Best Durham to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Durham to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,538 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Durham to San Diego 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 The Rock Movers), 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 Durham compared to San Diego. 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 San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Durham to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,538 miles from Durham, NC to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,940 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to San Diego move is roughly $9,520. 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 | $2,641 | 300 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,940 | 450 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,528 | 750 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,520 | 1100 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,767 | 1600 ft³ | 8.60 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,398 | 1800 ft³ | 8.55 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
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) |
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. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be challenging, but comparing familiar neighborhoods can make the transition more manageable. Below, we’ll compare the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & San Diego, CA to help you get acquainted with San Diego by relating it to areas you already love in Durham.
| Durham | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Durham | Gaslamp Quarter | Vibrant nightlife and dining |
| Trinity Park | North Park | Historic homes and artsy vibe |
| Hope Valley | La Jolla | Upscale, residential beauty |
| Southpoint | Mission Valley | Shopping and modern living |
| Watts-Hillandale | Kensington | Tight-knit community feel |
| Rockwood | Hillcrest | Eclectic and inclusive |
| Old West Durham | South Park | Historical and trendy |
| Forest Hills | Talmadge | Family-friendly with parks |
| Brightleaf District | Little Italy | Dining and cultural vibe |
| Ninth Street District | University Heights | Youthful and vibrant |
If you love the vibrance of Downtown Durham, with its bustling nightlife and dining opportunities, you’ll feel right at home in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. Both areas offer a plethora of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. Alternatively, if you’re drawn to the historic homes and artistic atmosphere of Trinity Park, you might find North Park’s charming streets and trendy boutiques irresistible. For those used to Southpoint’s modern amenities and shopping, San Diego’s Mission Valley district similarly offers shopping centers and convenient city living. Each of these comparable neighborhoods should provide a reassuring sense of familiarity as you settle into your new city.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to San Diego
Moving from Durham, NC to San Diego, CA presents unique challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation , focusing on how the two cities differ. By examining the cons of leaving Durham alongside the pros of moving to San Diego, and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect from this transition.
Durham, NC- Smaller City
- Humid Summers
- Lesser Dining Options
- Fewer Beaches
San Diego, CA- Large Metropolis
- Mild Climate
- Diverse Cuisine
- Coastal Living
San Diego, CA- Higher Expenses
- Desert Landscape
- More Impersonal
- Competitive Market
Durham, NC- Lower Cost of Living
- Lush Greenery
- Community Feel
- Educational Opportunities
Relocating from Durham to San Diego means trading the cozy, community feel of neighborhoods like Brightleaf at the Park for the bustling, dynamic energy of areas like Little Italy, which is famed for its vibrant dining scene, featuring restaurants such as Born and Raised. While Durham boasts lush, green parks, stepping into Balboa Park in San Diego feels like entering a world of endless cultural experiences, with numerous museums, gardens, and the iconic San Diego Zoo. Beach lovers will relish swapping visits to man-made lakes for days spent at La Jolla Shores or Mission Beach. Despite the higher cost of living, many find that San Diego's mild climate and rich array of cultural and recreational activities more than make up for the financial adjustment.
Durham vs. San Diego Food Guide
When comparing the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and San Diego, CA, it's essential to acknowledge how food reflects the unique culture and lifestyle of an area. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of the culinary scene awaiting you in your new home.
| Durham | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pulled pork BBQ | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Carolina-style BBQ ribs | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Durham, NC, the local cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional Southern cooking, with pulled pork BBQ and Carolina-style ribs taking center stage. For health-conscious and plant-based diners, the BBQ Jackfruit has become an innovative and popular choice. Durham boasts original culinary experiences in restaurants such as Bull City Burger and Pompieri Pizza. Moving to San Diego, CA, prepares your palate for a shift to Mexican-inspired flavors, where fish tacos and Carne Asada rule. The city’s health and fitness consciousness is reflected in popular foods like the refreshing Acai Bowl. San Diego's vibrant food scene is supported by its abundance of food trucks and vegan-friendly options, making areas like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter must-visit destinations for food enthusiasts.
Durham vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering local dining spots is key to feeling at home. This comparison chart from Durham to San Diego will guide you in finding new favorite eateries based on your tastes in Durham's diverse food scene.
