Best Raleigh to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Raleigh to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,676 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 55 Raleigh to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles. 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 Raleigh to Los Angeles Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.469.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
4Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
5Capital Moving & Storage9.269.47Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Raleigh to Los Angeles

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,676 miles from Raleigh, NC to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $4,057 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Los Angeles move is roughly $9,807. 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$2,720300 ft³9.07
1 Bedroom$4,057450 ft³9.02
2 Bedrooms$6,724750 ft³8.97
3 Bedrooms$9,8071100 ft³8.92
4 Bedrooms$14,1841600 ft³8.87
5+ Bedrooms$15,8671800 ft³8.82
*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 Los Angeles to Raleigh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Los Angeles Movers

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

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 1,438+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.42/10
based on 954+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
3
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,596+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
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.

Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be exciting yet daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local scene. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Los Angeles, CA , we aim to help you find your new favorite spot that feels just like home. Let's dive into the comparisons.

RaleighLos AngelesHow They're Similar
OakwoodLos FelizHistoric homes, vibrant community culture
Boylan HeightsSilver LakeEclectic vibe, indie businesses
Cameron VillageStudio CityBustling shopping, trendy restaurants
North HillsSherman OaksMix of residential and commercial, family-friendly
Five PointsLos Angeles Echo ParkDiverse and artistic community
Warehouse DistrictArts DistrictTrendy lofts, vibrant art scene
MordecaiAtwater VillageQuiet, neighborly charm
Glenwood SouthWest HollywoodNightlife, creative scene
Brier CreekPlaya VistaModern living, tech hub
HillsboroughHighland ParkHistoric architecture, vibrant local scene

For those who enjoy the historic charm and community culture of Oakwood in Raleigh, you might find Los Feliz in Los Angeles to be an excellent match with its own set of beautifully preserved homes and a close-knit community vibe. Food enthusiasts who love Cameron Village's shopping and dining scene might appreciate Studio City for its plethora of trendy restaurants and boutiques. Meanwhile, if the artistic and diverse atmosphere of Five Points is what you're leaving behind, Echo Park will welcome you with a similar eclectic and vibrant community. Each Los Angeles neighborhood mentioned offers unique parks, eateries, and sights. For instance, Sherman Oaks provides a family-centric environment with amenities like the Sherman Oaks Castle Park for outdoor fun, while West Hollywood boasts a plethora of dining options, such as the historic Formosa Café, for those looking for a taste of the local flavor amidst a bustling nightlife.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Los Angeles

Moving from city to city is a major life decision that comes with its mix of opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Los Angeles, CA . By evaluating the cons and pros side by side, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to anticipate in this significant transition.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Less entertainment options
  • Mild winters
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Vibrant cultural diversity
  • Broader job market
  • World-class entertainment
  • Sunny weather year-round
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Can feel overcrowded
  • Urban landscape
  • Traffic congestion
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Greater community feel
  • Lush green spaces
  • Easier commuting

Moving to Los Angeles from Raleigh presents an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in a diverse cultural scene, with access to some of the best entertainment options in the world, including Universal Studios Hollywood and LACMA. However, this comes with the trade-off of a significantly higher cost of living and potential traffic congestion. Los Angeles' urban landscape is dotted with iconic sights like the Griffith Observatory and bustling neighborhoods such as West Hollywood, offering endless exploration and dining options. Meanwhile, Raleigh's charm lies in its community feel, lower living expenses, and the presence of green spaces like Pullen Park, appealing to those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. This transition is a step into a vastly different lifestyle, promising both new challenges and exciting opportunities.

Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Food Guide

As an important facet of local culture and lifestyle, food plays a significant role in how we experience a city. This guide provides a bird's-eye view comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Los Angeles , allowing you to savor a taste of what life might be like in your new home.

RaleighLos Angeles
Most iconic local food itemNorth Carolina BBQStreet Tacos
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkKorean BBQ
Most popular street food itemHot DogsFood Trucks Varied Cuisine
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Big Ed's North
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles
  • Guisados
  • Bestia
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In moving from Raleigh to Los Angeles, you'll dive into a vivid tapestry of culinary experiences that reflect each city's diverse culture. Raleigh, known for its deep roots in the barbecue tradition, offers iconic dishes like North Carolina BBQ at places like The Pit. Meanwhile, Los Angeles promises a mosaic of flavors, particularly its diverse street food scene. The city thrives on its fitness and health-conscious ethos, making it a haven for vegan and vegetarian food lovers. The plethora of food trucks, such as those found in vibrant neighborhoods like Echo Park and Silver Lake, offer a variety of cuisines including Korean BBQ and vegan tacos. Notably, establishments like Bestia in the Arts District and Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles encapsulate Los Angeles' innovative and diverse food scene.

Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This careful restaurant comparison between Raleigh and Los Angeles will guide you in discovering your new favorite spots, ensuring a smoother transition to your new locale.

RaleighLos AngelesWhat You'll Love
Bida MandaNight + MarketAuthentic Thai cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere
Poole's DinerRepubliqueClassic dishes reimagined in a bustling space
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyHowlin' RaysFamous for their Nashville hot chicken
La Farm BakeryProof BakeryArtisanal pastries and bread that echo European traditions
Crawford and SonBestiaA multi-regional rustic Italian dining experience
GarlandBadmaashIndian cuisine with a modern twist
Brewery BhavanaAngel City BreweryA craft beer destination with eclectic food offerings
Death & TaxesOsteria MozzaHigh-end Italian with an emphasis on quality ingredients
MandolinGjelinaFarm-to-table dishes that celebrate the bounty of California
Ashley Christensen RestaurantsSuzanne Goin RestaurantsInventive New American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients

Exploring the food scene is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Los Angeles, mirroring the rich culinary tradition Raleigh offers. For instance, if you’ve loved the iconic Nashville hot chicken at Beasley's Chicken + Honey in Raleigh, you’ll find a similar fiery delight awaiting at Howlin' Rays in LA, where the hot chicken craze continues to thrive. For those who cherish the refined European flair of La Farm Bakery, Proof Bakery in Los Angeles offers an artisanal experience that will make your mornings brighter with their freshly baked pastries and bread. These establishments not only promise a taste of home but also invite you into the heart of Los Angeles’ diverse culinary landscape.

