Best Irvine to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Irvine to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,607 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Irvine to Raleigh moving companies and more than 20,000 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 $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine 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.

Best Irvine to Raleigh Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Irvine to Raleigh Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
2Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
3Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
4NorthStar Moving Company9.218.97Authorized For HHGContact
5Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Irvine to Raleigh

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,607 miles from Irvine, CA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $3,998 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Raleigh move is roughly $9,663. 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$2,680300 ft³8.93
1 Bedroom$3,998450 ft³8.88
2 Bedrooms$6,626750 ft³8.83
3 Bedrooms$9,6631100 ft³8.78
4 Bedrooms$13,9761600 ft³8.73
5+ Bedrooms$15,6331800 ft³8.68
*Please note: These California to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & 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 CA to NC mover.
California iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Irvine guide.

Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Raleigh Movers

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

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
1
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
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
NorthStar Moving Company Logo

NorthStar Moving Company

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.21/10
based on 10,283+ data points

633 W 5th St 26th floor

Los Angeles, CA, 90071

About NorthStar Moving Company

Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • International Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1836576 / 665757

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,965+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Irvine vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. Our guide is here to help you bridge that gap by comparing local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Raleigh, NC . We aim to match you with an area in Raleigh that feels like home, using your favorite Irvine neighborhood as a baseline.

IrvineRaleighHow They're Similar
WoodbridgeLake JohnsonFamily-friendly, outdoor activities
Turtle RockBoylan HeightsHistoric homes, community feel
NorthwoodNorth HillsShopping, dining, modern homes
Quail HillCameron VillageQuaint shopping, green spaces
Shady CanyonHayes BartonExclusive, luxury living
University ParkFive PointsEclectic mix, young professionals
WestparkBrier CreekFamily-oriented, amenities-rich
WoodburyStonehengeCommunity events, welcoming atmosphere
Portola SpringsWakefieldSuburban feel, golf community
Great Park NeighborhoodsMidtown RaleighInnovative, planned development

If you're drawn to the family-friendly atmosphere and the lush parks of Woodbridge, you'll find a similar vibe at Lake Johnson in Raleigh, renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, including the popular Lake Johnson Park. Fans of Turtle Rock's historic charm and community-focused living will appreciate Boylan Heights, where historic homes and a tight-knit community set the stage for a warm welcome. For those who enjoy the upscale, shopping, and dining experience of Northwood, North Hills in Raleigh offers an impressive array of shops, eateries, and modern living spaces, making it a bustling hub for anybody looking to merge convenience with style. Meanwhile, the luxurious feel and secluded grandeur of Shady Canyon find a parallel in Raleigh's Hayes Barton, known for its exclusive neighborhoods and stately homes.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Raleigh

Moving from one city to another is a major life decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Irvine, CA to Raleigh, NC , outlining the pros and cons of such a relocation. It's designed to help you weigh your options by presenting the advantages and disadvantages side by side.

CONs
PROs
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less humidity
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • More greenery
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Humid summers
  • Lesser food variety
  • Farther from the beach
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Diverse food scene
  • Beach proximity

When considering the move from Irvine to Raleigh, you'll notice immediate benefits such as a drop in the cost of living, which can significantly improve your quality of life. Raleigh's traffic is notably less congested, offering you more time to explore the city's lush parks and vibrant downtown area. Though you may miss Irvine's proximity to the beach and its diverse food scene, Raleigh counters with its own culinary treasures. Establishments like Brewery Bhavana for craft beer and dim sum or the lush landscapes of William B. Umstead State Park provide unique experiences that make Raleigh not just a place to live, but a place to thrive. While Irvine boasts mild winters, Raleigh offers a picturesque autumn and a more significant change of seasons, inviting new traditions and outdoor activities that complement its Southern charm.

Irvine vs. Raleigh Food Guide

Food plays a vital role in understanding the essence of where you live, infusing daily life with flavors unique to the locale. Here, we embark on a journey to explore the culinary landscapes of two vibrant cities. By comparing the local cuisine between Irvine & Raleigh , this guide aims to offer insights into the gastronomic delights awaiting you, helping you feel more at home in your new city.

