Best Lancaster to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lancaster to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,501 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Lancaster to Durham 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 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 Lancaster compared to Durham. 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 Lancaster to Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.03 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.75 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Meathead Movers | 7.22 | 5.82 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Lancaster to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,501 miles from Lancaster, CA to Durham, NC will cost on average $3,908 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lancaster to Durham move is roughly $9,443. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,620 | 300 ft³ | 8.73 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,908 | 450 ft³ | 8.68 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,476 | 750 ft³ | 8.63 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,443 | 1100 ft³ | 8.58 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,655 | 1600 ft³ | 8.53 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,272 | 1800 ft³ | 8.48 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Lancaster guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lancaster to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Speedwell Transportation Inc.
860 W. Avenue L8
Lancaster, CA, 93534
About Speedwell Transportation Inc.
Speedwell Transportation Inc. is a team of professional movers in Santa Clarita, CA with over 60 years of experience. The team...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1861478 / 673344 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Antelope Valley Van and Storage
602 E Ave R
Palmdale, CA, 93550
About Antelope Valley Van and Storage
Instead of memories of stress, you’ll remember moving day as a memorable experience with Antelope Valley Van and Storage, a moving...
Services
- Local Moves
- Intrastate Moves
- Interstate Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 34380 / 133696 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 13,629 (2024) |
Meathead Movers
2905 Unicorn Rd suite a
Bakersfield, CA, 93308
About Meathead Movers
Meathead Movers was founded by two high school brothers in 1997, and now handles 18,000 moves per year! From Eureka down...
Services
- Full Service Local Moving
- On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 921143 / 398077 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
| Registered Drivers | 87 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,188,444 (2023) |
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.
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.
Lancaster vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding the similarities between neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. The goal here is to help you familiarize yourself with Durham, NC, by comparing it to what you know and love about Lancaster, CA. This comparison of local neighborhoods between Lancaster, CA & Durham, NC will guide you in finding a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Lancaster | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Lancaster | Hope Valley | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Quartz Hill | Trinity Park | Historic homes, tree-lined streets |
| Rancho Vista | Woodcroft | Well-established, with walking trails |
| Desert View Highlands | Northgate Park | Quiet, with parks and green spaces |
| Lancaster Commerce Center | Downtown Durham | Vibrant, with shops and dining |
| East Lancaster | Old West Durham | Lively, mix of old and new |
| Sun Village | Brightleaf | Quaint, with a tight-knit community |
| Roosevelt | Southpoint | Modern, near shopping centers |
| Antelope Acres | Leigh Farm | Rural feel, spacious lots |
| Del Sur | Fayetteville Street | Artsy, with cultural events |
If you cherish the historic charm and tree-lined beauty of Quartz Hill, the Trinity Park neighborhood in Durham will feel familiar with its own set of historic homes and lush landscapes. Similarly, West Lancaster's suburban and family-friendly attributes are matched by Durham's Hope Valley, offering wide streets, an array of schooling options, and a strong sense of community. For those who enjoy the bustling life of Lancaster Commerce Center with its plethora of shops and dining experiences, Downtown Durham will not disappoint. Its vibrant streets filled with local eateries, boutiques, and entertainment venues mirror the lively atmosphere you're used to, making for an exciting transition to your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Lancaster to Durham
Moving from one city to another is a big step, filled with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide a balanced perspective on relocating from Lancaster, CA to Durham, NC , highlighting the cons and pros of such a move to help you make an informed decision.
Lancaster, CA- High desert temperatures
- Limited cultural venues
- Less diverse cuisine
- Scarce green spaces
Durham, NC- Milder climate
- Vibrant arts scene
- Wide food variety
- Lush parks and gardens
Durham, NC- Higher living expenses
- More rainfall
- Denser urban living
- Busier city life
Lancaster, CA- Lower housing costs
- Clear skies most days
- Broad open spaces
- Quieter suburban areas
While moving from Lancaster, CA to Durham, NC, you'll leave behind the arid climate of the desert for Durham's milder, yet more humid weather. The cultural landscape of Durham is vibrant, with venues like Durham Performing Arts Center and outdoor events at Durham Central Park contrasting the more limited options in Lancaster. Food enthusiasts will revel in Durham's diverse culinary scene, boasting establishments from classic Southern cuisine at Dame's Chicken Waffles to innovative dishes at Mateo Bar de Tapas. Despite the enticing urban lifestyle Durham offers, it's worth noting the transition might come with adjustments to a denser population and potentially higher living costs, yet the enriched quality of life and new experiences in this dynamic community could well justify the move.
Lancaster vs. Durham Food Guide
Food plays a significant role in understanding a location's culture and the daily lives of its residents. With this in mind, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Lancaster, CA, and Durham, NC . This side-by-side look aims to give you a taste of what to expect on your culinary journey as you transition from one city to the other.
| Lancaster | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Antelope Valley Poppy Cake | Carolina BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip steak | Pulled pork sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food truck burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai bowls | Vegan barbecue |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Durham, the food scene is a vibrant blend of traditional Southern flavors and innovative cuisine. The most iconic local food item you'll find here is the Carolina BBQ, characterized by its vinegar-based sauce. For those fond of meat dishes, a pulled pork sandwich is a must-try, often found at local haunts like the famed Bull City Barbecue. Durham's street food scene thrives thanks to an abundance of food trucks, offering everything from gourmet burgers to vegan barbecue, highlighting the city's high marks for being vegan-friendly. Additionally, neighborhoods like Brightleaf and the American Tobacco District are gastronomic hubs, where eateries like Pizzeria Toro and M Sushi deliver unforgettable dining experiences, solidifying Durham's reputation as a foodie paradise.
Lancaster vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a big change, but finding comforting flavors in a new city can make all the difference. This comparison of top restaurants from Lancaster, CA to Durham, NC aims to help you discover your next favorite spot to call home. Whether you're in search of a fancy night out or a cozy casual eatery, we've got you covered.
| Lancaster | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Lemon Leaf Cafe | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Offers a cozy, casual dining experience with a unique twist |
| Kinetic Brewing Company | Ponysaurus Brewing Co. | Craft brewery with a relaxed atmosphere and quality eats |
| Broken Bit Steakhouse | Angus Barn | Iconic steakhouse known for its high-end dining experience |
| BLVD BRGR CO. | Bull City Burger and Brewery | Local brewery and burger spot with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients |
| Maribel’s Sweets and Pastries | Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Famous for its pastries and a cozy spot for casual bites |
| Spicy Thai Restaurant | Bida Manda | Authentic flavors that capture the essence of traditional Thai cuisine |
| Crazy Otto’s Diner | Elmo’s Diner | Offers a classic diner experience with a comforting, homely feel |
| Giannini Bistro & Grill | Mateo Bar de Tapas | European-inspired dishes with a Southern twist, echoing Giannini’s varied menu |
| Sugar Twist Bakery | Scratch Bakery | Known for its sweet treats and quaint cafe atmosphere |
| Café Rio Mexican Grill | Torero’s Mexican Restaurant | A go-to for satisfying that Mexican cuisine craving with authentic flavors |
When making the leap from Lancaster to Durham, finding spots like Mateo Bar de Tapas can offer a seamless transition for food enthusiasts keen on discovering a variety of flavors similar to The Lemon Leaf Cafe back home. Meanwhile, brewery lovers will appreciate the homely yet artisanal feel of Ponysaurus Brewing Co., akin to what Kinetic Brewing Company provides. Those with a sweet tooth will find Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten a delightful equivalent to Maribel’s Sweets and Pastries, offering a wide array of baked goods and sweets to satisfy your cravings. Each restaurant and bakery in Durham offers a glimpse into the local culture and culinary scene, promising a comforting yet exciting exploration for newcomers.
