Best Durham to Elk Grove Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Durham to Elk Grove and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,880 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Durham to Elk Grove 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 Raleigh Moving Company), 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 Durham compared to Elk Grove. 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 Durham to Elk Grove 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 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | House to Home Moving | 8.44 | 8.14 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | California Moving Systems | 7.84 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Durham to Elk Grove
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,880 miles from Durham, NC to Elk Grove, CA will cost on average $4,230 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Elk Grove move is roughly $10,231. 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 | $2,835 | 300 ft³ | 9.45 |
1 Bedroom | $4,230 | 450 ft³ | 9.40 |
2 Bedrooms | $7,013 | 750 ft³ | 9.35 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,231 | 1100 ft³ | 9.30 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,801 | 1600 ft³ | 9.25 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,561 | 1800 ft³ | 9.20 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Elk Grove to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham to Elk Grove 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

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) |

Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |

House to Home Moving
3298 Orange Grove Ave
North Highlands, CA, 95660
About House to Home Moving
Family-owned since 2010, House to Home Moving has been helping residents with its high-quality relocation services for a decade. This company...
Services
- Local and long distance moving services
- Specialized senior relocation (white glove)
- Packing and Unpacking, including materials
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2395707 / 823800 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2021) |

California Moving Systems
3801 Happy Ln
Sacramento, CA, 95827
About California Moving Systems
Since 1967, California Moving Systems has been a trusted moving and storage company in Sacramento. As a family-owned and operated business,...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 917138 / 740298 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 110,000 (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.
Durham vs. Elk Grove Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is crafted to ease your transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Elk Grove, CA . By identifying the similarities between popular neighborhoods in Durham with those in Elk Grove, we aim to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings seamlessly.
Durham | Elk Grove | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Trinity Park | Laguna West | Both have historic charm and community events |
Old North Durham | Fallbrook | Residential areas with a mix of housing types |
Hope Valley | Valley Hi North Laguna | Affluent areas with golf courses nearby |
Duke Park | Stone Lake | Close-knit communities with local parks |
Forest Hills | Quail Ridge | Both offer large, green spaces and family-friendly atmospheres |
American Tobacco District | Old Town Elk Grove | Vibrant areas with dining and entertainment |
Rockwood | Camden | Both have unique local businesses and eateries |
Sarah P. Duke Gardens | Elk Grove Regional Park | Both are large recreational spaces popular with locals |
Ninth Street | Elk Grove Blvd | Both are main streets with shops and cafes |
Brightleaf | Tributary Pointe | Both neighborhoods are growing with modern development |
In exploring your new city, you'll find that Elk Grove's Old Town mirrors the American Tobacco District's vibrant energy, with dining, shopping, and historical sites such as the Elk Grove Historical Society anchoring the community's rich cultural scene. Similarly, if you're leaving behind the lush, green expanses of Forest Hills, you'll appreciate Quail Ridge in Elk Grove, where parks like Bartholomew Park offer serene landscapes and ample space for family activities. And for those who enjoy the community and historic feel of Trinity Park, Laguna West's events, and lakes provide a similar welcoming vibe. Each of these Elk Grove neighborhoods brings a piece of your Durham life closer to your new California home, easing the transition and enriching your living experience.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Elk Grove
Moving can be a complex decision, teeming with both challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Durham, NC to Elk Grove, CA , shedding light on key factors to consider for your big move.
- Higher humidity
- Smaller tech scene