IrvineRaleigh
Most iconic local food itemAvocado ToastPulled Pork BBQ
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemTacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlsBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Din Tai Fung
  • HiroNori Craft Ramen
  • Habana
  • The Pit
  • Poole's Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When settling into Raleigh, you'll quickly discover its deep-rooted BBQ culture, epitomized by establishments like The Pit, where traditional pulled pork takes center stage. Raleigh's celebrated for its comfort food, with fried chicken being a must-try. For vegan residents, BBQ Jackfruit offers a delightful twist on the city's BBQ fame. Food trucks and street food like hot dogs also reflect the city's laid-back yet vibrant food scene, providing an exciting exploration into local flavors. Whether indulging in the city's rich tastes or seeking health-conscious options, Raleigh caters to all.

Irvine vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding where to dine becomes a top priority as food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Irvine, CA and Raleigh, NC , will guide you to your new favorite spots, leveraging your current favorites as a benchmark.

IrvineRaleighWhat You'll Love
HiroNori Craft RamenTonbo RamenAuthentic ramen experience with a focus on quality broth and noodles.
Din Tai FungBrewery BhavanaOffers a diverse Dim Sum menu, honoring the intricate flavors like Din Tai Fung.
North ItaliaGravyItalian-American cuisine with a dedication to fresh, handcrafted meals.
Mendocino FarmsBeasley's Chicken + HoneyCasual spot with an innovative take on sandwiches and salads.
Javier'sJose and SonsHigh-quality Mexican cuisine with a homely, authentic ambiance.
Boiling PointCOProvides a unique hot pot experience with a variety of Asian flavors.
Square One PizzaPoolside PiesNeapolitan pizzas with a creative twist, similar in dedication to craft.
Kang Ho-dong BaekjeongSeoul 116Korean BBQ with an emphasis on quality meats and traditional side dishes.
Marché ModerneSecond EmpireUpscale dining experience with a focus on meticulous dish preparation.
The Halal GuysSassoolOffers Middle Eastern cuisine with a commitment to flavors and quick service.

Exploring the culinary landscape of your new city can be an exciting adventure. For instance, if you've relished the authentic ramen bowls at HiroNori Craft Ramen in Irvine, Tonbo Ramen in Raleigh awaits with its own take on this Japanese classic, focusing on rich, flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles. Similarly, the transition from the upscale, modern flavors of Marché Moderne to Second Empire's refined dining setting will satisfy your appetite for high-quality, meticulously prepared dishes. On the casual end, Mendocino Farms' sandwich and salad enthusiasts will find a fresh perspective on comfort food with a visit to Beasley's Chicken + Honey, famous for its creative approach to Southern classics. Each Raleigh counterpart not only mirrors the essence of your Irvine favorites but also adds its own local flair, promising a seamless culinary transition.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Irvine vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, analyzing real estate is crucial. This comparison between Irvine, CA and Raleigh, NC focuses on housing costs, styles, and livability, offering insights to make your decision easier.

ComparisonIrvineRaleigh
Typical Architecture StyleModern and SpanishColonial and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, high ceilingsLarge yards, proximity to nature

In terms of architecture, Irvine leans towards modern and Spanish styles, reflecting California's historical influences and contemporary design trends. In contrast, Raleigh embraces Colonial and Craftsman styles, offering a nod to the East Coast's architectural heritage. This difference not only highlights the unique cultural backgrounds of each area but also influences the overall aesthetic and feel of neighborhoods. Walkability and bikeability scores suggest that Raleigh is slightly more conducive to outdoor activities and commuting by means other than cars. The contrast in most popular real estate listing items—such as Irvine's preference for open floor plans and high ceilings versus Raleigh's fondness for large yards and proximity to nature—further underscores the lifestyle differences between these two cities.

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.

