Best Oakland to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,821 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 Oakland 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 Oakland to Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Oakland to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,821 miles from Oakland, CA to Durham, NC will cost on average $4,180 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Durham move is roughly $10,108. 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 | $2,802 | 300 ft³ | 9.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,180 | 450 ft³ | 9.29 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,929 | 750 ft³ | 9.24 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,108 | 1100 ft³ | 9.19 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,623 | 1600 ft³ | 9.14 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,361 | 1800 ft³ | 9.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
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.
Oakland vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world. To ease this transition, understanding your new environment through the neighborhoods you know can be incredibly helpful. This guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Durham, NC . Discover which areas in Durham mirror those you love in Oakland, making your move a little less daunting.
| Oakland | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Trinity Park | Historic homes, vibrant community feel |
| Montclair | Hope Valley | Lush, green spaces with upscale living |
| Piedmont | Old West Durham | Family-friendly, walkable streets |
| Temescal | Ninth Street | Eclectic shops, diverse dining options |
| Jack London Square | American Tobacco District | Waterfront dining, entertainment |
| Grand Lake | Geer Street | Popular for nightlife, local eateries |
| West Oakland | Golden Belt | Creative spaces, burgeoning arts scene |
| North Oakland | Warehouse District | Urban living, vibrant nightlife |
| Lake Merritt | Forest Hills | Serene waterside living, community-focused |
| Dimond District | Cleveland-Holloway | Diverse, with historic charm |
For instance, if Rockridge's lively streets lined with boutique shops and gourmet restaurants have won your heart in Oakland, you'll find a similar vibrance in Durham's Trinity Park. This neighborhood not only revels in historic architectural beauty but also offers a strong sense of community.The American Tobacco District in Durham, with its unique blend of historical buildings and modern amenities, mirrors the waterfront charm and bustling atmosphere of Jack London Square. It's perfect for those who enjoy dining alfresco or attending events right by the water. And if the eclectic and foodie-loved Temescal has been your go-to, Ninth Street's variety of eateries and indie shops in Durham will feel like home. From the artisan coffee shops like Cocoa Cinnamon to local bookstores, there's an undeniable charm waiting for you.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Durham
Moving across the country comes with its share of challenges and advantages. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of Oakland, CA, and Durham, NC, highlighting what changes you might expect. Whether it's the cost of living, culture, or climate, understanding the pros and cons can ease the transition and set realistic expectations for your new home in Durham.
Oakland, CA- Higher living costs
- Traffic congestion
- Denser population
- Variable climate
Durham, NC- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- More space
- Milder climate
Durham, NC- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer art venues
- Less variety in dining
- Smaller job market
Oakland, CA- Cultural diversity
- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse cuisine
- Major tech hub
Moving from Oakland to Durham, you are transitioning from a bustling city recognized for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene to a smaller, but growing community with a strong sense of local identity. While you might miss the unmatched variety of dining options in Oakland, like the famous ShakeWell or the authentic flavors of Cholita Linda, Durham offers its own culinary gems such as Pompieri Pizza and the homestyle cooking of Dame's Chicken & Waffles. Despite having fewer art venues than Oakland, Durham boasts unique cultural sites like the Carolina Theatre and hosts vibrant community events that reflect its rich history and growing diversity. This shift to Durham, although marked by some trade-offs, presents an exciting chance to embrace new experiences in a city that prides itself on a strong sense of community and a slower, more laid-back lifestyle.
Oakland vs. Durham Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and the lifestyle of an area you're moving to. This guide aims to ease your transition by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Durham so you can savor the flavors of your new home.
| Oakland | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | North Carolina BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | BBQ Tempeh |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move from Oakland to Durham, you'll notice distinct shifts in the local cuisine. While Oakland's food scene is renowned for its innovative vegan dishes and iconic sourdough bread, Durham proudly showcases its mastery of traditional North Carolina BBQ, particularly its pulled pork. Food trucks play a significant role in both cities, though Durham slightly edges out with its array of food truck burgers. For those looking to dine out, Oakland offers gems like Chez Panisse for a taste of culinary history, while Durham's Nana's Restaurant provides a quintessential Southern dining experience. Both cities cater well to health-conscious individuals, though Oakland slightly leads with its abundant vegan options and overall health conscientiousness.
Oakland vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in turning a new city into home by comforting and familiarizing us with our surroundings. This comparison is designed to help you in your move from Oakland, CA to Durham, NC, by matching your favorite Oakland eateries with Durham's comparable locales, easing the transition and whetting your appetite for new culinary adventures.
