Best Detroit to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 720 mile move from Michigan to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Detroit to Raleigh 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit 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 Detroit to Raleigh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | 8.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.44 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Raleigh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 720 miles from Detroit, MI to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $2,394 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Raleigh move is roughly $5,741. 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 | $1,611 | 300 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,394 | 450 ft³ | 5.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,952 | 750 ft³ | 5.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,741 | 1100 ft³ | 5.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,270 | 1600 ft³ | 5.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,214 | 1800 ft³ | 5.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Raleigh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Professional Movers.com
1001 Woodward Ave Suite 500
Detroit, MI, 48226
About Professional Movers.com
With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in statewide, cross-country,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 266582 / 178368 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 714,000 (2022) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
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.
Detroit vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel overwhelming, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide comparing the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Raleigh, NC. By paralleling top neighborhoods, we aim to help you find a new community in Raleigh that resonates with the vibe and lifestyle you cherished back in Detroit.
| Detroit | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Glenwood South | Vibrant nightlife and arts scene |
| Corktown | Boylan Heights | Historic homes with a youthful spirit |
| Downtown | Downtown Raleigh | Heart of the city's hustle and bustle |
| Woodbridge | Five Points | Diverse with a strong sense of community |
| Mexicantown | Fayetteville Street | Culinary diversity and culture |
| Eastern Market | Warehouse District | Artisan foods and lively markets |
| Palmer Woods | Hayes Barton | Affluent with historic charm |
| Rosedale Park | Oakwood | Family-friendly with historic homes |
| Indian Village | Bloomsbury | Elegant homes and manicured lawns |
| Boston-Edison | Cameron Village | Centrally located with a mix of homes and shopping |
For those who loved the community vibe and historical homes of Corktown, Boylan Heights in Raleigh offers a similar atmosphere with its historic homes populated by an eclectic mix of young professionals and families. Meanwhile, if the culinary diversity and rich culture of Mexicantown were what made you feel at home, you'll find Fayetteville Street a culinary haven, with a tapestry of flavors from around the world. For art lovers and market-goers, Raleigh's Warehouse District mirrors Detroit's Eastern Market with its bustling artisans, local eateries, and vibrant public markets such as the Raleigh Farmers Market. Each Raleigh neighborhood listed provides a distinct cultural and lifestyle parallel that former Detroit residents might find comforting and exciting as they explore their new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Raleigh
Moving between cities brings a mixed bag of changes. Here's a comparison that looks honestly at what relocating from Detroit, MI to Raleigh, NC entails. These charts are crafted to reflect the good and the bad , aiming to help you weigh your decision accurately.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rates
- Colder winters
- Economic challenges
- Lower income levels
- Less green space
- Smaller cultural scene
Raleigh, NC- Lower crime rates
- Milder winters
- Strong job market
- Higher average income
- Abundant parks
- Rich cultural offerings
Raleigh, NC- Lesser live music
- Newer constructions
- Fewer automotive ties
- Higher cost of living
- Lesser sports focus
- More transient population
Detroit, MI- Vibrant music scene
- Historic architecture
- Automotive legacy
- Lower cost of living
- Strong sports culture
- Loyal community feel
In deciding between Detroit and Raleigh, it's crucial to consider the lifestyle each city supports. Raleigh's varied parks and green spaces, like the extensive Capital Area Greenway, offer outdoor enthusiasts endless activities year-round, contrasting Detroit's urban sprawl. Raleigh's booming tech scene, anchored by the Research Triangle Park, presents vast career opportunities not as prevalent in Detroit's economy, which is heavily tied to the auto industry. Cultural aficionados moving from Detroit's storied musical and automotive heritage might miss the Motown Museum or the historical beauty of the Guardian Building but can explore Raleigh’s rich array of cultural offerings, including the North Carolina Museum of Art and the vibrant food scene featuring gems like Brewery Bhavana. Each city carries its unique pros and cons, influencing the lifestyle you'll lead. The choice between Detroit's enduring community spirit and Raleigh's innovative growth and warmer climate depends on personal priorities and career ambitions.
Detroit vs. Raleigh Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is crucial as food is a vibrant expression of local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Raleigh to give you a taste of what each city offers, helping you feel more at home in your new setting.
| Detroit | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Eastern NC BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Greek Gyros | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Coney Dogs | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Detroit to Raleigh, you’ll transition from the rich, comforting flavors of Coney Dogs and Detroit-style Pizza to the smoky, savory depths of Pulled Pork BBQ and Eastern NC BBQ. In Raleigh, neighborhoods like Fayetteville Street and the Warehouse District are culinary hotspots, offering a blend of traditional Southern cuisine and innovative culinary concepts. Iconic restaurants such as The Pit in Raleigh’s Warehouse District provide an authentic North Carolina BBQ experience, showcasing the city’s affection for slow-cooked meats. The growth of food trucks and vegan-friendly options in Raleigh also reflects a dynamic, inclusive food scene eager to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Detroit vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering local culinary delights. This restaurant comparison, from Detroit to Raleigh , will guide you in uncovering your next favorite dining spots, making anywhere feel like home.