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Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move, and understanding how housing compares between Raleigh, NC, and Los Angeles, CA, is essential. This comparison will delve into costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle ratings to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

ComparisonRaleighLos Angeles
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalMid-Century Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet neighborhoodsProximity to entertainment, ocean views

In comparing Raleigh and Los Angeles, it's evident that Los Angeles commands a significantly higher cost of living, especially in housing. However, this cost comes with perks such as closer proximity to a variety of entertainment options and the coveted ocean views often mentioned in real estate listings. Raleigh offers its charm with colonial revival architecture and a more laid-back urban lifestyle, which is reflected in its more affordable housing market. Los Angeles is also more walkable and slightly more bike-friendly, supporting a more active urban lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the sprawling yards and quiet of Raleigh or the vibrant, entertainment-rich life in Los Angeles, each city offers a distinct living experience shaped by its unique real estate attributes.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.

2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.

3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.

Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations

As you consider relocating from Raleigh, NC, to Los Angeles, CA, one essential aspect to explore is the weather differences between the two cities. Understanding how the weather compares in these locations will help you adjust better to your new environment. This comparison will cover aspects ranging from average temperatures and sunshine days to air quality and top seasonal allergies in both Raleigh and Los Angeles.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

84/64

Los Angeles, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/32

Raleigh, NC

68/48

Los Angeles, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

15

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Raleigh, NC

0

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRaleighLos Angeles
Air QualityGoodModerate to poor
Natural DisastersHurricanes, stormsEarthquakes, wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In transitioning from Raleigh to Los Angeles, you'll find the milder winters and significantly more days of sunshine in LA quite pleasant. However, it's crucial to prepare for the possibility of earthquakes and wildfires, a drastic shift from the hurricanes and storms more common in Raleigh. The lower humidity and reduced annual rainfall in Los Angeles might contribute to a comfortable living environment, but be mindful of the moderate to poor air quality and higher UV index, which necessitates daily sunscreen application. Adjusting to these changes will be vital for a smooth transition and maintaining your health and comfort in your new home.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Los Angeles

When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Los Angeles, CA, it’s crucial to grasp the financial and economic differences you'll face. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and average income in Raleigh compare to those in Los Angeles will better prepare you for this significant transition.

ComparisonRaleighLos Angeles
Avg. Household Income$74,612$70,372
Cost of Living Index98.2136.4
State Income Tax5.259.3
Avg. Property Tax0.860.77
Avg. Sales Tax7.259.5
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareEntertainment, Manufacturing, International Trade
AffluenceModerately affluentHighly affluent
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessLowVery high

Although the average household income in Raleigh is slightly higher, Los Angeles presents a higher cost of living index, indicating that your expenses in LA will be significantly more than in Raleigh. The stark contrast in state income and sales tax rates further emphasizes the financial adjustments needed. Moreover, the top industries in each city reflect the economic landscape and opportunities available. Understanding these differences is key to effectively preparing for your move, especially in budgeting for higher costs and exploring job markets pertinent to LA’s leading industries.

Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison

In this brief overview, we aim to provide a quick snapshot of the differences and similarities you'll find in the political and religious makeup between your current city and your new home. This comparison is designed to offer insights into the politics between Raleigh & Los Angeles, as well as a peek into the religious landscape, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.

RaleighLos Angeles
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate, with a history of both Democratic and Republican leadershipProgressive, Democratic stronghold
ReligionMix of evangelical Protestant, Mainline Protestant, and CatholicDiverse, with Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, and Buddhism represented

In terms of political and religious makeup, moving from Raleigh to Los Angeles, you'll transition from a city with a balanced political landscape to one recognized for its progressive tendencies. While Raleigh's political environment is moderate, showing a history of fluctuating leadership between Democrats and Republicans, Los Angeles is a well-known Democratic stronghold, characterized by a deeply progressive stance on many issues. On the religious front, Raleigh offers a mixed religious landscape, with a significant presence of evangelical and Mainline Protestants alongside Catholics. In contrast, Los Angeles showcases a rich tapestry of religious beliefs, with larger Jewish, Buddhist, and additional faith communities alongside Protestant and Catholic denominations, reflecting the city's vast cultural and ethnic diversity.

Raleigh vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Los Angeles, CA, brings with it a change in scenery and lifestyle, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Los Angeles are like, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the road or rail ahead.

ComparisonRaleighLos Angeles
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible but difficult

When considering the differences in driving and transiting in Raleigh compared to Los Angeles, you'll find that the average commute time is slightly longer in Los Angeles, reflecting its notorious traffic congestion. Los Angeles scores higher in traffic congestion, which can significantly impact your daily commute and overall quality of life. Conversely, Raleigh offers a more relaxed commute but with limited public transit options, making it challenging to live without a car. Los Angeles provides more comprehensive public transit options, including buses, subways, and light rail via the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, making it feasible, though still tough, to forego a personal vehicle. This information paints a picture of how your commute might change, emphasizing the importance of planning and flexibility in your daily travel.

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