| Oakland | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Both offer intricate dishes in an upscale, yet cozy atmosphere. |
| Shakewell | Bar Virgile | Creative cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired eats make both spots stand out. |
| Pizzaiolo | Pizzeria Toro | Wood-fired pizzas and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients connect these two. |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Both celebrate soul food with a modern twist and a dedication to comfort. |
| Mama's Royal Cafe | Elmo's Diner | Each offers a classic diner experience with a locally loved menu and warm atmosphere. |
| Homeroom | Monuts | While Monuts leans towards doughnuts, both share an artisan approach to casual, comforting eats. |
| Belotti Ristorante E Bottega | Mother & Sons Trattoria | Authentic Italian dishes crafted with passion and precision define both venues. |
| Chop Bar | Geer Street Garden | A relaxed, friendly vibe with a focus on locally sourced ingredients links these spots. |
| Dragon Gate | Happy China | Both places are cherished for bringing authentic Asian flavors and dishes to the locals. |
| Señor Sisig | COPA | Embracing the fusion of traditional and modern flavors, both serve up a unique culinary experience. |
Whether you're reminiscing over the intricate layers of flavors found at Commis with a similar experience awaiting at Mateo Bar de Tapas, or looking for that comforting bite of soul food from Brown Sugar Kitchen reflected in the dishes at Dame's Chicken & Waffles, the journey from Oakland to Durham promises to be a delicious one. Mateo Bar de Tapas is not just about Spanish cuisine; it's an immersive experience that reminds one of the refined yet intimate dining at Commis. Meanwhile, adapting to Durham's culinary scene will be a breeze with Dame's Chicken & Waffles, where the commitment to soul food matches the heart and soul put into every dish at Brown Sugar Kitchen, ensuring your new food journey in Durham feels just like home.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate can majorly impact your relocation experience. Comparing the housing characteristics of Oakland, CA, and Durham, NC, helps discern vital differences and similarities, streamlining your move. This assessment takes into account cost, architecture, and lifestyle between these two cities.
| Comparison | Oakland | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Craftsman | Colonial Revival and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to San Francisco, eco-friendly updates | Spacious yards, family-friendly neighborhoods |
Moving from Oakland to Durham introduces a notable shift in housing costs, suggesting a more affordable living situation in Durham. The difference in median home prices and rents highlights Durham's lower cost of living. Architecture in Durham tends towards the Colonial Revival and Ranch styles, offering a distinct aesthetic from Oakland's Victorian and Craftsman homes. Despite a higher urban lifestyle and walkability rating in Oakland, Durham's spacious yards and family-friendly neighborhoods mentioned in real estate listings indicate a strong community-oriented vibe, contrasting greatly with Oakland’s urban proximity and eco-friendly living. This fundamental difference shapes not merely the physical but also the social landscape you'll be moving into.
Oakland vs. Durham Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Oakland, CA, to Durham, NC, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new home compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you prepare better for the seasonal changes, air quality, and average temperatures you'll experience in Oakland and Durham.
Oakland, CA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Oakland and Durham enjoy relatively mild winters, Durham experiences more extreme seasons with hotter summers and colder winters. Furthermore, Durham's higher annual rainfall leads to a more humid environment, which can significantly affect daily comfort and outdoor activities. Additionally, the difference in natural disasters, such as Oakland's higher risk of earthquakes and wildfires compared to Durham's hurricanes and tornadoes, highlights the importance of preparing for region-specific hazards. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared to make Durham your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Durham
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between Oakland and Durham, providing you with essential insights for your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Oakland | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 0.84 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Education, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Emerging |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
The transition from Oakland to Durham presents a considerable shift in financial landscape. While the average household income in Oakland is significantly higher, Durham enjoys a lower cost of living index. This disparity might not only impact your budgeting but also your lifestyle. The state income tax in Oakland is much steeper than in Durham; a factor that could influence your take-home pay. Additionally, while both cities have vibrant sectors in technology and healthcare, the slightly higher property tax in Durham is offset by its lower sales tax. This information illustrates the complex matrix of financial considerations that come into play, emphasizing the importance of understanding these differences.
Oakland vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another brings with it a profound shift in surroundings, community, and lifestyle. Our guide offers a quick look, providing an at-a-glance snapshot to help you compare the political and religious makeup of the residents between Oakland, CA & Durham, NC. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of the communities you're moving from and into.
| Oakland | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Much focus on social issues and equity | Progressive with an emphasis on education and local development |
| Religion | Diverse: Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, etc. | Primarily Christian, with a mix of other faiths |
In both Oakland and Durham, a Democratic political lean is evident, but the local political landscape varies, reflecting differing community priorities and challenges. Oakland has a reputation for its activism and social equity initiatives, which are deeply embedded in its local politics. In contrast, Durham places a strong emphasis on education and local development, reflecting its community's focus on progressive growth and inclusivity. Religion in both cities shows diversity, but with Christianity being predominant in Durham. This gives you a glimpse into the social fabric you're moving into, enabling a smoother transition into your new home.
Oakland vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving across the country comes with its share of changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute. In this guide, we will compare the traffic and transportation options between Oakland, CA & Durham, NC, to better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Oakland | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but challenging in some areas | Difficult without one |
In Oakland, you'll find that despite higher traffic congestion levels, the comprehensive public transit system, including BART and buses, makes navigating the city without a car feasible, if not always convenient. In contrast, Durham's lower traffic congestion is a plus, but its limited public transit options mean that having a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently. Additionally, the average commute time in Durham is significantly shorter, reflecting the smaller geographic size of the city and potentially a more localized work-life setup compared to the sprawling Bay Area.
Additional Resources
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