusivity are at the forefront of community initiatives.

Durham vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC to Seattle, WA will noticeably change your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Seattle is designed to help you understand what to expect in terms of driving and public transit in your new city.

ComparisonDurhamSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2228
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

In contrast to Durham, Seattle's more extensive public transit system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, simplifies commuting without a car. The average commute time in Seattle is longer, a reflection of its heavier traffic congestion, which Durham residents might find challenging at first. However, Seattle's high availability of public transit options compensates for its congested roads, making it feasible and often preferable to navigate the city without personal vehicle reliance. This distinction is crucial for new arrivals from Durham, where a car is almost essential for daily travel.

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