Irvine vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Irvine, CA to Raleigh, NC, it's crucial to compare the weather to anticipate how your daily life and activities might change. This comparison will help you understand the Irvine vs Raleigh climate differences and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Irvine, CA

89°F / 68°F

Raleigh, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 47°F

Irvine, CA

54°F / 34°F

Raleigh, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
14

Irvine, CA

43

Raleigh, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Irvine, CA

6

Raleigh, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIrvineRaleigh
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHurricanes, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Transitioning from Irvine to Raleigh will introduce you to a more variable climate, with Raleigh experiencing more pronounced seasonal changes. For example, you'll enjoy warmer summers but should prepare for cooler winters and more frequent rain. Raleigh's higher humidity levels and additional rainfall significantly impact the local environment, contributing to lush greenery but also more common mold and pollen allergies. Additionally, while Irvine is known for its earthquakes and wildfires, in Raleigh, the weather risks shift towards hurricanes and tornadoes, offering a different set of challenges to prepare for.

Ready to start your move?

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

When embarking on a move from one city to another, comprehending the financial implications is essential. This comparison will illuminate the differences in money and finance topics between Irvine, CA and Raleigh, NC, aiding you in setting realistic expectations for your new life.

ComparisonIrvineRaleigh
Avg. Household Income$105,774$74,612
Cost of Living Index136.498.2
State Income Tax13.35.25
Avg. Property Tax0.720.84
Avg. Sales Tax7.756.75
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, Health ServicesTechnology, Education, Government
AffluenceHighly affluentModerately affluent
PovertyLowLower than national average
HomelessnessLowModerate

The contrasts in average household income and cost of living indexes between Irvine, CA, and Raleigh, NC, highlight the financial adjustments you'll need to consider. In Irvine, the higher average income reflects the city's highly affluent status but is coupled with a significantly higher cost of living. Raleigh, while more affordable, offers a moderate affluence level with an income that still supports a comfortable lifestyle. State income tax in North Carolina is considerably lower than California's, potentially providing more disposable income. However, it's essential to also factor in sales and property taxes which differ marginally. The top industries in both cities hint at robust job markets, particularly in technology and education, offering opportunities for professional growth.

Irvine vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

As you plan your move from Irvine, CA, to Raleigh, NC, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This quick overview provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Irvine & Raleigh, aiding in your transition.

IrvineRaleigh
Political Make-upLean liberalModerate, with liberal leanings
Local PoliticsDiverse representationProgressive leadership
ReligionMix of religions, with a notable Christian communityVaried, with a strong Muslim presence alongside Christian churches

In both Irvine and Raleigh, you'll find communities where political views tend to have a liberal leaning, albeit Raleigh exhibits a more moderate stance with a progressive leadership at its helm. Local politics in Raleigh are noted for their forward-thinking policies, which should be a refreshing continuation from what you're used to in Irvine. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, providing a welcoming environment for various beliefs and practices. Significant to note is Raleigh's vibrant Muslim community, which complements the city's array of Christian churches, mirroring Irvine's religious diversity. This rich blend of politics and religion in your new home offers a multifaceted community ready to welcome you.

Irvine vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Irvine, CA, to Raleigh, NC? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Raleigh will help you better grasp what daily commutes might look like, easing your transition. Whether you're driving to work or exploring public transit options, let's compare the two cities to see what adjustments you might need to make.

ComparisonIrvineRaleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2524
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultModerate

While both Irvine and Raleigh feature average commute times that are relatively close, standing at 25 and 24 minutes respectively, the convenience of living in either city without a car varies significantly. In Irvine, the reliance on cars is notably higher due to limited public transit options, scoring a 6 out of 10. Conversely, in Raleigh, while still not perfect, getting by without a car is slightly more feasible, thanks to a moderately effective transportation network. Importantly, traffic congestion in Irvine is a more common frustration among residents compared to Raleigh, which scores notable lower in congestion levels. This comparison indicates that your daily commute in Raleigh might be less stressful in terms of traffic delays, offering a smoother transition for those used to Irvine's bustling roads.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Irvine to Raleigh Movers Featured Image