Best Atlanta to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Atlanta to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 386 mile move from Georgia to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 Atlanta 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 Atlanta Home Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Atlanta 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 Atlanta to Durham Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Atlanta Home Movers | 9.42 | 9.64 | 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 | Midtown Moving | 9.26 | 9.5 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Wirks Moving and Storage | 8.98 | 8.75 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Atlanta to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 386 miles from Atlanta, GA to Durham, NC will cost on average $1,793 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Atlanta to Durham move is roughly $4,290. 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 | $1,208 | 300 ft³ | 4.03 |
1 Bedroom | $1,793 | 450 ft³ | 3.98 |
2 Bedrooms | $2,957 | 750 ft³ | 3.94 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,290 | 1100 ft³ | 3.90 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,171 | 1600 ft³ | 3.86 |
5+ Bedrooms | $6,866 | 1800 ft³ | 3.81 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Atlanta guide.
Compare the 5 Best Atlanta to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Atlanta Home Movers
3020 Canton Rd # 216
Marietta, GA, 30066
About Atlanta Home Movers
Founded in 2014, Atlanta Home Movers is a locally-owned moving company that provides services in and around Atlanta, including the communities...
Services
- Local Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3014107 / 1297339 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |

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

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
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) |

Midtown Moving

1830 Water Place #205
Atlanta, GA, 30339
About Midtown Moving
Midtown Moving & Storage is a fully licensed, bonded, and BBB-accredited moving company based in Atlanta, Georgia. With a strong focus...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing / Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3721565 / 1680118 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,000 (2024) |

