Best Los Angeles to Durham Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Los Angeles to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,636 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 52 Los Angeles to Durham 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 Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles 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.

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Best Los Angeles to Durham Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.459.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
4Prodigy Moving & Storage9.419.24Authorized For HHGContact
5Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Durham

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,636 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC will cost on average $4,023 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Durham move is roughly $9,724. 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$2,697300 ft³8.99
1 Bedroom$4,023450 ft³8.94
2 Bedrooms$6,667750 ft³8.89
3 Bedrooms$9,7241100 ft³8.84
4 Bedrooms$14,0631600 ft³8.79
5+ Bedrooms$15,7311800 ft³8.74
*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.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Durham Movers

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

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 1,438+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo

Prodigy Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 12,245+ data points

601 S Figueroa St

Los Angeles, CA, 90017

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...

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

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
4
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
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.

Los Angeles vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can often feel like stepping into an unfamiliar narrative. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that compares neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Durham, NC . This comparison aims to help you find a slice of familiarity in your new city by matching you with a neighborhood that resonates with your current Los Angeles locale. Let's explore the similarities that might make Durham feel like home.

Los AngelesDurhamHow They're Similar
Silver LakeTrinity ParkArtsy, vibrant community
VeniceOld West DurhamEclectic,-friendly atmosphere
Beverly GroveWatts-HillandaleCharming, walkable streets
Downtown LADowntown DurhamBustling urban center
HollywoodBrightleafHistoric, cultural heart
WestwoodHope ValleyUpscale, academic influence
Los FelizForest HillsQuiet, leafy streets
Studio CityRockwoodFamily-friendly, diverse dining
Pacific PalisadesTreyburnLuxurious, secluded homes

In the eclectic alleys of Silver Lake, where creativity blooms at every corner, you'll find a similar spirit in Durham's Trinity Park. This neighborhood is rich with artsy vibes and a strong sense of community, much like its Los Angeles counterpart. Meanwhile, Venice's unparalleled bohemian and beachy essence is mirrored in Old West Durham, where a friendly and eclectic atmosphere thrives amidst local eateries and shops. For those who cherish the urban pulse of Downtown LA, Downtown Durham offers a bustling center of culture and innovation, not to mention the historic charm of Brightleaf, which echoes the cultural significance of Hollywood with its own historic venues and vibrant nightlife. On a quieter note, the serene, tree-lined streets of Los Feliz find a counterpart in Durham's Forest Hills, a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. Each pairing underscores a shared attribute, whether it be architectural charm, community spirit, or cultural richness, promising a seamless transition for those moving from the West Coast to the Southeast.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to Durham

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC is a journey filled with contrasts. This comparison sheds light on the benefits and challenges, offering an honest reflection of the transition to help you understand what lies ahead in your move to Durham.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Smog and air pollution
  • Minimal seasonal changes
  • Less community vibe
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Cleaner air
  • Distinct seasons
  • Strong local community
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Fewer entertainment options
  • More limited cuisine
  • Fewer job opportunities in specific sectors
  • Hotter summers
  • Less cultural diversity
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Vibrant entertainment
  • Diverse food scene
  • Better job opportunities in entertainment and tech industries
  • Mild winters
  • Broad cultural diversity

Moving to Durham, NC from Los Angeles, CA introduces you to a different lifestyle. Durham's lower cost of living means you can enjoy spacious homes without the LA price tag. Enjoy nature and the great outdoors at Eno River State Park, a favorite local spot for hiking and picnics. The city's thriving local community spirit is felt in areas like the Durham Central Park, which hosts farmers' markets and cultural events. Although Durham may offer fewer entertainment and dining options compared to LA, the quality and charm of local establishments such as Pizzeria Toro and Fullsteam Brewery deliver unique experiences that showcase the city's diverse culinary scene.

Los Angeles vs. Durham Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape and everyday life of any region. Through this comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Durham, we aim to equip you with insights into the distinct flavors, traditions, and dining scenes you'll encounter as you transition from the West Coast to the Carolinas.