| Detroit | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern | Offers high-quality, seasonal dishes in a similarly upscale atmosphere. |
| Slows Bar BQ | The Pit | Authentic barbecue with an emphasis on traditional slow cooking methods. |
| Iridescence | Angus Barn | Renowned for its steak and wine selection, providing a luxurious dining experience akin to Iridescence. |
| Supino Pizzeria | Oakwood Pizza Box | Known for thin-crust, artisanal pizzas that remind one of Supino's quality. |
| Rose's Fine Food | Poole's Diner | Both are beloved for their comforting, high-quality diner classics made from scratch. |
| Detroit Vegan Soul | Fiction Kitchen | Offers innovative vegan dishes that cater to those looking for flavorful, plant-based options. |
| Roast | Death & Taxes | Both restaurants excel in offering a refined take on meat-centric dishes with exceptional attention to detail. |
| Xochimilco Restaurant | Jose and Sons | Celebrates authentic Mexican food with a creative twist, in a vibrant, culturally rich setting. |
| Lafayette Coney Island | The Roast Grill | A local favorite for hot dogs and comfort food, offering a taste of American nostalgia similar to Lafayette's. |
| Asta's Cucina | Caffe Luna | Both are cherished for their intimate atmosphere and authentic Italian dishes that promise a true taste of Italy. |
Each restaurant in this comparison has been carefully selected to ease the transition from Detroit to Raleigh, ensuring you don't have to compromise on culinary quality or variety. For instance, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern mirrors Selden Standard with its commitment to seasonal dishes and an upscale dining experience. Meanwhile, fans of Detroit Vegan Soul will find a comforting alternative in Raleigh's Fiction Kitchen, where the vegan fare is both imaginative and delightful. Oakwood Pizza Box serves as Raleigh's answer to Detroit's Supino Pizzeria, where the passion for artisanal, thin-crust pizzas is unmistakably shared. This guide is not just about finding similar restaurants; it's about discovering new favorites that resonate with your dining preferences and making your new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role in relocating, making it essential to understand how Detroit, MI, and Raleigh, NC, compare in terms of housing. From costs to lifestyle, this comparison will help you grasp the distinctive qualities of each city.
| Comparison | Detroit | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Bungalows | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Renovated Lofts | Green Spaces |
When comparing Detroit and Raleigh, notable differences emerge in housing costs and lifestyle. Detroit's housing market is significantly more affordable, with a median home price that allows for purchasing in areas closer to urban centers. Moreover, Detroit is celebrated for its historic bungalows and renovated lofts, which appeal to those who admire architectural charm and urban renewal. In contrast, Raleigh's higher median home price is matched by its preference for Colonial Revival architecture and abundance of green spaces, offering a different lifestyle focused more on suburban comfort and natural surroundings. Despite Raleigh's lower walkability score, its better bikeability reflects an infrastructure designed for cyclists, aligning with its overall commitment to green living.
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.
Detroit vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the weather in Detroit compares to Raleigh is crucial. This comparison will give you insights into what to expect and how to prepare for your new living environment.
Detroit, MI
Raleigh, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Raleigh, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Raleigh, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Raleigh, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Detroit to Raleigh means you'll experience warmer summers and milder winters. The significant increase in days of sunshine can enhance your outdoor activities in Raleigh. However, higher summer temperatures and humidity might require some adjustment. Additionally, while both cities face their share of natural disasters, Raleigh's proximity to the coast makes hurricanes a new consideration you should prepare for. Understanding these differences will help you acclimate to your new home more comfortably.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Raleigh
If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living , income levels, and taxes in Detroit, MI compare to those in Raleigh, NC . This will help you budget accordingly and set realistic financial expectations for your new home.
| Comparison | Detroit | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $74,612 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 98.2 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.8 | 0.93 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Health Services | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When moving from Detroit to Raleigh, you will notice significant differences in both income levels and living costs. For instance, the average household income in Raleigh is nearly double that of Detroit, reflecting Raleigh's more affluent economy, driven by booming technology and healthcare industries. However, this increase in affluence comes with a higher cost of living, about 33 points higher on the index than Detroit. It is also worth noting that while Raleigh has a higher sales tax, the property tax rate is significantly lower than in Detroit, potentially offering long-term homeowners savings. Understanding these economic and financial nuances is vital in preparing for your transition, helping you align your budget and expectations before the move.
Detroit vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between Detroit & Raleigh offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of both cities, providing a snapshot to better understand the communities you're transitioning between.
| Detroit | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Detroit Government | City of Raleigh Government |
| Religion | Christianity dominated, diverse religious communities | Christianity primary, growing diversity in religious beliefs |
When moving from Detroit to Raleigh, you'll find both cities have a Democratic-leaning political landscape, though Detroit shows a more pronounced preference. Engagement in local politics is active in both cities, with resources like the City of Detroit Government and City of Raleigh Government websites providing insights into current initiatives and community involvement. Religious life in Detroit is predominantly Christian, with a rich tapestry of other faiths reflecting its diverse population. Raleigh similarly upholds Christianity as its major religion but is experiencing a notable increase in religious diversity, embracing a broad spectrum of beliefs and communities. This reflects a trend towards greater cultural and religious inclusion in both cities.
Detroit vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Raleigh designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving from Detroit, MI to Raleigh, NC.
| Comparison | Detroit | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
In comparing the commuting experience between Detroit and Raleigh, it's important to highlight that both cities have relatively similar average commute times, with Detroit at 26 minutes and Raleigh slightly less at 25 minutes. However, Detroit experiences higher traffic congestion, potentially due to its denser urban landscape and reliance on automotive transportation. Public transit options are somewhat limited in both cities, but Detroit has a slight edge, likely reflecting its larger, more established network including the Detroit Department of Transportation services. Regardless, in both cities, having access to a car significantly broadens your mobility options, emphasizing the importance of personal vehicle ownership for convenience and efficiency in daily commutes.
Additional Resources
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