Ready to start your move?
Lancaster vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of how Lancaster and Durham stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities. Whether you're buying a home or looking for a rental, these insights will help inform your decision.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch Style | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large backyards, Single-story | Historic homes, Proximity to universities |
Digging deeper into the nuances of each city’s housing market, you'll find that Lancaster’s ranch style homes often come with large backyards, appealing to those seeking more space and privacy. On the other hand, Durham’s real estate market highlights its rich history with Colonial Revival architecture and a strong emphasis on education and research thanks to its proximity to top universities. This difference in lifestyle is also reflected in Durham’s higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, making it an enticing option for those who prefer a more active and accessible community environment.
Lancaster vs. Durham Weather Considerations
When relocating from one place to another, appreciating the differences in climate is crucial for a smooth transition. Understanding how the weather in Lancaster, CA compares to Durham, NC will guide you in preparing for your move both mentally and wardrobe-wise.
Lancaster, CA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lancaster, CA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lancaster | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Lancaster to Durham, you'll notice a significant change in humidity and the number of sunny days. Durham experiences higher humidity levels year-round, leading to a warmer feel even when temperatures are similar. Additionally, Durham offers fewer sunny days but compensates with lush landscapes benefiting from the increased rainfall. Adjusting to the local environmental conditions, such as the prevalence of different allergens and potential for different natural disasters, will be key in making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lancaster to Durham
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. It helps you gauge how your expenses might shift and prepare accordingly. This comparison highlights the cost of living, taxes, and the economic climate from Lancaster, CA to Durham, NC , providing a snapshot of what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,242 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 0.84 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Retail | Education, Health, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lower |
The contrast in the average household income between Lancaster and Durham is notable but not drastic, with Durham leading slightly. However, the cost of living index and state income tax rate show a more appreciable difference, favoring Durham for both affordability and lower taxes. Moving to Durham might offer financial breathing space due to these factors. Furthermore, Durham's booming education, health, and technology sectors suggest robust job opportunities compared to Lancaster's aerospace and manufacturing base. This economic landscape could influence your decision, especially if you're seeking employment or career growth in those industries.
Lancaster vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Lancaster, CA, to Durham, NC, it's insightful to understand the communities you'll be joining. This quick glance provides a comparison of the political and religious makeup between Lancaster & Durham , offering a snapshot of the beliefs and governance styles predominant in each city.
| Lancaster | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Conservative | Liberal/Progressive |
| Local Politics | Diverse, with a significant influence from local business leaders | Progressive, with strong participation in social and environmental issues |
| Religion | Christian-centric with various denominations represented | Diverse, with a strong presence of Christian, Jewish, and Islamic communities |
Moving from Lancaster to Durham, you'll notice a significant shift in the political climate, from moderately conservative to a more liberal and progressive viewpoint, particularly in local governance and community engagement in social issues. Local politics in Durham are heavily influenced by community and environmental concerns, reflecting the city's diverse and inclusive nature. While both cities host a range of religious beliefs, Durham offers an exceptionally wide variety, supported by various institutions, such as The Islamic Association of Raleigh for Muslims, and for Jewish community members, Judea Reform Congregation, fostering a rich, diverse spiritual community. This transition might be refreshing if you're looking forward to living in a place with a strong sense of community and active civic engagement.
Lancaster vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating. This comparison between Lancaster, CA, and Durham, NC, aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in these cities.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 35 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
In Lancaster, the average commute time is notably higher than in Durham, reflective of its proximity to larger urban centers and potential for more severe traffic congestion. Lancaster's public transit options are less developed, making car dependency more pronounced. On the other hand, Durham offers shorter commute times and less congestion, which can significantly ease daily travels. Its public transportation system is more accessible, making it easier for those without a vehicle to navigate the city. Such differences underline the importance of understanding local transit realities, especially for prospective movers aiming for a smooth transition.
Additional Resources
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