Wirks Moving and Storage
1470 Field Park Cir NW
Marietta, GA, 30066
About Wirks Moving and Storage
There’s a reason Wirks Moving and Storage is a preferred mover for many real estate agencies. With over 12 years of...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1942465 / 699457 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 24 |
Registered Drivers | 15 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 330,210 (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.
Atlanta vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Familiarizing yourself with a new city can be daunting. This guide offers a comparison of popular neighborhoods to help you adjust to life in Durham, NC by using your knowledge of Atlanta, GA as a baseline. We'll highlight the local neighborhoods between Atlanta, GA & Durham, NC for a seamless transition.
Atlanta | Durham | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Midtown | Downtown Durham | Entertainment, arts, nightlife |
Virginia-Highland | Trinity Park | Historic homes, community vibe |
Buckhead | Hope Valley | High-end shopping, exclusive area |
Inman Park | Brightleaf District | Trendy spots, restaurants |
Old Fourth Ward | West End | Revitalized, cultural hub |
Grant Park | Duke Park | Family-friendly, park areas |
East Atlanta Village | Old West Durham | Eclectic, artsy vibe |
Ansley Park | Forest Hills | Leafy, residential charm |
Poncey-Highland | Rockwood | Hip hangouts, eateries |
West Midtown | Southpoint | Shopping, dining hotspots |
If you enjoy the bustling nightlife and arts scene in Midtown, you'll feel right at home in Downtown Durham with its vibrant entertainment and cultural offerings. Trinity Park, much like Virginia-Highland, features charming historic homes and a strong community vibe, perfect for a cozy neighborhood feel. For upscale shopping and exclusive living, Hope Valley in Durham offers a luxury experience similar to Buckhead. If trendy restaurants and lively spots excite you, exploring the Brightleaf District will remind you of Inman Park’s hip and happening places. Families will appreciate the green spaces and welcoming atmosphere of Duke Park, echoing the family-friendly and park-focused ambiance of Grant Park in Atlanta.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Atlanta to Durham
Moving from one city to another brings its set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to offer a balanced perspective on relocating from Atlanta, GA to Durham, NC , highlighting both the pros and cons. The purpose of the following charts is to provide an honest reflection of what changes you can expect, allowing you to weigh the bad against the good and vice versa in this significant life decision.
- Higher property costs
- Heavy traffic
- Hot summers
- Limited public transit
- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Milder climate
- Better public transit options
- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer restaurants
- Less frequent events
- Vibrant nightlife
- Large city amenities
- Diverse dining options
- Extensive cultural events
Relocating from Atlanta to Durham means transitioning from the bustling atmosphere of a large city to the charm of a smaller, yet rapidly growing, community. Durham is known for its welcoming neighborhoods, such as Trinity Park and Old West Durham, where the sense of community is strong, and green spaces like Sarah P. Duke Gardens offer tranquil outdoor experiences. Although you might find the dining scene less extensive than Atlanta's, restaurants like Mateo Bar de Tapas and Pizzeria Toro stand out for their quality and innovation. Cultural events, while less frequent, hold their unique appeal with venues like the Durham Performing Arts Center hosting a variety of shows. Overall, Durham offers a blend of affordability, quality of life, and an emerging cultural scene that can be a refreshing change from Atlanta's fast pace.
Atlanta vs. Durham Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Atlanta, GA, and Durham, NC, is crafted to enrich your understanding of the vibrant food scenes in both cities. As you prepare to move, appreciating the culinary landscape is crucial for immersing yourself into the local culture and lifestyle of your new home.
Atlanta | Durham | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Peach Cobbler | Carolina-style BBQ |
Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Pulled Pork Sandwich |
Most popular street food item | Chicken and Waffles | Food Truck Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan Soul Food | Jackfruit Tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you transition from Atlanta to Durham, you'll discover that both cities boast rich, diverse culinary scenes, from classic comfort foods to innovative vegan options. In Atlanta, indulging in Peach Cobbler or exploring the historic Ponce City Market for an array of dining options encapsulates the spirit of Southern hospitality and innovation. On the other hand, Durham welcomes you with its signature Carolina-style BBQ and a thriving food truck scene, especially around Downtown Durham and the American Tobacco District. Whether you're craving Dame's Chicken and Waffles or exploring the vegan-friendly fares at local cafes, Durham’s food scene is a testament to its evolving culinary landscape, balancing traditional Southern flavors with modern, health-conscious options.
Atlanta vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Deciding where to dine is a crucial part of making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to help you find your new favorite spots in Durham, NC, using your current Atlanta, GA favorites as a guide. By highlighting comparisons between the two cities' top restaurants, this guide intends to ease your transition from Atlanta to Durham .
Atlanta | Durham | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
The Varsity | Bull City Burger and Brewery | Similar because of its iconic status and classic American fare. |
Gunshow | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Though a Spanish tapas place, it mirrors Gunshow's innovative and communal dining experience. |
Antico Pizza Napoletana | Pizzeria Toro | Both are known for authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. |
Staplehouse | Parizade | Offers a similarly upscale dining experience with a focus on quality and creativity. |
Miller Union | Gocciolina | While Italian in focus, it shares Miller Union's dedication to farm-to-table principles. |
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q | The Pit | Classic Southern BBQ with a strong reputation for quality and flavor. |
Le Fat | M Sushi | Both provide high-quality, innovative takes on their respective cuisines (Vietnamese and Japanese). |
Mary Mac's Tea Room | Dame's Chicken and Waffles | Both offer beloved Southern classics that make you feel at home. |
Atlas | Counting House | Known for its artful presentation and upscale, modern cuisine, akin to Atlas. |
Busy Bee Café | Pompieri Pizza | Though primarily a pizza place, it's loved for its casual, yet high-quality dining experience. |
Whilst each establishment boasts its unique charm, parallels can be drawn based on cuisine, dining experience, and the eagerness to provide memorable meals. For instance, making the transition from the iconic Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q to Durham's The Pit will feel seamless for BBQ aficionados in search of tender, smoky meats. Similarly, fans of Antico Pizza Napoletana's wood-fired pizzas will find solace and satisfaction in the Neapolitan pies served up at Pizzeria Toro. Each pair isn't just about similar dishes; it's about capturing the essence and atmosphere that made you fall in love with your Atlanta favorites, ensuring Durham feels like home, one meal at a time.