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer outdoor activities
- Milder climate
- Larger tech industry
- More cultural diversity
- Abundant outdoor options
- Higher cost of living
- More urban
- Fewer historical landmarks
- Less localized cuisine
- Lower cost of living
- Cozy, small-town vibe
- Rich historical sites
- Vibrant local food scene
While the move from Durham to Elk Grove comes with its share of challenges such as adjusting to a higher cost of living, the rewards can be plentiful. Elk Grove boasts a milder climate conducive to year-round outdoor activities, enhancing your quality of life with options like cycling in Elk Grove Regional Park or exploring the beauty of Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Likewise, Elk Grove's evolving tech industry and cultural diversity may present new professional and personal growth opportunities. Conversely, Durham’s vibrant local food scene, with renowned establishments like Pizzeria Toro, and its rich historical sites provide a unique cultural and culinary experience that Elk Grove's more urban environment might not match precisely. Still, Elk Grove’s abundance of new restaurants and shops brings its own charm and opportunities for exploration.
Durham vs. Elk Grove Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and Elk Grove, CA, showcasing food as a vital aspect of local culture and living. This guide aims to inform you about the food scene changes you’ll experience with your move.
Durham | Elk Grove | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Carolina-style BBQ | California rolls |
Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork | Tri-tip steak |
Most popular street food item | Hot dogs | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ jackfruit | Acai bowls |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Durham, you'll encounter a strong Southern culinary tradition with a modern twist. Carolina-style BBQ, especially pulled pork, is synonymous with the city's food landscape, often found in lively neighborhoods like Brightleaf and Ninth Street. Durham's innovative food trucks and vegan options like BBQ jackfruit also highlight its diverse and inclusive dining scene. On the other hand, Elk Grove offers a distinct Californian experience with its focus on fresh, farm-to-fork dishes. Californian rolls, tri-tip steaks, and tacos reflect the diverse cultural influences. Elk Grove's Old Town area is a hub for dining, where places like Boulevard Bistro offer a taste of local flavors. Additionally, the city's higher vegan-friendly rating is evident through the popularity of health-conscious foods like acai bowls.
Durham vs. Elk Grove Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city is an adventure, especially when it comes to finding your go-to spots for delicious meals. This comparison of top restaurants in Durham and Elk Grove will guide you in discovering your next favorite eateries, making the transition feel like home. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a cozy, casual meal, we've got you covered.
Durham | Elk Grove | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Mateo Bar de Tapas | Palermo Ristorante | Offers a European dining experience reminiscent of Mateo's Spanish tapas. |
Pizzeria Toro | Old Town Pizzeria | Known for hand-tossed, artisanal pizzas that match Pizzeria Toro's quality. |
Bull City Burger and Brewery | Brick House Restaurant & Lounge | Craft burgers and local brews reflect a similar ethos. |
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Baguette Bakery & Café | Cozy café vibes with a European flair comparable to Guglhupf's. |
NanaSteak | Boulevard Bistro | Elegant steakhouse dining offering a parallel upscale experience. |
Toast Paninoteca | Sheldon Wine Shop Bistro | Delightful paninis and a casual dining atmosphere akin to Toast. |
Dame's Chicken and Waffles | C&K Waffle House | For a comfort food fix that echoes Dame's soul-food charm. |
Foster's Market | MiMi's Café | Unique brunch and lunch options that share Foster's homemade appeal. |
The Federal | Elk Grove Brewery | Offers a similar pub experience with a variety of craft beers. |
Vin Rouge | Old Town Grill | Comparable upscale, yet casual dining with a focus on flavors. |
While the culinary scenes in Durham and Elk Grove are unique in their own right, there are delightful parallels that promise a satisfying dining experience. For instance, Pizzeria Toro and Old Town Pizzeria both take pride in their artisanal pizzas, focusing on quality ingredients and traditional methods to create pies that are truly memorable. Similarly, the upscale yet relaxed atmosphere of Vin Rouge finds a counterpart in Elk Grove's Old Town Grill, where diners can enjoy sophisticated dishes in a comfortable setting. When you choose to dine at these establishments, you're not just enjoying a meal; you're partaking in a local culinary tradition that mirrors the vibrant community spirit and rich flavors of your new home.

Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Elk Grove Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Here, we compare Durham, NC and Elk Grove, CA to provide insight into housing costs, styles, and livability. This comparison aims to inform your decision-making process.
Comparison | Durham | Elk Grove |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Ranch, Contemporary |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, large backyards | Solar panels, proximity to parks |
In comparing housing between Durham and Elk Grove, several factors stand out. Durham offers a more affordable entry point into homeownership and renting, which could be critical for budget-conscious movers. The city showcases a blend of Colonial and Craftsman architectural styles, giving it a distinct East Coast personality. Durham also scores higher in urban lifestyle, likely due to its vibrant downtown and cultural offerings. In contrast, Elk Grove, with its predominance of Ranch and Contemporary homes, emphasizes modern living and sustainability, as shown by the frequent listing of solar panels. Despite its lower walkability score, Elk Grove's higher bikeability rating and emphasis on parks speak to a community prioritizing outdoor activities and green living.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Elk Grove, CA
1. Laguna West: Known for its picturesque lakes and trails, Laguna West is perfect for long walks with your furry friend, ensuring they get plenty of exercise and fresh air.
2. Stonelake: This neighborhood boasts the Stonelake Clubhouse with its pet-friendly policies, and numerous green spaces perfect for playtime.
3. Old Town Elk Grove: With its welcoming atmosphere, Old Town Elk Grove hosts several pet-friendly events and has establishments like Old Town Plaza where you can enjoy outdoor dining with your pet by your side.
Durham vs. Elk Grove Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Durham, NC to Elk Grove, CA, it's essential to grasp how the weather might change. This comparison aims to prepare you for the weather shifts between Durham and Elk Grove , ensuring a smooth transition to your new climate.
Durham, NC
Elk Grove, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Elk Grove, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Elk Grove, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Elk Grove, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Durham | Elk Grove |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Durham and Elk Grove share similar summer temperature ranges, Elk Grove boasts more days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal location for sun-lovers. However, it's essential to note the higher average annual humidity in Elk Grove, which might surprise newcomers expecting a dry California climate. Moreover, while Durham faces the threat of hurricanes and tornadoes, Elk Grove's major natural disaster risks include earthquakes and wildfires, highlighting the importance of preparing for different types of emergency situations. Additionally, transitioning residents should be aware of the significant difference in annual rainfall, as Elk Grove receives far less rain than Durham, affecting everything from landscaping to outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Elk Grove
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare the financial aspects of each location. This comparison helps you understand how shifting from Durham, NC to Elk Grove, CA, will affect your wallet. It's all about knowing what to expect and planning your budget accordingly.
Comparison | Durham | Elk Grove |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $109,242 |
Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.81 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 8.75 |
Top 3 Industries | Education, Health, Biotechnology | Education, Health Services, Retail |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
Homelessness | Concerning | Moderate |
Moving from Durham to Elk Grove, you'll notice different financial climates due to their distinct economies and policies. The average household income is significantly higher in Elk Grove, which aligns with its more affluent status and slightly lower poverty rates. However, this comes at the cost of higher living expenses, including a notably higher cost of living index and state income tax. Such changes will necessally impact your budgeting, making it crucial to plan your finances carefully when relocating to accommodate these differences.
Durham vs. Elk Grove Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics between Durham & Elk Grove , focusing also on the religious makeup of these cities. It's designed to give a glance at the community you're leaving and the one you're joining.
Durham | Elk Grove | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderately Liberal/Democratic |
Local Politics | Civic engagement high, with policies focusing on social equity and community programs. | Strong community engagement, with an emphasis on education and local development. |
Religion | Christianity dominates, with a mix of other faiths. | Diverse religious communities including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism. |
When comparing Durham and Elk Grove, you'll find Durham leans more explicitly liberal in political orientation and has a variety of programs aimed at fostering social equity. The religious scene in Durham is predominantly Christian but is home to varied beliefs. In contrast, Elk Grove, while still leaning liberal, offers a slightly less politically charged atmosphere. The city is known for its dedication to education and local development, fostering a strong sense of community engagement. Elk Grove stands out for its religious diversity, including a significant number of residents practicing Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism, besides the predominant Christianity. This diversity in both politics and religion in Elk Grove may offer a fresh perspective and a vibrant new community to join.
Durham vs. Elk Grove Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Durham, NC, to Elk Grove, CA, it's essential to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Elk Grove will guide you through the differences.
Comparison | Durham | Elk Grove |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 35 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | No |
The average commute time in Elk Grove is longer than in Durham, suggesting that you might spend more time on the road when living in Elk Grove. With traffic congestion being less of a concern in Elk Grove compared to Durham, the additional commute time could be due to longer distances traveled rather than traffic jams. Public transit availability is limited in both cities, but Durham offers slightly better options, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car than in Elk Grove. However, in both cities, having a car enhances mobility significantly, underscoring the suburban nature of Elk Grove and the semi-urban character of Durham.



Additional Resources
Durham Moving Services
Popular Durham to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources