Best Charlotte to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charlotte to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,635 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Charlotte to Salinas 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 You Move Me Charlotte), 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 Charlotte compared to Salinas. 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.

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Best Charlotte to Salinas Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1You Move Me Charlotte9.329.23Authorized For HHGContact
2Road Haugs Moving & Storage9.069.1Authorized For HHGContact
3Bulldog Moving LLC9.008.42Authorized For HHGContact
4Mod Movers8.808.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Charlotte to Salinas

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,635 miles from Charlotte, NC to Salinas, CA will cost on average $4,022 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charlotte to Salinas move is roughly $9,722. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,696300 ft³8.99
1 Bedroom$4,022450 ft³8.94
2 Bedrooms$6,666750 ft³8.89
3 Bedrooms$9,7221100 ft³8.84
4 Bedrooms$14,0601600 ft³8.79
5+ Bedrooms$15,7281800 ft³8.74
*Please note: These North Carolina to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed NC to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Charlotte guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charlotte to Salinas Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

You Move Me Charlotte Logo

You Move Me Charlotte

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 2,826+ data points

4222 Barringer Dr

Charlotte, NC, 28217

About You Move Me Charlotte

You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Piano moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2518689 / 878140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2024)
View Full Review
1
Road Haugs Moving & Storage Logo

Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,682+ data points

2700 Hutchison McDonald Rd Suite A

Charlotte, NC, 28269

About Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing local residential moves,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Specialty Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2535952 / 882889

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
2
B

Bulldog Moving LLC

Superb9.00/10
based on 129+ data points

Charlotte, NC, 28202

About Bulldog Moving LLC

Bulldog Moving LLC is a reputable moving service in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company provides a range of services including local...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Residential Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1670218 / 613925

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved29,677 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.80/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Charlotte vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison of popular neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC & Salinas, CA . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Salinas that shares the qualities you love about your current Charlotte neighborhood.

CharlotteSalinasHow They're Similar
Myers ParkMaple ParkHistoric homes, lush landscapes
South EndOldtown SalinasVibrant arts, dining scene
DilworthSouth SalinasQuiet, family-friendly, historic
NoDaCreekbridgeModern, youthful, creative community
ElizabethLaurel WoodCharming, walkable, community-centric
Plaza MidwoodNorth SalinasEclectic, diverse, indie businesses
BallantyneHarrodUpscale, peaceful, family-oriented
UptownDowntown SalinasUrban lifestyle, cultural landmarks
MidtownWest SalinasShopping, convenience, mixed-use
BerewickToro ParkGrowing, new development, natural beauty

If you're charmed by the historic homes and lush landscapes of Myers Park in Charlotte, you'll find Maple Park in Salinas equally captivating with its well-preserved residences and verdant surroundings. For those who enjoy the vibrant arts and dining scene of South End, Oldtown Salinas offers a comparable lively atmosphere with a variety of local restaurants and entertainment options. Dilworth's quiet, family-friendly vibes are mirrored in South Salinas, where historic charm blends with a strong sense of community. Meanwhile, NoDa's modern, youthful spirit is reflected in Creekbridge, Salinas's home to a creative and growing community, showcasing new housing and amenities that cater to a dynamic, urban lifestyle.

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Things to Do in Salinas

  • Explore Pinnacles National Park.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
  • Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
  • Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
  • Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
  • Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
  • Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charlotte to Salinas

Moving from one city to another can be a significant decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the pros and cons of relocating from Charlotte, NC, to Salinas, CA, to help you weigh your options wisely. By examining the benefits and drawbacks side by side, you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • Lesser cultural diversity
  • Fewer organic farms
  • Longer winters
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Access to organic farms
  • Mild winters
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • More droughts
  • Narrower job market in agribusiness
  • Less urban nightlife
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Affordable housing
  • Lush greenery
  • Diverse job market
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods

Charlotte's lush greenery, found in places like Freedom Park, offers an inviting atmosphere for families and nature lovers, whereas in Salinas, you'll discover an emphasis on agriculture with its numerous organic farms like Earthbound Farm Organic. Moving to Salinas heralds a gateway to exploring the rich cultural diversity of the area, showcased in its variety of restaurants like Patria, which offers European-inspired dishes with a local twist. Although Salinas may present a higher cost of living compared to Charlotte, the trade-off includes being closer to breathtaking natural landscapes, such as the nearby Big Sur coastline, and enjoying a milder climate year-round. Deciding between Charlotte's more diverse job market and family-friendly neighborhoods and Salinas’s organic lifestyle and proximity to nature boils down to what you value more in your daily life and long-term aspirations.

Charlotte vs. Salinas Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Charlotte & Salinas serves to deepen your understanding of what each city has to offer food-wise. Acknowledging that food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and everyday living, this guide aims to equip you with insights into the culinary scenes of your current and future home.

CharlotteSalinas
Most iconic local food itemPulled Pork BBQArtichokes
Most popular meat dishFried ChickenCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemFried PicklesTacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegetable Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • First Awakenings
    • Gianni's Italian Deli
    • La Posta de Acapulco
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Charlotte, the barbecue scene, particularly for pulled pork, dominates, with establishments like Midwood Smokehouse standing out for their authentic flavors. Aside from meat-centric options, the city also embraces vegan options, such as BBQ jackfruit, which can be found at progressive eateries like Soul Gastrolounge. Upon moving to Salinas, you'll notice a shift towards Mexican cuisine, reflecting its rich Hispanic heritage. Tacos, especially those filled with locally-grown artichokes, are ubiquitous, showcasing Salinas's agricultural roots. For a unique breakfast or lunch experience, First Awakenings offers a lively introduction to Salinas's casual dining scene, whereas Gianni's Italian Deli provides a surprising, yet delightful, deviation with its Italian offerings.

Charlotte vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city doesn't mean you have to leave your favorite dishes behind. This comparative guide between Charlotte and Salinas will help you discover your next go-to restaurants, making the transition feel like you've never left home. By aligning your current food havens in Charlotte with Salinas's best, you're sure to find comfort in familiar flavors as you embark on this new chapter.

CharlotteSalinasWhat You'll Love
The Fig Tree RestaurantPatriaElegant dining with a European twist, similar in quality to The Fig Tree’s upscale offerings.
Good Food on MontfordGiorgio's Italian & PizzaOffers a cozy atmosphere with inventive dishes, mirroring Good Food on Montford's innovative menu.
Price's Chicken CoopEagle RestaurantKnown for its fried chicken, providing a comforting taste akin to Price's longstanding reputation.
Midwood SmokehouseSalinas City BBQSmokin’ hot BBQ dishes that could rival Midwood Smokehouse’s legendary smoked meats.
Carpe Diem RestaurantRancho CieloFarm-to-table dishes with a vibe and menu reminiscent of Carpe Diem’s New American cuisine.
HaberdishFarm Fresh Deli & CafeOffering comforting Southern-style dishes and a casual setting similar to Haberdish.
Soul GastroloungeGrowers PubA lively spot with innovative dishes and cocktails, offering an atmosphere that echoes Soul’s unique experience.
KiKi BistroPortobello'sA blend of casual and classy dining with a multicultural menu that closely aligns with KiKi Bistro’s eclectic offerings.
Optimist HallThe MarketAn array of local eateries under one roof, offering a diverse and communal dining scene similar to Optimist Hall.
BardoMonterey St. CaféHomey yet sophisticated plates that could easily share a menu with Bardo’s innovative small plates.

For those who treasure a fine dining experience, Patria in Salinas effortlessly bridges the gap left by The Fig Tree Restaurant in Charlotte, boasting an elegant setting and a European culinary twist that closely mirrors The Fig Tree's upscale dining experience. Meanwhile, barbecue enthusiasts will rejoice at Salinas City BBQ, where the smoky flavors and hearty portions give Midwood Smokehouse a run for its money. And when it comes to finding a casual yet inventive eatery, Giorgio's Italian & Pizza stands out as Salinas's answer to Good Food on Montford, offering a cozy atmosphere alongside a menu that’s both creative and comforting. Each establishment, from the upscale to the relaxed, offers a taste of familiarity for Charlotte transplants seeking their new favorite dining spots in Salinas.

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Ready to start your move?

Charlotte vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, it's crucial to evaluate real estate in Charlotte, NC and Salinas, CA . This comparison sheds light on the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyles in these cities, guiding you towards making an informed decision.

ComparisonCharlotteSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, ModernRanch, Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNew Appliances, Hardwood FloorsSpacious Yards, Proximity to Agriculture

In both Charlotte and Salinas, the real estate market reflects each city's unique culture and lifestyle. Charlotte's thriving urban setting is complemented by modern and colonial architecture, appealing to those seeking a dynamic city life. The mention of new appliances and hardwood floors in listings highlights the city's preference for modern conveniences and traditional aesthetics. Salinas, with its Mediterranean and ranch-style homes, offers a more laid-back environment, often with spacious yards that cater to outdoor living and a connection to the area's rich agricultural surroundings. Despite their differences, both cities offer distinct charms that cater to a variety of preferences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA

1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.

2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.

3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.

Charlotte vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to understand how your day-to-day life might change with the weather. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in weather patterns between Charlotte, NC , and Salinas, CA , helping you prepare for what's ahead.

Summer icon
89/67

Charlotte, NC

71/54

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/32

Charlotte, NC

62/44

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.63

Charlotte, NC

12.83

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
2.7

Charlotte, NC

0

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCharlotteSalinas
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, hailEarthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Charlotte to Salinas, you'll encounter milder summers and warmer winters, a significant change for those accustomed to the four distinct seasons of North Carolina. Salinas boasts more sunny days per year, which translates to more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. However, Salinas' higher humidity levels may not be as noticeable due to the cooler temperatures throughout the year. The contrast in natural disasters, with Charlotte's hurricanes and Salinas' earthquakes, highlights the importance of preparation for different emergencies. Air quality in Salinas is generally good, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charlotte to Salinas

If you're considering relocating, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects in your new city compare. Here's a focused comparison to aid your transition from Charlotte, NC to Salinas, CA, highlighting key financial differences to anticipate.

ComparisonCharlotteSalinas
Avg. Household Income$70,869$80,154
Cost of Living Index93.2136.4
State Income Tax5.259.3
Avg. Property Tax1.020.79
Avg. Sales Tax7.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Technology, AerospaceAgriculture, Manufacturing, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

When moving from Charlotte to Salinas, expect a noticeable increase in the cost of living, reflected in a higher cost of living index for Salinas. This is partially offset by higher average household incomes in Salinas, yet the state income and sales taxes are also more substantial there. Considering taxes might impact your take-home pay differently. Despite these financial recalibrations, Salinas boasts a strong agricultural and manufacturing base, contributing to its higher affluence metric compared to Charlotte. It's important to factor in how these aspects might affect your budget and lifestyle in your new city.

Charlotte vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for a move from Charlotte, NC to Salinas, CA, it's helpful to know more than just the cost of living and weather differences. This guide offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Charlotte & Salinas , providing a quick reference to the political leanings and religious landscape you can expect in your new home.

CharlotteSalinas
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsCity of Charlotte GovernmentCity of Salinas Government
ReligionMixed, Christian majorityPrimarily Christian, diverse religious presence

Understanding the political and religious makeup of your upcoming home can be pivotal in setting the right expectations. Charlotte's slight Democratic lean versus Salinas’s stronger Democratic tilt highlights a potential shift in the political atmosphere you'll encounter. With both cities active in local governance, accessible through their respective websites, you're encouraged to participate and stay informed on local issues. While both cities share a Christian majority, Salinas offers a more diverse religious presence, indicating a broader spectrum of communities and cultural practices which you may find enriching. Engaging with these aspects can greatly aide in your transition and integration within your new community.

Charlotte vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Making the move from Charlotte, NC to Salinas, CA? It's essential to understand how this transition will impact your daily commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charlotte & Salinas is crafted to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.

ComparisonCharlotteSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingModerate

Moving from Charlotte to Salinas, you'll notice a slight decrease in the average commute time, which could make your mornings a bit more relaxed. Salinas offers less traffic congestion compared to Charlotte, attributing to a smoother driving experience. However, public transit in both cities has room for improvement, though Salinas ranks slightly higher in availability, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car. But, it's imperative to note that while it’s moderately feasible to get by without a car in Salinas, certain areas outside the city center may still necessitate having your own vehicle for convenience.

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