Ready to start your move?
Atlanta vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. Understanding how Atlanta, GA and Durham, NC compare in terms of housing can significantly impact your decision. This comparison will delve into cost, architecture, and lifestyle features to give you a comprehensive overview.
Comparison | Atlanta | Durham |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Craftsman | Colonial, Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Large kitchens | Spacious yards, Garage space |
When comparing Atlanta and Durham, the median home prices and rent suggest that Durham is a more affordable option. However, Atlanta boasts a slightly higher urban lifestyle rating, indicative of its vibrant culture and array of amenities. The architecture styles also reflect the cities' unique characters, with Atlanta favoring modern and craftsman styles, whereas Durham homes often feature colonial or ranch designs. For those valuing outdoor space, Durham listings frequently highlight spacious yards—a contrast to Atlanta's emphasis on hardwood floors and large kitchens. This detailed overview can guide you in finding a city that matches your housing preferences and lifestyle needs.
Atlanta vs. Durham Weather Considerations
Considering a move from Atlanta, GA, to Durham, NC? Understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you grasp what kind of weather changes to expect, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new environment in Atlanta and Durham .
Atlanta, GA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Atlanta, GA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Atlanta, GA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Atlanta, GA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Atlanta | Durham |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Thunderstorms, Tornadoes | Thunderstorms, Hurricanes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Atlanta and Durham enjoy similar average summer high temperatures, you might find winters slightly colder in Durham. Interestingly, Durham experiences a slightly higher number of sunny days per year compared to Atlanta, which might come as a pleasant surprise. Moreover, while both cities suffer from pollen as a top seasonal allergy, Durham generally boasts better air quality than Atlanta. Understanding these nuances can greatly assist in your acclimation to Durham's weather, offering a hint at minor adjustments you'll want to consider for your wardrobe and possibly your daily routine.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Atlanta to Durham
When planning to move from one city to another, understanding the differences in financial aspects such as the cost of living, taxes, and average income is crucial. This information can help you prepare for the financial changes ahead. Let's dive into how Atlanta, GA stacks up against Durham, NC regarding money and finance considerations for potential movers.
Comparison | Atlanta | Durham |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $74,107 | $71,343 |
Cost of Living Index | 95.6 | 96.6 |
State Income Tax | 1-5.75 | Flat 5.25 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.94 | 0.84 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.9 | 7.5 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Media | Education, Health, Technology |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Moderate | Low |
Homelessness | High | Low |
In comparing financial factors between Atlanta and Durham , it's evident that while average household incomes are slightly lower in Durham, the cost of living is more affordable, offering a balanced economic scenario for new residents. Another significant consideration is state income tax; Georgia's variable rates contrast with North Carolina's flat rate, which could impact your take-home pay depending on your income level. However, Durham shines in affordability, with lower sales and property taxes, making everyday living potentially less burdensome. Additionally, each city's top industries suggest a diverse economic landscape, providing varied employment opportunities depending on your field of expertise.
Atlanta vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Atlanta, GA, to Durham, NC, and curious about how your new neighbors might lean politically or what religious communities you'll find? This quick guide provides a comparison of the politics between Atlanta & Durham alongside a snapshot of religious backgrounds in both cities, offering insights into the cultural landscape you're moving into.
Atlanta | Durham | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
Local Politics | Diverse representation | Progressive leadership |
Religion | Mix of Protestant, Catholic, and non-religious | Diverse with a significant Protestant presence |
In both Atlanta and Durham, you'll find a liberal/democratic political makeup, although each city expresses its political culture in unique ways. Atlanta is known for its diverse representation in local politics, reflecting its status as a major urban center with a rich history of civil rights activism. Durham, while smaller, boasts a progressive leadership that has been proactive in addressing social issues and fostering community development. Religiously, both cities offer a variety of communities, though Atlanta's demographic is slightly more diverse, including Protestants, Catholics, and a significant number of non-religious residents. Durham's religious landscape is similarly varied, but with a notable Protestant presence. Whether you're politically active or searching for a religious community, both cities provide a welcoming environment with opportunities to engage.
Atlanta vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in Atlanta, GA & Durham, NC will help you better navigate your daily commute and adjust to traffic patterns. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when moving from one city to the other.
Comparison | Atlanta | Durham |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
When moving from Atlanta to Durham, you'll notice a significant change in the average commute times and traffic congestion. Atlanta, well-known for its bustling streets and heavy traffic, presents a longer commute time on average compared to Durham's more laid-back driving conditions. Though Atlanta scores higher in terms of public transit availability, thanks to services like MARTA, Durham's smaller scale may make getting around without a car more feasible for some, albeit with limitations. Adapting to these differences will be a key factor in your transition between these two cities.



Additional Resources
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