Best San Diego to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,542 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 San Diego 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 The Rock 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 San Diego 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 San Diego to Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,542 miles from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC will cost on average $3,943 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Durham move is roughly $9,528. 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 | $2,644 | 300 ft³ | 8.81 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,943 | 450 ft³ | 8.76 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,534 | 750 ft³ | 8.71 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,528 | 1100 ft³ | 8.66 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,779 | 1600 ft³ | 8.61 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,412 | 1800 ft³ | 8.56 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (2022) |
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.
San Diego vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when you're navigating the transition between two cities. To ease this journey, we've crafted a comparison highlighting San Diego, CA & Durham, NC's local neighborhoods . This guide aims to help you find a new area in Durham that reminds you of your favorite San Diego neighborhood, making the unknown feel a bit more familiar.
| San Diego | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Hope Valley | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Pacific Beach | Trinity Park | Vibrant, youthful atmosphere |
| North Park | Old West Durham | Artsy, with local eateries |
| Hillcrest | Warehouse District | LGBTQ+-friendly, nightlife |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Downtown Durham | Historic, with bustling nightlife |
| Ocean Beach | Brightleaf | Relaxed vibe, boutique shopping |
| Little Italy | Ninth Street | Eclectic dining, walkable |
| Carmel Valley | Duke Forest | Family-oriented, green spaces |
| Del Mar | Treyburn | Exclusive, golf community |
| Coronado | Forest Hills | Historic homes, scenic views |
If the serene, upscale vibe of La Jolla with its stunning ocean views and high-end dining like George's at the Cove appeals to you, you'll find a similar charm in Hope Valley's spacious properties and local gems such as Foster's Market. On the other hand, North Park's eclectic mix of shops, craft beer bars, and the vibrant arts scene is mirrored in Old West Durham, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and unique local eateries like Elmo's Diner. Meanwhile, the historic architecture and cultural festivals of Gaslamp Quarter find a counterpart in Downtown Durham, where historic buildings house modern lofts, and yearly events bring the community together in celebration.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Durham
Moving across the country is a significant life change that requires careful consideration. This comparison aims to reflect San Diego, CA to Durham, NC relocation honestly, highlighting both the pros and cons to help you make a well-informed decision. Delve into the intricacies of each city to better understand what awaits you.
San Diego, CA- High living cost
- Heavy traffic
- Limited seasons
- Water scarcity
Durham, NC- Lower living cost
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
- Greener landscapes
Durham, NC- No beaches
- More humidity
- Smaller food scene
- Quieter nightlife
San Diego, CA- Beach access
- Sunny weather
- Diverse cuisine
- Vibrant nightlife
In San Diego, the convenience of having beaches like La Jolla Shores and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve just a short drive away is unparalleled, offering not only recreation but also breathtaking sunsets. The city's culinary scene is another highlight, with neighborhoods such as Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, home to renowned establishments like Juniper & Ivy, offering a diverse array of dining options. In contrast, Durham, while lacking in coastal amenities, makes up for it with its lush green spaces like West Point on the Eno and a close-knit community vibe reflected in its local markets and events. The transition might be challenging for beach lovers and those accustomed to San Diego's lively urban atmosphere, but Durham's lower cost of living, growing culinary scene, and distinct seasons present a refreshing change.
San Diego vs. Durham Food Guide
Food greatly reflects the essence of a locale, unveiling much about its culture and lifestyle. When considering a move, understanding the culinary landscape is crucial. In this guide, we embark on a flavorful journey to compare the local cuisine between San Diego & Durham , providing insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| San Diego | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Diego is renowned for its vibrant Mexican-inspired cuisine, with fish tacos and the California burrito standing out as city staples, reflecting the city's coastal and cultural identity. The health-conscious can find solace in the myriad of options, particularly in neighborhoods like Hillcrest and North Park, known for their trendy vegan cafes and restaurants. Durham, on the other hand, weaves a rich tapestry of Southern flavors, with pulled pork BBQ and food truck tacos highlighting the city's diverse and evolving food scene. The city’s food trucks, often found in downtown Durham, offer a vibrant taste of local and international cuisines, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Both cities cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, but Durham's burgeoning food scene, characterized by establishments like Nana's and Pizzeria Toro, brings a unique Southern charm to the table.