| Durham | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Costa Brava | Authentic Spanish tapas and a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Pizzeria Toro | Buona Forchetta | Neapolitan pizzas with a cozy, family-friendly vibe. |
| NanaSteak | Cowboy Star | Upscale steakhouse serving prime cuts and artisanal dishes. |
| Elmo’s Diner | Hash House a Go Go | Classic diner fare with an inventive twist. |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | Hodad's | Iconic burgers with a laid-back, surf-themed atmosphere. |
| Dashi Ramen | Tajima Ramen | Authentic Japanese ramen with rich flavors and broth. |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe | Artisan bread, delightful pastries, and a warm setting. |
| Toast Paninoteca | Panevino | Gourmet Italian sandwiches and salads with fresh ingredients. |
| Lantern | Szechuan Chef | Traditional and innovative Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. |
| Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken | Pollo Don Pepe | Flavorful, charcoal-grilled chicken with Peruvian spices. |
In the transition from Durham's food scene to that of San Diego, you'll be delighted to find establishments that not only match but in some instances, exceed the culinary experiences you've grown to love. San Diego's Costa Brava will transport you back to the cozy, bustling atmosphere of Mateo Bar de Tapas, with its authentic Spanish dishes and lively vibe. For those who have made weekend traditions out of visiting Elmo’s Diner, Hash House a Go Go in San Diego offers an inventive take on classic diner fare, ensuring the breakfast and brunch culture remains a staple in your routine. Those who frequented Bull City Burger and Brewery for their craft beers and burgers will find a similar sense of community and quality at Hodad's, renowned for its surf-themed decor and mouthwatering burgers. This guide aims to ease your transition by connecting you with spots that celebrate the diversity and flavor of both Durham and San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor in relocating. It's vital to grasp how Durham, NC, and San Diego, CA compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and the overall urban lifestyle. This comparison will provide insights necessary for anyone considering the move.
| Comparison | Durham | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Colonial | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to research facilities | Views, eco-friendly features |
When comparing Durham and San Diego, notable distinctions emerge, particularly in housing costs. Durham's more affordable living is appealing for its spacious yards and closeness to prominent research facilities, suitable for those valuing expansive outdoor space and academic environments. San Diego, on the other hand, prides itself on its Spanish Revival architecture and modern homes, often boasting stunning views and eco-friendly innovations. San Diego's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense urban structure, offering a vibrant urban lifestyle with endless outdoor and cultural activities easily accessible. Understanding these differences can help you determine which city aligns with your lifestyle and financial preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Durham vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate. It's crucial to compare the weather you’re accustomed to in Durham with what you'll experience in San Diego . This comparison will help you understand the differences in temperature, humidity, sunshine days, and more, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your new environment.
Durham, NC
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Durham to San Diego, you'll notice a significant difference in both temperature and precipitation. Durham experiences a wider range in temperatures with distinct seasons, including a modest amount of snowfall. In contrast, San Diego enjoys milder winters and cooler summers with significantly less rainfall, leading to more sunny days overall. Adjusting to the drier climate and year-round pollen in San Diego may require some time, especially for those susceptible to allergies. Additionally, while Durham residents prepare for hurricanes and tornadoes, those moving to San Diego should become familiar with the area's earthquake and wildfire protocols.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to San Diego
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape compare between your current and future homes. This guide focuses on the key financial differences between Durham, NC, and San Diego, CA, providing a detailed look at what you might expect in terms of income, taxes, and living costs.
| Comparison | Durham | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.81 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Biotechnology | Military, International Trade, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
Moving from Durham to San Diego will introduce you to a different financial climate. You'll notice that whilst the average household income is higher in San Diego, the cost of living index significantly exceeds that of Durham, indicating pricier day-to-day expenses. The state income tax is almost double in California compared to North Carolina, which can impact your net income. However, the affluence and industry diversity in San Diego might offer new opportunities not available in Durham. Understanding these economic factors will help you plan a smooth transition and adjust your budget accordingly.
Durham vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider making the move from Durham, NC, to San Diego, CA, it's helpful to understand the community you'll be joining. This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Durham & San Diego offers a quick snapshot of the typical resident profile in each city, from their political leanings to their religious affiliations.
| Durham | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal/Moderate |
| Local Politics | Democratic majority | Democratic majority |
| Religion | Christian predominance with diverse religious communities | Mixed; Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and other faiths |
In both Durham and San Diego, you'll find a politically liberal environment, though San Diego presents a slightly more moderate stance. Democratic leadership guides the local politics in both cities, ensuring that residents who lean towards liberal and democratic values will feel at home in their new surroundings. Religion wise, Durham exhibits a strong Christian presence, yet it embraces diverse religious communities. San Diego mirrors this with its own tapestry of religious faiths, including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and others, reflecting the city’s rich cultural diversity. Moving to San Diego from Durham means transitioning into a city with shared values but a broader cultural and religious spectrum.
Durham vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Durham, NC, to San Diego, CA requires understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to give you a better grasp of what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like in each city.
| Comparison | Durham | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible but inconvenient |
While Durham offers a slightly shorter average commute time compared to San Diego, the latter boasts a more developed public transit system, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Despite this, both cities present unique challenges for those hoping to rely solely on public transportation or walking. In Durham, the limited availability of public transit options can make this difficult, whereas in San Diego, despite better public transit coverage, the sprawling geographical layout still means that having a car could significantly ease your daily commute and overall lifestyle.
Additional Resources
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