Best San Francisco to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,859 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 San Francisco 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 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco to Raleigh 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Raleigh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,859 miles from San Francisco, CA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $4,212 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Raleigh move is roughly $10,187. 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 | $2,823 | 300 ft³ | 9.41 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,212 | 450 ft³ | 9.36 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,983 | 750 ft³ | 9.31 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,187 | 1100 ft³ | 9.26 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,738 | 1600 ft³ | 9.21 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,490 | 1800 ft³ | 9.16 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Raleigh 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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 Francisco vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially when transitioning to a city that's unfamiliar. To ease this process, we've crafted a guide that will help you compare and contrast your beloved San Francisco neighborhoods with those in Raleigh, NC. By identifying similar local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Raleigh, NC , you'll gain insights into where you might feel most at home in your new city. Let's start this journey together.
| San Francisco | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Mission | Warehouse District | Vibrant arts scene and dining |
| Marina District | Five Points | Historical charm and bustling streets |
| Pacific Heights | Cameron Park | Upscale, historic homes, and green spaces |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Glenwood South | Eclectic nightlife and modern condos |
| Nob Hill | Hayes Barton | Exclusive, with a blend of old and new architecture |
| North Beach | Historic Oakwood | Storied past, great eateries, and arts |
| Haight-Ashbury | Boylan Heights | Bohemian vibe, historic homes and local art |
| Castro | Mordecai | Diverse, inclusive community with a rich history |
| Richmond District | North Hills | Family-friendly, with parks and shopping |
| Sunset District | Brier Creek | Suburban feel, close to nature and amenities |
In comparing these neighborhoods, you'll find elements of San Francisco's vibrant lifestyle mirrored throughout Raleigh, NC. For instance, the historical charm and bustling streets of Five Points in Raleigh evoke the Marina District's scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere, complete with access to local goods at places like Lafayette Village. In contrast, Cameron Park's upscale, historic homes and abundant green spaces offer a similar ambiance to Pacific Heights, however, with perhaps a more laid-back Southern charm. For those drawn to the arts and bohemian lifestyles, the Warehouse District in Raleigh, with its creative spaces like CAM Raleigh, echoes the dynamic and culturally rich Mission District. This comparison should offer a starting point to discovering your new favorite neighborhood in Raleigh that feels like a piece of home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Raleigh
Moving from one city to another involves weighing both sides of the scale. This guide provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Raleigh, NC. By examining the pros and cons, you'll be better prepared for the transition and what awaits in your new home.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Chilly summers
- Strict zoning laws
Raleigh, NC- Lower cost of living
- Less crowded
- Warmer climate
- More housing options
Raleigh, NC- Smaller tech scene
- Fewer landmarks
- Less diverse cuisine
- Car-dependent
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Iconic landmarks
- Global cuisine
- Extensive public transport
While the transition from San Francisco, CA to Raleigh, NC might mean saying goodbye to the bustling tech hubs of Silicon Valley and iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, it also opens up a new world of possibilities. Raleigh, affectionately known as the "City of Oaks," offers a warm and welcoming climate with an abundance of green spaces such as Pullen Park and the Raleigh Rose Garden. The Lower cost of living in Raleigh means you can enjoy spacious housing options and a lifestyle that may have been unattainable in San Francisco. While you may miss the global cuisine of San Francisco, Raleigh boasts its own culinary delights, with places like Brewery Bhavana and Poole's Diner offering unique dining experiences that are sure to make your new city feel like home.
San Francisco vs. Raleigh Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and living experience. This guide provides a comparative insight into the local cuisine between San Francisco & Raleigh , helping you understand the culinary landscape of your new home.
| San Francisco | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Eastern NC Barbecue |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Ramen | Vegan BBQ Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Francisco, the culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, with neighborhoods like the Mission District famous for its Mission Burritos or the Embarcadero, where one can visit historic spots like The Ferry Building. On the other hand, Raleigh embraces its culinary heritage with a significant focus on Southern cuisine, especially Eastern North Carolina barbecue. Brewery Bhavana in the heart of downtown Raleigh offers a unique dining experience combining a flower shop, bookstore, and brewery. For those looking into the health-conscious and vegan scenes, both cities offer ample options, though San Francisco is notably more vegan-friendly with a wider variety of vegan restaurants and alternatives.
San Francisco vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can turn a new city into home. For those moving from San Francisco to Raleigh, this comparison will help you discover local gems by using your beloved San Francisco spots as a guide. The purpose of these charts is to compare top restaurants from San Francisco to their closest counterparts in Raleigh, ensuring a smooth culinary transition for you.
| San Francisco | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| State Bird Provisions | Death & Taxes | A focus on American cuisine with a unique and modern twist |
| Zuni Café | Mandolin | Farm-to-table ethos with a Southern flair reminiscent of Zuni's approach to Californian cuisine |
| Tartine Bakery | La Farm Bakery | European-style breads with an exceptional commitment to quality |
| The Slanted Door | Bida Manda | A commitment to bold flavors and fresh ingredients in Southeast Asian cuisine |
| Nopa | Poole’s Diner | Both serve up contemporary American dishes in a trendy, bustling atmosphere |
| Benu | Brewery Bhavana | Offers a unique dining experience with an exquisite blend of Asian flavors |
| Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | Trophy Brewing & Pizza | Artisanal pizzas and craft beer that capture the essence of Tony’s |
| Swan Oyster Depot | 42nd Street Oyster Bar | Classic, high-quality seafood in a friendly, casual setting |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Two Roosters Ice Cream | Handcrafted ice creams that prioritize local ingredients |
| Foreign Cinema | Beasley’s Chicken + Honey | While not a direct cinema experience, Beasley’s offers an exceptional atmosphere with high-quality comfort food |
For those who cherish the innovative meals at State Bird Provisions in San Francisco, Death & Taxes in Raleigh will offer you a similarly enticing American cuisine, but with a unique and creative twist that reflects the locally sourced ethos.
Fans of Zuni Café’s unparalleled Californian cuisine will find a similar commitment to local, seasonal ingredients at Mandolin, which infuses its dishes with a distinct Southern charm. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados missing Tony’s Pizza Napoletana will delight in the artisanal pies and craft brews at Trophy Brewing & Pizza, where the dedication to quality mirrors that of San Francisco’s pizza icon. Both of these Raleigh establishments ensure that the spirit of your San Francisco favorites thrives, offering solace and excitement in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, evaluating real estate is crucial. This comparison between San Francisco and Raleigh highlights essential housing aspects to aid in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Colonial and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, luxury amenities | Spacious yards, family friendly |
Delving deeper, the architectural styles in San Francisco and Raleigh distinctly represent each city's culture and history. San Francisco, with its iconic Victorian homes and modern high-rises, mirrors its rich past and contemporary progress. Raleigh, on the other hand, features the charm of Colonial and Craftsman homes, reflecting a serene, family-oriented environment. The walkability in San Francisco is ideal for those who prefer an urban lifestyle, seamlessly blending daily accessibility to amenities with vibrant city life. Raleigh’s suburban feel offers spacious living and a slower pace, making it appealing for family life and those favoring larger living spaces without sacrificing community. These contrasts extend beyond mere appearances, embodying the lifestyle and values prevalent in each city.
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.
San Francisco vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the weather differences between San Francisco, CA and Raleigh, NC , to better prepare you for your relocation. Knowing what to expect can help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.
San Francisco, CA
Raleigh, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Raleigh, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In considering the move from San Francisco to Raleigh, one can notice significant changes, especially in terms of temperature and humidity. Raleigh experiences hotter summers with higher average highs and surprisingly, cooler winter lows. This contrast in temperature ranges could require a wardrobe adjustment. Additionally, the substantial difference in annual rainfall indicates Raleigh has a much wetter climate, which might affect your daily activities and lifestyle choices. Understanding these differences ensures you can better acclimate to your new surroundings in Raleigh.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Raleigh
When contemplating a move from San Francisco, CA to Raleigh, NC, it's crucial to grasp how your financial landscape will shift. This comparison focuses on money and finance-related aspects between San Francisco and Raleigh, providing a snapshot of what you might expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic conditions.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $74,612 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 98.2 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 0.86 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Lower |
Moving from San Francisco to Raleigh can significantly alter your financial situation. Despite San Francisco's considerably higher average household income, the cost of living there is also substantially greater. Raleigh offers a more moderate lifestyle, with a cost of living index just above the national average. The stark difference in state income tax rates further accentuates Raleigh's appeal for many seeking financial relief. However, the economic landscape changes as well; while both cities thrive on technology, San Francisco's affluence comes from its strong finance and tourism sectors, whereas Raleigh benefits from its robust education and healthcare industries. This shift influences not only your budget but also potential job opportunities and quality of life.
San Francisco vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
This quick guide aims to provide a snapshot of the differences in political and religious landscapes for individuals considering a move. This is a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Raleigh , offering insights into what one might expect when transitioning from the West to the East Coast.
| San Francisco | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mostly Democratic | Mix of Democratic and Republican |
| Local Politics | Liberal policies | Centrist policies |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Higher religious affiliation |
When moving from San Francisco to Raleigh, you'll find a shift in the political atmosphere. San Francisco is known for its strong Democratic leanings and liberal policies, touching on everything from environmental regulations to social justice issues. On the other hand, Raleigh presents a more balanced political landscape, where both Democratic and Republican perspectives shape local politics. This mix influences policies and community initiatives, creating a centrist political environment. Furthermore, Raleigh has a more significant religious presence, with various denominations playing a key role in the community fabric. This contrast extends beyond politics and into the daily social life, impacting festivals, local gatherings, and community services.
San Francisco vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Raleigh to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these cities. Each city offers unique challenges and conveniences when it comes to getting around, from commute times to the necessity of a car.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In San Francisco, the high score for public transit availability reflects a city well-connected by services like the BART and MUNI systems, allowing residents to navigate the city without the need for a car. In contrast, Raleigh's lower public transit score and a more favorable traffic congestion rating suggest a city more reliant on personal vehicles for transportation. While the average commute time in San Francisco is longer, the city's infrastructure supports a car-free lifestyle, unlike Raleigh, where having a car is almost a necessity to get around effectively.
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