Best Boston to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 708 mile move from Massachusetts to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 66 Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston 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 Boston to Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 708 miles from Boston, MA to Durham, NC will cost on average $2,026 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Durham move is roughly $4,858. 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 | $1,363 | 300 ft³ | 4.54 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,026 | 450 ft³ | 4.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,344 | 750 ft³ | 4.46 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,858 | 1100 ft³ | 4.42 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,999 | 1600 ft³ | 4.37 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,797 | 1800 ft³ | 4.33 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (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
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) |
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.
Boston vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating to a new city can be much smoother when you can compare it to what you already know. That's why we've created a guide to help compare local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Durham, NC . By understanding which neighborhood in Durham mirrors the one you love in Boston, you can start to feel at home even before you arrive.
| Boston | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | Trinity Park | Historic homes, vibrant community feel |
| Beacon Hill | Old West Durham | Quaint, tree-lined streets |
| North End | Warehouse District | Rich history, culinary scene |
| South End | Cleveland-Holloway | Diverse, artistic vibe |
| Fenway | Ninth Street | Lively, with entertainment options |
| South Boston | Brightleaf | Growing, vibrant community |
| Jamaica Plain | Hope Valley | Green spaces, inclusive atmosphere |
| Charlestown | Woodcroft | Family-friendly, with historic charm |
| Seaport District | American Tobacco District | Modern, with waterfront views |
| Allston-Brighton | Geer Street | Young, energetic community |
For those who love the historic charm of Back Bay with its iconic Victorian brownstones and vibrant atmosphere, Trinity Park in Durham will charm you with similar historic homes and a strong community feel. Fans of the rich Italian culture and bustling streets of Boston's North End will find a delightful culinary scene in Durham's Warehouse District, reminiscent of the lively European ambiance. For those drawn to the artistic and diverse culture of the South End in Boston, Cleveland-Holloway in Durham offers an eclectic vibe with its vibrant arts scene and inclusive community. Moreover, the transformation of Boston's Seaport District into a modern, waterfront hub finds a parallel in Durham's American Tobacco District, where historic industrial spaces are repurposed into dynamic areas for living, working, and entertainment, reflecting a fusion of history with modernity.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Durham
Moving from one city to another can be a profound change, laden with both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. Through comparing the pros of Boston, MA and Durham, NC , this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes associated with this relocation. Let’s explore what you might gain and lose in this significant transition.
Boston, MA- Higher living costs
- Cold winters
- Dense traffic
- Smaller city feel
Durham, NC- Lower living costs
- Milder winters
- Less congestion
- More suburban areas
Durham, NC- Less historical sites
- Fewer cultural institutions
- Less seafood variety
- More car-dependent
Boston, MA- Rich history
- Vast cultural offerings
- Abundant seafood
- Highly walkable
Moving to Durham from Boston presents an enticing opportunity for a more affordable lifestyle, courtesy of the significantly lower living costs. You'll find your budget stretches further here, particularly when it comes to housing and daily expenses. Moreover, Durham's milder winter climate is a pleasant departure from Boston's harsh snowy months, offering more outdoor activities year-round. Despite missing out on Boston's rich tapestry of history and its bustling seafood scene, Durham compensates with its own vibrant cultural scene. Places like Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) and the historic Brightleaf Square provide unique entertainment and shopping experiences. Plus, the city's emerging culinary scene, including renowned spots like Pizzeria Toro, ensure you're never far from exceptional dining. While Durham's spread-out nature may decrease walkability, the shift encourages exploration of quaint neighborhoods and surrounding areas, revealing a different, but equally enriching, community fabric.
Boston vs. Durham Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is essential when relocating, as food is a significant part of local culture and everyday living. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Durham, NC ; by exploring these culinary landscapes, you can get a taste of what each city has to offer and make a more informed decision about your upcoming move.
| Boston | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | New England Clam Chowder | Carolina-style BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Pulled Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Italian Sausage | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Vegan Barbecue |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you relocate from Boston to Durham, you'll exchange the iconic New England Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls for the smoky flavors of Carolina-style BBQ and pulled pork sandwiches. Boston's food scene thrives on its seafood and historic eateries, like Legal Sea Foods and Union Oyster House, reflecting its coastal heritage. In contrast, Durham offers a dynamic blend of Southern comfort food with a modern twist, showcased at places like Poole's Diner and Pizzeria Toro. The vibrant food truck scene in Durham, driven by a diverse range of flavors including Mexican tacos and vegan barbecue, offers an adventurous culinary experience. While both cities cater well to fitness and health-conscious individuals, Durham slightly edges out with its vegan offerings and food truck abundance, making it a haven for foodies in search of variety and innovation.