Los AngelesDurham
Most iconic local food itemSushiCarolina-style BBQ pork
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemTacosFood Truck Burgers
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pizzeria Mozza
  • Providence
  • Spago
  • Nana's
  • Pooles Diner
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Los Angeles, you're entering a world where the food scene is as diverse as its population. Neighborhoods like Koreatown or the Arts District are hotspots for foodies, offering everything from authentic street tacos to high-end dining experiences like those found at Spago. Meanwhile, Durham presents a delightful blend of Southern charm and innovative cuisine. With a bustling food truck scene, nearly akin to LA's, you can find gourmet burgers and Carolina-style BBQ pork that define local flavors. Iconic spots like Mateo Bar de Tapas combine the region’s culinary heritage with a modern twist, making Durham’s food scene not just traditional but also eclectic.

Los Angeles vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison

Moving cities is a big change, but finding your new favorite dining spots shouldn’t be daunting. This restaurant comparison from Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC will make you feel at home by letting you dive into the vibrant culinary scenes of your current and future cities. From high-end dining to affordable eats, let’s uncover your next go-to eateries.

Los AngelesDurhamWhat You'll Love
BestiaMateo Bar de TapasA tapas-style dining experience capturing the essence of communal dining like Bestia.
RepubliqueParizadeAn elegant atmosphere with a diverse, upscale menu mirroring Republique’s French-inspired dishes.
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and WafflesDame’s Chicken and WafflesOffers a soulful twist to the classic chicken and waffles combo.
In-N-Out BurgerOnlyBurgerA beloved local burger spot with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients reminiscent of In-N-Out.
Pizzeria MozzaPompieri PizzaCelebrates artisan pizza with unique, quality toppings and a passion for the craft similar to Pizzeria Mozza.
GuelaguetzaGoorshaOffers a bold, international flair with its Ethiopian cuisine, creating a communal dining experience akin to Guelaguetza’s Oaxacan meals.
The IvyVin RougeFine dining with a charming atmosphere, offering French cuisine that rivals the elegance of The Ivy.
NoMad Hotel RestaurantThe Durham Hotel RestaurantBoth are high-end hotel restaurants known for their stunning interiors and sophisticated menus.
Din Tai FungM SushiNot a dumpling house, but it offers exceptional quality and a meticulous approach to sushi, echoing Din Tai Fung’s dedication to excellence.
Grand Central MarketDurham Food HallA vibrant marketplace featuring a variety of local vendors and food options, reminiscent of the communal and diverse atmosphere of Grand Central Market.

Delving deeper into the comparison, Dame’s Chicken and Waffles in Durham captures the heart and soul of Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles. With its unique twist on the classic dish and a cozy atmosphere, it’s a spot that promises comfort with every bite. Meanwhile, Pompieri Pizza stands out with its commitment to sustainably sourced ingredients and a wood-fired oven that brings a touch of authenticity and flair to each pizza, much like what you’d expect from Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles. It’s these unique, local flavors and atmospheres that turn a meal out into a memorable experience, ensuring that even though you’re miles away from Los Angeles, you’ll discover new favorites that feel just like home.

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Los Angeles vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a pivotal role in relocation decisions, serving as the cornerstone of a smooth transition. Understanding how housing varies between two cities is vital for informed decision-making. Our comparison charts emphasize the real estate landscape, contrasting the vibrant and bustling city of Los Angeles, CA with the charming and burgeoning town of Durham, NC .

ComparisonLos AngelesDurham
Typical Architecture StyleModern, SpanishColonial, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPool, view, outdoor livingLarge yards, garages, proximity to research institutions

In the burgeoning real estate markets of Los Angeles and Durham, location and lifestyle preferences heavily influence housing decisions. Los Angeles, known for its expansive urban sprawl, offers modern homes with amenities like pools that cater to an outdoor living lifestyle. Meanwhile, Durham's real estate market is characterized by its affordability and proximity to major academic and research institutions, making it an enticing option for professionals and families alike. This juxtaposition between Los Angeles' focus on luxury and outdoor amenities and Durham's emphasis on spacious, value-oriented homes with convenient access to academic excellence showcases the diverse priorities of potential homebuyers considering these cities.

Los Angeles vs. Durham Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can be a significant change, especially in terms of weather. Understanding how Los Angeles weather compares to Durham's weather is crucial for proper preparation and adaptation. This comparison will guide you through what to expect as you transition from the sunny skies of Los Angeles, CA to the more varied climate of Durham, NC.

Summer icon
85°F/66°F

Los Angeles, CA

89°F/71°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F/48°F

Los Angeles, CA

50°F/30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Los Angeles, CA

48

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Los Angeles, CA

4

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLos AngelesDurham
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHurricanes, Thunderstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both cities enjoy a generous amount of sunshine annually, moving from Los Angeles to Durham will introduce you to more humidity and significant seasonal changes. Durham experiences a broader temperature range across seasons, with cooler winters and slightly hotter summers than Los Angeles. Additionally, Durham sees more rain and occasional snowfall, a stark contrast to the dryer Los Angeles climate. Preparing for hurricanes and thunderstorms should also be a new consideration, differing from the wildfires and earthquakes more common in Los Angeles. Adjusting your wardrobe and becoming familiar with local weather preparedness measures will be essential steps in making Durham feel like home.

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

Relocating can be a significant life change, especially when it involves a move from one city to another. Understanding the financial implications between Los Angeles, CA, and Durham, NC is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key economic differences and what they mean for your wallet.

ComparisonLos AngelesDurham
Avg. Household Income$70,372$71,343
Cost of Living Index136.496.6
State Income Tax9.35.25
Avg. Property Tax0.720.78
Avg. Sales Tax9.57.5
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Manufacturing, TechEducation, Health, Tech
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyConsiderableModerate
HomelessnessSignificantLower

When comparing Los Angeles and Durham, you'll notice distinct differences in the economic landscape. While the average household income is higher in Los Angeles, the cost of living and state income taxes significantly reduce disposable income. In contrast, Durham offers a lower cost of living and more favorable tax conditions, permitting a potentially more comfortable living standard despite the somewhat lower average income. Additionally, while Los Angeles is renowned for its entertainment and tech industries, Durham's strong emphasis on education, health, and tech presents unique job opportunities. Understanding these differences can help you financially plan your move more efficiently and akin to your lifestyle expectations.

Los Angeles vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC involves not just a change in scenery, but also a significant shift in the community you'll be living with. This brief overview offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup comparison between Los Angeles & Durham , providing insight into what you can expect from your new neighbors.

Los AngelesDurham
Political Make-upDemocraticDemocratic
Local PoliticsLiberal, progressive policiesProgressive, with strong emphasis on civil rights and social equity
ReligionDiverse: Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, etc.Primarily Christian, followed by other faiths

Los Angeles and Durham share a Democratic political leaning, but the way local politics manifests in each city can be quite different. In Durham, there's a notable focus on civil rights and social equity, reflecting the city's historical importance in the civil rights movement. Religion plays a vital role in both communities, though Los Angeles offers a more pronounced diversity of faiths compared to Durham's predominantly Christian landscape. Understanding these dynamics will help you better immerse yourself in your new home.

Los Angeles vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC, it's crucial to understand the differences in your daily commute and traffic. This comparison between Los Angeles & Durham will help you grasp what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in both cities.

ComparisonLos AngelesDurham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3022
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingDifficult

Los Angeles is infamous for its heavy traffic, with an average commute time significantly longer than Durham’s. Public transit is more available in Los Angeles, though relying on it exclusively can be challenging. In contrast, Durham presents fewer headaches with traffic congestion, making it easier for residents to navigate the city. However, its public transit system isn't as robust, making a car more necessary for efficient travel throughout the city. Understanding these key differences will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your new life in Durham.

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