San Diego vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Food holds the power to make any place feel like home. As you prepare for your move from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC, this restaurant comparison will serve as your guide to discovering your new favorite dining spots, seamlessly transitioning your taste buds from the familiar to the excitingly new.
| San Diego | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Both offer an inventive twist on their respective cuisines in a chic, upscale setting. |
| Phil's BBQ | Picnic | Southern BBQ meets its match with both offering mouth-watering, smoked meats that are equally tender and flavorful. |
| The Fish Market | Locals Seafood Market & Oyster Bar | Offering fresh, locally-sourced seafood that's tantamount to San Diego's coastal catches. |
| Hodad's | Bull City Burger and Brewery | Both embody the essence of a classic American burger joint with a focus on quality and taste. |
| Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop | Chubby's Tacos | Diverse Mexican eats that promise flavor-packed tacos, mimicking Lucha Libre's eclectic vibe and tasty offerings. |
| Cucina Urbana | Gocciolina | A cozy spot serving Italian dishes that comfort and excite, parallel to Cucina Urbana’s rustic yet modern twist. |
| Cafe 21 | Foster's Market | Both serve up fresh, farm-to-table fare in a casual, inviting atmosphere, catering to the health-conscious eater. |
| Extraordinary Desserts | The Parlour | Artisan dessert spots that specialize in decadently crafted sweets, promising an extraordinary experience. |
| KINDRED | Alley Twenty Six | Though known for cocktails, the sophisticated ambiance and creative dishes draw a parallel to KINDRED's unique dining experience. |
| Mister A's | Counting House | Both offer a fine dining experience combining stunning views with masterfully prepared dishes. |
In your quest for culinary contentment in Durham, places like Mateo Bar de Tapas and Picnic become more than mere restaurants; they transform into havens of familiar flavors and new favorites. At Mateo, you will find an ambiance and a menu that effortlessly marries with the inventive spirit of Juniper & Ivy, calling to those who appreciate a modern twist on classic cuisine. Similarly, Picnic's dedication to barbecue mirrors the passion and quality found at Phil's BBQ, making it the go-to for those seeking comfort in the smoky taste of well-prepared meats. Between these establishments, you'll discover a culinary landscape in Durham that parallels the diversity and excitement of San Diego's food scene, ensuring that no matter where you dine, you'll always feel a little bit at home.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of your current and future homes is crucial. Understanding how San Diego and Durham stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can help inform your decision. Let's dive into the specifics.
| Comparison | San Diego | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish and Modern | Colonial and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views, Solar panels | Large yards, Proximity to Research Triangle Park |
While the median home price and monthly rent in San Diego are significantly higher than in Durham, the cost of living in California often comes with perks like ocean views and a strong push towards sustainability, reflected in popular features like solar panels. Durham, on the other hand, offers a more subdued urban lifestyle but boasts larger yard spaces and proximity to one of the nation's leading research hubs, Research Triangle Park. This comparison highlights the contrast in living experiences between the west and east coast, guiding potential movers in setting realistic expectations for their new homes.
San Diego vs. Durham Weather Considerations
When planning a move, assessing how the weather compares between San Diego and Durham is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison will help you understand the environmental changes you'll face, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new home's climate.
San Diego, CA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The key differences in climate between San Diego and Durham are noteworthy, especially concerning temperature variations and precipitation. While San Diego enjoys a mild climate year-round with minimal rainfall, making outdoor activities a year-long affair, Durham experiences a wider temperature range, with hot, humid summers and colder winters. Perhaps one of the most significant changes you'll face in Durham is the increase in annual rainfall and the occasional snowfall, contrasting with San Diego's drier conditions. Additionally, moving to Durham means adjusting to higher humidity levels and preparing for different natural disaster risks, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, compared to San Diego's earthquakes and wildfires.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Durham
Moving from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC? It's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions will change. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | San Diego | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 13.30% | 5.25% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76% | 0.84% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75% | 7.50% |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, International Trade, Research and Healthcare | Education, Healthcare, and Information Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When comparing these two cities, you'll find considerable differences in the cost of living and state income taxes, which are lower in Durham. Additionally, the primary industries shaping each city's economy vary, with Durham having a strong foothold in education, healthcare, and IT, potentially offering diverse job opportunities. While San Diego is known for its affluence, high cost of living, and significant homelessness rates, Durham presents itself as a more moderately priced option with a growing economic environment, which could translate to a more balanced lifestyle for newcomers.
San Diego vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
If you're planning a move from San Diego, CA, to Durham, NC, understanding the local community is key. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Durham, helping you grasp the cultural shift you might experience.
| San Diego | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse Representation | Progressive Leadership |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian community | Varied, with a strong university influence |
When you move from San Diego to Durham, you'll find that both cities boast a liberal political landscape, though the flavor of their local governance may differ. San Diego is known for its diverse representation within local politics, reflective of its large and varied population. Durham, meanwhile, is celebrated for its progressive leadership, often driven by the city's vibrant university community. Religion plays a varied role in both locales, with San Diego hosting a significant Christian community alongside various other faiths. In Durham, the presence of prestigious institutions like Duke University adds a unique blend of academic and faith-based influences to the city's religious scene.
San Diego vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Durham helps provide a clearer picture of what to expect when switching coasts.
| Comparison | San Diego | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
While both cities present their own set of challenges and benefits when it comes to commuting, there are notable differences. San Diego offers better public transportation options with services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, making it somewhat easier to get by without a car compared to Durham. However, Durham benefits from less traffic congestion, providing a smoother daily commute. San Diego's slightly higher traffic congestion reflects its larger population and vast network of highways. Ultimately, your lifestyle and work location will heavily influence whether or not living without a car is feasible in either city.
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