Best Raleigh to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,652 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Raleigh to Irvine 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 $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Irvine. 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 Raleigh to Irvine Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Trek Movers | 9.20 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Irvine
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,652 miles from Raleigh, NC to Irvine, CA will cost on average $4,036 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Irvine move is roughly $9,757. 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 | $2,706 | 300 ft³ | 9.02 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,036 | 450 ft³ | 8.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,690 | 750 ft³ | 8.92 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,757 | 1100 ft³ | 8.87 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,112 | 1600 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,786 | 1800 ft³ | 8.77 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Irvine 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 | - |
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |
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) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (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.
Raleigh vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when moving across the country. To ease the transition, this guide offers a direct comparison of local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Irvine, CA . By highlighting similar neighborhoods between these cities, we aim to help you find a familiar community vibe in your new city, making the move a little less intimidating.
| Raleigh | Irvine | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville Street | Irvine Spectrum | Vibrant shopping & dining hub |
| Five Points | Woodbridge | Family-friendly with lakes |
| North Hills | Quail Hill | Upscale, outdoor shopping |
| Boylan Heights | Turtle Rock | Scenic views, family-oriented |
| Cameron Village | University Park | Mix of retail & residential |
| Warehouse District | The Great Park | Innovative & arts-focused |
| Oakwood | Woodbury | Historic charm, community-centric |
| Glenwood South | Westpark | Lively nightlife, multicultural dining |
| Mordecai | Northwood | Quiet, family-friendly, parks |
| Brier Creek | Shady Canyon | Luxurious, golf community |
Exploring similar neighborhoods in your new city can help you find your preferred surroundings more easily. For example, Fayetteville Street in Raleigh, renowned for its vibrant shopping and dining scene, finds its match in the Irvine Spectrum. Both areas are hubs for socializing and entertainment, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and leisure activities. If you're drawn to the historic and community-centric vibe of Oakwood, you might enjoy Woodbury in Irvine, where the emphasis on preserving a tight-knit community feel amidst beautiful surroundings makes it stand out. For those who appreciate wide open spaces and outdoor activities, the transition from the Warehouse District's innovative spirit to The Great Park's numerous amenities and arts programs will feel seamless, ensuring that your lifestyle preferences are met even after the move.
Things to Do in Irvine
Hike at Irvine Regional Park- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Irvine
Moving from one city to another offers a blend of challenges and opportunities. This evaluation aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Irvine, CA . Through carefully curated charts, you'll gain insights into what aspects of life will change, for better or for worse, paving the way for a smoother transition.
Raleigh, NC- Higher humidity
- Smaller tech hub
- Less cultural diversity
- More affordable living
Irvine, CA- Milder climate
- Larger tech industry
- Greater cultural diversity
- Higher living standard
Irvine, CA- Higher cost of living
- More urban feel
- Less greenery
- Higher overall taxes
Raleigh, NC- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit communities
- Lush green landscapes
- Milder winters
Relocating from Raleigh to Irvine brings significant changes, notably in climate and industry. Irvine's milder climate offers comfortable living conditions year-round, contrasting with Raleigh's higher humidity levels. This climatic advantage in Irvine is complemented by its standing as a prominent tech hub, offering extensive career opportunities in the tech industry. Furthermore, Irvine boasts greater cultural diversity, enriching the city with a wide array of restaurants, cultural festivals, and neighborhood parks such as the Orange County Great Park. While the higher cost of living and urban feel of Irvine might require adjustments, the city's higher living standards, bustling technology sector, and vibrant cultural scene make it an appealing destination for many.
Raleigh vs. Irvine Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Irvine provides insights into each city's food scene, assisting those relocating to understand the culinary experiences awaiting them. Food significantly shapes local culture and daily life, making this comparison vital for newcomers.
| Raleigh | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork | Carne asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot dogs | Food trucks variety |
| Most popular vegan food | Barbecue jackfruit | Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, the barbecue culture is at the heart of its culinary scene, with places like The Pit showcasing the city's love for smoked meats. Contrarily, Irvine infuses its culinary palette with a broad spectrum of Asian and Latino influences, reflected in its popularity of tacos and pho as vegan options. Neighborhoods like the Irvine Spectrum are bustling with food trucks and eateries offering a taste of the city's diverse flavors. Irvine's commitment to health and fitness also translates into a vibrant food scene geared towards fresh, wholesome options, making it an exciting transition for those accustomed to Raleigh’s traditional Southern fare.
Raleigh vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can stir a mix of emotions, especially when leaving behind favorite neighborhood spots. Food plays a crucial role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your move from Raleigh, NC to Irvine, CA, by identifying new go-to eateries that reflect your dining preferences. Through these comparisons, discover your next culinary love in Irvine, using Raleigh as your flavorful guide.