Boston vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city is more than just finding a new place to live; it’s about making that city feel like home. One way to do this is by discovering the local culinary scene. This restaurant comparison from Boston, MA to Durham, NC will help you find your new favorite spots using your current hometown favorites as a guide.
| Boston | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Neptune Oyster | Saint James Seafood | Fresh seafood and oyster bar similar to Neptune Oyster's offerings |
| Oleana | Parizade | Mediterranean cuisine that mirrors Oleana's creative and flavorful dishes |
| Mike's Pastry | East Durham Bake Shop | Known for desserts and pastries reminiscent of Mike's Pastry |
| No. 9 Park | Counting House | Offers a refined dining experience similar to No. 9 Park |
| Toro | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Spanish tapas bar that echoes Toro's approach to cuisine |
| Union Oyster House | Blu Seafood and Bar | A place where seafood enthusiasts can find similar historic charm and quality |
| Flour Bakery + Cafe | Foster's Market | A casual eatery with a variety of baked goods and comfort food similar to Flour Bakery + Cafe |
| Giacomo's Ristorante | Gocciolina | Italian dishes that bring the warmth and authenticity of Giacomo's Ristorante |
| Sarma | Mez Contemporary Mexican | Though not a direct cuisine match, Mez offers a similar inventive twist on traditional dishes |
| Regina Pizzeria | Pizzeria Toro | Wood-fired pizzas that draw inspiration from Regina Pizzeria’s storied tradition |
For those who delight in the culinary diversity and richness of Boston, transitioning to Durham doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love. You'll discover places like Saint James Seafood that offer a vivid reminder of Neptune Oyster's fresh catches, and Gocciolina, an Italian haven reminiscent of Giacomo's Ristorante, where the authenticity and warmth in every dish will instantly feel familiar. Not to mention, Mateo Bar de Tapas stands as a testament to exceptional Spanish fare, revitalizing the experience once found at Toro but with its unique Southern charm and hospitality. This guide is not just about finding a meal; it's about rediscovering the tastes of home within a new and vibrant food scene.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, the real estate landscape is a critical aspect to explore. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing between Boston, MA, and Durham, NC , focusing on key factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This insight will guide your decisions in one of the most crucial areas of relocation.
| Comparison | Boston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Brick Row Houses | Ranch, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transport, Historic details | Large backyards, Proximity to parks |
In-depth examination reveals that despite higher living costs, Boston offers a more vibrant urban lifestyle with better walkability and proximity to public transport, making it suitable for those who prioritize city living and historic charm in their housing. On the other hand, Durham provides a cost-effective alternative with more spacious living options and a focus on natural surroundings, perfect for individuals seeking a balance between urban amenities and the tranquility of suburban life. Choosing between the architectural heritage of Boston with its Victorian and brick row houses, and the more modern, spacious offerings like ranch and Craftsman styles in Durham will significantly depend on your lifestyle preferences and financial considerations.
Boston vs. Durham Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather you will experience is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA and Durham, NC weather will highlight key differences to help you prepare for your relocation.
Boston, MA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good with occasional concerns in summer |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Nor'easters | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Boston to Durham, one of the most noticeable changes will be in winter temperatures and snowfall. Durham experiences milder winters with significantly less snowfall compared to Boston, making winter activities very different between the two cities. While Durham offers more days of sunshine a year and slightly higher summer temperatures, it also comes with higher humidity levels, which can affect comfort during the hotter months. Additionally, being aware of the different natural disasters typical in Durham, such as hurricanes, will prepare you better for seasonal changes. Air quality and top seasonal allergies are quite similar, although the types of pollen and their peak times may vary.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Durham
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the variations in cost of living, income, and taxes between Boston and Durham is crucial for financial preparedness. This comparison helps you align your budget expectations with reality.
| Comparison | Boston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2 | 0.9 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 4.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Finance | Education, Health Services, Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lesser |
While Boston boasts a higher average household income compared to Durham, it's also accompanied by a notably higher cost of living, a factor crucial for budget planning. Interestingly, despite the gap in affluence, Durham offers competitive attributes like lower property and sales taxes, which can significantly affect your monthly expenditures. Notably, both cities emphasize education and health services among their top industries, promising robust employment opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances will ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and financial goals.
Boston vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup between Boston & Durham , offering a glimpse into the typical population characteristics of both cities. Whether you're curious about the local political atmosphere or the predominating religious beliefs, this comparison can help you understand what to expect as you make your move.
| Boston | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic stronghold | Progressive leanings |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic population | Diverse, with strong Baptist presence |
In both Boston and Durham, you'll find a liberal political makeup, though the local politics of each city have their own nuances; Boston is known for its longstanding Democratic stronghold, while Durham is recognized for its progressive leanings. Religion in both cities is diverse, reflecting the multicultural aspects of each locale. Boston has a significant Catholic population, anchored by institutions like the Archdiocese of Boston. In contrast, Durham hosts a strong Baptist presence, supported by establishments such as the First Calvary Baptist Church. Understanding these aspects can help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.
Boston vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA to Durham, NC requires adapting to new driving and public transit systems. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Durham will help you better understand the differences in daily commute and traffic, easing your transition.
| Comparison | Boston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In Boston, the public transit system, including the MBTA (or the "T"), offers extensive subway, bus, and ferry services, making it possible to navigate through the city without a personal vehicle. However, it's contrasted by higher traffic congestion. In Durham, while the commute time is generally shorter and traffic lighter, the public transit options are not as robust, leading to a higher dependency on personal vehicles. Understanding these logistics will help you plan your daily commute more effectively, whether that means investing in a car for Durham or familiarizing yourself with the MBTA in Boston.
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