Best Lancaster to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lancaster to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,536 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Lancaster 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Raleigh 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. | 8.02 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.74 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Meathead Movers | 7.21 | 5.82 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Lancaster to Raleigh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,536 miles from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $3,938 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lancaster to Raleigh move is roughly $9,516. 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 | $2,640 | 300 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,938 | 450 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,526 | 750 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,516 | 1100 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,761 | 1600 ft³ | 8.60 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,391 | 1800 ft³ | 8.55 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Lancaster guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lancaster to Raleigh 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. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning a move from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC, familiarizing yourself with the new city's neighborhoods can be challenging. To help bridge this gap, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Lancaster, CA & Raleigh, NC . By understanding the similarities, we can ease the transition and help you find a community that feels like home.
| Lancaster | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Lancaster | North Hills | Family-friendly, shopping & dining |
| Quartz Hill | Five Points | Historic, vibrant community life |
| Rancho Vista | North Raleigh | Residential, green spaces |
| Downtown Lancaster | Downtown Raleigh | Urban living, arts and culture |
| East Lancaster | East Raleigh | Diverse, accessible amenities |
| Desert View Highlands | Boyland Heights | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Lake Los Angeles | Lake Johnson | Lakeside living, outdoor activities |
| Antelope Acres | Wade | Spacious, community-oriented |
| Roosevelt | Cameron Village | Shopping, dining, convenience |
| Sunrise | Oberlin | Quiet, family-friendly, parks |
For those moving from the vibrant West Lancaster, the North Hills area in Raleigh offers a similar blend of family-friendly atmosphere coupled with bustling shopping districts and diverse dining options, such as the Midtown Food Hall. If the quiet, suburban charm of Desert View Highlands is what you're leaving behind, Boylan Heights in Raleigh will give you a similar sense of community amidst quaint, historic homes. On the other hand, Downtown Lancaster's lively arts scene finds its counterpart in Downtown Raleigh, where venues like the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts and the North Carolina Museum of Art stand as cultural beacons. Each Raleigh neighborhood pairs with its Lancaster counterpart to offer familiar comforts with a distinct North Carolina flavor, making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Lancaster to Raleigh
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC involves weighing various factors to understand how this relocation could impact your life. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the goods and bads of making such a move. Through these charts, we hope to offer insights that could help make your decision a little easier.
Lancaster, CA- Higher crime rate
- Desert climate
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less cultural diversity
- Limited nightlife
Raleigh, NC- Lower crime rate
- Milder climate
- More job opportunities
- Greater cultural diversity
- Vibrant nightlife
Raleigh, NC- Higher cost of living
- Denser population
- Busier city life
- More humid summers
- Heavier traffic
Lancaster, CA- Lower cost of living
- Open spaces
- Quiet small-town vibe
- Bright, sunny weather
- Simpler traffic
While both Lancaster and Raleigh have their unique appeals, the move to Raleigh promises an enriching experience boasting of a vibrant cultural scene and enhanced job market. Raleigh's celebrated North Carolina Museum of History and the lush Umstead State Park stand out as highlights, offering both educational and recreational outings. The dining scene in Raleigh is notably diverse, with establishments like Brewery Bhavana blending unique flavors with cultural experiences. Meanwhile, Lancaster's quaint setting and simpler lifestyle, characterized by widespread open spaces and a less hectic pace of life, offer a striking contrast to Raleigh's busier, more urban atmosphere. This move, while inviting change, suggests a trade-off between the tranquility of desert spaces and the dynamic, community-rich environment of Raleigh.
Lancaster vs. Raleigh Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Lancaster, CA, and Raleigh, NC because food is a significant aspect of local culture and what living in an area is like. By comparing these two locations, you can be better informed about the food scene in your new city.
| Lancaster | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Eastern North Carolina BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip steak | Pulled pork |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Raleigh, NC, you’re transitioning into a foodie heaven known for its Eastern North Carolina BBQ, highlighted at traditional spots like the pitmaster-led The Pit. This region prides itself on its pulled pork, a central feature of Raleigh's food scene, often enjoyed at community gatherings or vibrant city festivals. The city's food trucks, especially around the Downtown Raleigh area, offer an eclectic mix of cuisines, making the street food scene diverse and accessible. Raleigh's commitment to inclusivity is also evident in its vegan offerings, with BBQ Jackfruit standing out as a popular choice. For health enthusiasts, Raleigh’s high fitness-consciousness rating reflects the city's numerous outdoor trails and parks, complementing its vibrant food scene with plenty of opportunities to stay active.
Lancaster vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
Adjusting to a new city is a journey filled with discovery, especially when it comes to dining. Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. To ease your transition from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC, this restaurant comparison will help bridge the gap between your old favorites and your soon-to-be favorites in your new city.
| Lancaster | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Broken Bit Steakhouse | Angus Barn | Iconic steakhouses both offering premium cuts and a rustic ambiance |
| Lemon Leaf Cafe | Beasley’s Chicken + Honey | Casual dining with a focus on comfort food, albeit with a Southern twist |
| Giannini Bistro & Grill | Caffe Luna | Italian dining with a commitment to a warm atmosphere and traditional dishes |
| La Carreta Mexican Restaurant | Jose and Sons | Mexican cuisine with a blend of traditional and modern influences |
| Dragon Garden | Five Star Restaurant | High-quality Chinese fare known for authenticity and flavor |
| Blue Collar Eatery | Poole's Diner | Both spots embrace the essence of American comfort food with a unique twist |
| Yogurtland | Sweetwater Ices | Specializes in dessert, offering a similarly sweet treat experience |
| The Modern Tea Room | Lucettegrace | Offering a modern café experience with a focus on pastries and teas |
| Spicy Thai | Sawasdee Thai | Authentic Thai cuisine that captures the essence of Thailand’s rich culinary culture |
| Kinetic Brewing Company | Trophy Brewing Company | Both offer a great selection of craft beers in a vibrant, welcoming environment |
For those who cherish a fine steak, transitioning from Broken Bit Steakhouse in Lancaster to Angus Barn in Raleigh will feel like a seamless move, both offering exquisite meat cuts and a memorable dining atmosphere. Meanwhile, aficionados of cozy, Italian dining will find that the transition from Giannini Bistro & Grill to Caffe Luna preserves the essence of a comforting, classical meal setting. Authentic cuisine lovers moving from enjoying the flavors at Dragon Garden or Spicy Thai will find Five Star Restaurant and Sawasdee Thai not only meet but exceed their expectations with authentic dishes that transport diners straight to the heart of Chinese and Thai cultures, respectively. Whether you’re craving for something familiar or eager to explore new tastes, Raleigh’s dining scene promises an exciting adventure for your palate, mirroring the vibrant flavors Lancaster has offered you.
Ready to start your move?
Lancaster vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how Lancaster and Raleigh compare in terms of housing cost, architecture style, walkability, and more. This comparison will help you understand what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch-style | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, scenic views | Green spaces, access to amenities |
While Lancaster offers more affordable options for spacious homes, typically in ranch-style architecture, and boasts scenic views, Raleigh's colonial revival homes are nearer to amenities, enhancing walkability and urban lifestyle scores. Raleigh’s emphasis on green spaces and its stronger urban lifestyle appeal, as evidenced by its higher walkability and bikeability scores, cater to those seeking a more dynamic environment. This comparison underscores Raleigh's edge in promoting an active and convenient lifestyle, likely a significant factor for many considering the move.
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.
Lancaster vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
When preparing for a move from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC, it's crucial to understand the weather differences you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight how the climate shifts between these two cities, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.
Lancaster, CA
Raleigh, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Raleigh, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lancaster, CA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lancaster | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Raleigh means trading a more arid climate for one with higher humidity and more precipitation. You'll enjoy milder summers in Raleigh, but prepare yourself for wetter weather and the potential for hurricanes and tornadoes. While Lancaster boasts more sunny days, Raleigh's lush environment may introduce new allergy challenges due to higher pollen and mold counts. Adapting to these changes will be key to enjoying your new home in Raleigh.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lancaster to Raleigh
Understanding the financial implications of relocating is critical. Comparing the cost of living , average household income , and tax rates between your current and future homes can help you prepare. This chart highlights these differences between Lancaster, CA and Raleigh, NC to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,242 | $74,612 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 98.2 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 0.84 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5 | 6.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When moving from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC, you will notice several critical financial contrasts. The average household income is notably higher in Raleigh, coupled with a lower cost of living index, suggesting your money could go further in Raleigh than in Lancaster. Additionally, the substantial difference in state income tax—13.3% in California vs. 5.25% in North Carolina—could mean significant annual savings. While both areas have diverse and vibrant economies, Raleigh stands out with a particular strength in technology and education sectors, offering rich employment opportunities. Understanding these differences can help ease your transition and financial planning.
Lancaster vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a big move from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC, understanding the community you're moving into can make all the difference. This comparison focuses on giving you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Lancaster & Raleigh, helping you gauge how well you might fit in.
| Lancaster | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed local governance with emphasis on development | Progressive local governance, focusing on sustainability and inclusivity |
| Religion | Variety, with Christian churches like First Christian Church of Lancaster being prominent | Diverse, with significant representation from multiple faiths including Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism |
As you prepare for your move from Lancaster to Raleigh, you'll find that Raleigh's political scene is markedly more progressive, reflecting a strong Democratic leaning compared to Lancaster's more balanced political environment. Raleigh's local politics also focus heavily on sustainability and inclusivity, which might come as a refreshing change. The religious landscape in Raleigh is notably diverse, offering a broad array of faith communities, from traditional churches to mosques and temples, accommodating a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices. This diversity reflects the inclusive nature of Raleigh, making it an inviting place for newcomers seeking a community where they can fit in and be accepted.
Lancaster vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Raleigh, NC? It's crucial to understand how daily commutes differ. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Lancaster & Raleigh will help you prepare for your new city life.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 35 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but it’s challenging |
When considering your move from Lancaster to Raleigh, it's key to note that while Raleigh boasts a shorter average commute time and less traffic congestion, its public transit system is more developed than Lancaster's. This could make a car-less lifestyle more feasible in Raleigh, despite it still presenting certain challenges. However, the dependency on cars in Lancaster is significantly higher due to its limited public transit options. This comparison underscores the importance of planning for your transportation needs in your new city.
Additional Resources
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Popular Lancaster to North Carolina Routes
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