| Raleigh | Irvine | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Brewery Bhavana | TAPS Fish House & Brewery | A blend of upscale dining and craft beers. |
| Garland | Clay Oven | Innovative Indian cuisine with a modern twist. |
| Poole's Diner | Paul Martin's American Grill | Classic American fare with a focus on quality ingredients. |
| Bida Manda | Bamboo Bistro | Authentic Southeast Asian flavors in a cozy setting. |
| Death & Taxes | AnQi by House of AN | Unique takes on gourmet dishes with an emphasis on presentation and flavor. |
| Ashley Christensen Restaurants | Hive & Honey Rooftop Bar | Dynamic culinary experiences with a view. |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Bruxie | Original Chicken & Waffle Sandwich for a casual yet delicious meal. |
| The Pit | Lillie's Q | Offers a taste of traditional Southern barbeque with a modern flair. |
| La Farm Bakery | 85°C Bakery Cafe | A wide selection of bread, pastries, and coffee, perfect for any time of the day. |
| Second Empire | Knife Pleat | High-end dining that focuses on meticulously prepared dishes in an elegant setting. |
Finding culinary gems that resonate with your palate can turn a new city into your home. For fans of innovative and upscale dining, the transition from Brewery Bhavana to TAPS Fish House & Brewery will be seamless, promising an unforgettable dining experience with each visit. Food enthusiasts who have cherished the unique flavors and modern twists on Indian cuisine at Garland will feel right at home at Clay Oven in Irvine, where traditional meets contemporary. And for those who appreciate the art of Southern BBQ, Lillie's Q will satisfy your cravings with its homage to classic American cooking and inventive dishes. Each restaurant on this list not only serves as a bridge between Raleigh and Irvine but also introduces you to the diverse culinary landscape waiting to be explored in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts a relocation decision, making it crucial to compare the attributes of prospective cities. This guide aims to highlight the differences in the real estate market between Raleigh, NC, and Irvine, CA , providing insight on aspects such as cost and lifestyle. Let's delve into how these two vibrant cities match up.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Modern, Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Garages | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to parks |
Moving from Raleigh to Irvine, you'll notice a significant shift not just in housing costs but also in the aspects that define urban living. In Irvine, homes tend to emphasize modernity and eco-friendly features, reflecting California's robust environmental ethos. This is complemented by Irvine's higher walkability and bikeability scores, which are indicative of a city planned with pedestrian and cycling convenience in mind. The higher urban lifestyle score in Irvine also suggests a bustling environment with numerous amenities and activities at your doorstep, contrasting with Raleigh's more laid-back, spacious, and traditionally styled housing offerings. These differences paint a vivid picture of the lifestyle adjustments you might expect when relocating from Raleigh to the thriving urban landscapes of Irvine.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Raleigh vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires understanding the differences you'll encounter, especially when it comes to weather comparisons between Raleigh and Irvine. This comparison will help you prepare for the new climate you'll experience.
Raleigh, NC
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, storms | Earthquakes, wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Raleigh to Irvine, you'll notice a significant increase in sunny days and a milder winter climate. Irvine offers lower humidity which can make the warmer temperatures feel more comfortable. Moreover, while Raleigh experiences a more diverse range of natural disasters including hurricanes and storms, Irvine's primary concerns are earthquakes and wildfires. Adjusting to these differences, including the dramatic drop in annual rainfall from Raleigh to Irvine, will be essential in making your transition smoother. Considering these weather factors can greatly influence your daily life and recreational activities in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Irvine
When you're considering a move, it’s crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial aspects in Raleigh, NC, compare to Irvine, CA. This comparison will help illuminate the differences in economic climate you might expect as you relocate from one vibrant city to another.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $105,774 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Technology, Manufacturing, Education |
| Affluence | Prosperous | Very Prosperous |
| Poverty | Lower | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
Upon examining the finer details, it becomes evident that Irvine presents a significantly higher average household income and a steeper cost of living index when compared to Raleigh. This is reflective of the affluence in Irvine but also underscores the need for a larger income to maintain a similar lifestyle due to higher costs associated with living in California. Notably, the taxation landscape is also more demanding in Irvine, with higher state income and sales tax rates. However, it's noteworthy that despite the higher living costs, Irvine manages lower rates of poverty and homelessness, suggesting effective municipal management and social programs. This overview should aide in budgeting and financial planning for a smooth transition.
Raleigh vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Raleigh, NC to Irvine, CA, understanding the local demographics can offer invaluable insight into your new community. This comparison between Raleigh & Irvine provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you to gauge how well you'll fit into your new home.
| Raleigh | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with liberal leanings | Progressive tendencies |
| Religion | Christianity predominant | Diverse, with a significant Asian religious influence |
Both Raleigh and Irvine lean Democratic, signaling a potential ease in political transition for you. However, whereas Raleigh's local politics might be described as moderately liberal, Irvine displays more progressive tendencies, which could reflect on local policies and community initiatives. The religious landscape offers a notable contrast. In Raleigh, Christianity is predominant, with many local churches serving as key community hubs. On the other hand, Irvine's diverse population means you'll find a wider array of religious practices, including significant Asian religious communities, potentially offering a richer tapestry of cultural experiences. This diversity mirrors Irvine's vibrant, multicultural identity, making it an exciting place for those who appreciate a global perspective.
Raleigh vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic between Raleigh & Irvine is crucial for anyone considering making the move. This comparison helps you better gauge what to expect in terms of transportation options and the overall driving experience in both cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Somewhat |
When moving from Raleigh to Irvine, you'll find your daily commute may slightly decrease in duration. However, Irvine experiences a notch higher in traffic congestion, largely due to its location within the bustling Greater Los Angeles area. Public transit options in Irvine, like the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), offer more comprehensive services compared to Raleigh, making it somewhat feasible to get around Irvine without a personal vehicle. Nonetheless, the dependence on cars remains significant in both cities, with Raleigh having very limited public transit options, making a personal vehicle almost a necessity for daily commute and errands.
Additional Resources
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