Best Raleigh to Oceanside Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Raleigh to Oceanside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,605 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Raleigh to Oceanside 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 $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Oceanside. 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 Oceanside 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 | Right Way Movers | 8.99 | 8.77 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Vector Moving and Storage | 8.85 | 8.84 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Raleigh to Oceanside
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,605 miles from Raleigh, NC to Oceanside, CA will cost on average $3,996 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Oceanside move is roughly $9,659. 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 | $2,679 | 300 ft³ | 8.93 |
1 Bedroom | $3,996 | 450 ft³ | 8.88 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,623 | 750 ft³ | 8.83 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,659 | 1100 ft³ | 8.78 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,970 | 1600 ft³ | 8.73 |
5+ Bedrooms | $15,626 | 1800 ft³ | 8.68 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oceanside to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Oceanside 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) |

Right Way Movers
825 College Blvd
Oceanside, CA, 92057
About Right Way Movers
Right Way Movers is a family moving company located right in Oceanside, California. Since 2002, this California moving company has been...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Military Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1154565 / 536559 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 36,550 (2023) |

Vector Moving and Storage
6920 Miramar Rd # 305
San Diego, CA, 92121
About Vector Moving and Storage
Vector Moving and Storage was founded in San Diego, CA, in 2010 on the principles of customer satisfaction, honest pricing, and...
Services
- Local moving services in San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, and more
- Long distance moving services, including dedicated truck and trailer options
- Packing services, including furniture, kitchen and furniture, and full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3152229 / 105580 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 210,000 (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.
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be an adventure, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease your transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Oceanside, CA . By identifying the Raleigh neighborhoods you love and matching them with their Oceanside counterparts, we aim to make you feel right at home.
Raleigh | Oceanside | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Five Points | South Oceanside | Vibrant, eclectic vibe |
North Hills | Fire Mountain | Upscale shopping and dining |
Boylan Heights | Seaside | Historic homes and community feel |
Warehouse District | Oceanside Pier | Artsy with oceanfront views |
Midtown | El Camino Real | Dynamic mix of amenities |
Cameron Village | Rancho Del Oro | Shopping and recreation blend |
Glenwood South | Downtown Oceanside | Lively nightlife and eateries |
Historic Oakwood | Loma Alta | Strong sense of history and community |
Hayes Barton | Ivey Ranch | Quiet, upscale residential area |
Fayetteville Street | Coast Highway | Cultural hub with entertainment |
When moving from Raleigh to Oceanside, you’ll find an array of neighborhoods that share familiar characteristics with your old stomping grounds. For instance, if you enjoyed the vibrant, eclectic vibe of Five Points with its unique shops like Deco Raleigh and local breweries, South Oceanside will charm you with its diverse cuisine options at spots like The Privateer and its laid-back coastal atmosphere. Similarly, the historic homes and tight-knit community of Boylan Heights can be found anew in Seaside, where traditions are strong, and neighbors come together for block parties and local events. The Warehouse District’s artsy scene, reminiscent of Raleigh’s CAM Raleigh, finds its match in Oceanside Pier, with oceanfront views and cultural venues like the Oceanside Museum of Art. This guide, focusing on neighborhood parks, restaurants, and sights, offers a starting point to discovering your new favorite spots in Oceanside.

Things to Do in Oceanside
- Stroll along Oceanside Pier
- Visit the California Surf Museum
- Explore Mission San Luis Rey
- Go whale watching
- Experience the Sunset Market
- Hike in Guajome County Park
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Oceanside
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Oceanside, CA is a significant life change that carries both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation , helping you to weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa. It's about understanding what you're leaving behind and what awaits you in your new coastal city.
- Humid summers
- Far from beach
- Smaller city vibe
- Less multicultural
- Milder climate
- Ocean proximity
- Larger city amenities
- Greater diversity
- Higher expenses
- More crowded
- Fewer parks
- Less tight-knit
- Lower cost of living
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Abundance of green spaces
- Strong local community
While the mild climate and ocean proximity in Oceanside provide an appealing outdoors lifestyle, it's important to consider the financial implications such as the higher cost of living compared to Raleigh. However, Oceanside's diverse culture enriches the local dining scene, bringing a mix of culinary experiences from around the world right to your doorstep, evident in landmarks like Harney Sushi and The Landings. Neighborhood parks, although fewer, still offer quality outdoor time. Buccaneer Park and Oceanside Pier are popular spots for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Despite its bigger city feel, Oceanside does strive towards community through events and local businesses, nurturing a new sense of belonging.
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Oceanside to help you understand the food scene in these areas. Food is a vital part of local culture, significantly impacting the living experience. Through this guide, you'll get a clearer picture of what awaits your tastebuds.
Raleigh | Oceanside | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Pulled Pork BBQ | Fish Tacos |
Most popular meat dish | Eastern NC Barbecue | Carne Asada |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Burritos |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ Sandwich | Avocado Toast |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, the local food scene is deeply influenced by its southern roots, with barbecues and hot dogs ruling the street food scene. You can find the most delicious Eastern NC Barbecue at The Pit, where they serve up a mean pulled pork BBQ that epitomizes the city's taste. Meanwhile, Oceanside offers a breezier, Californian vibe with a strong lean towards Mexican cuisine, best represented by fish tacos and carne asada. The coastal city prides itself on its fresh, vegan-friendly options like avocado toast, widely available at oceanfront eateries such as Hello Betty. Both cities boast a vibrant foodie scene, but Oceanside slightly edges out with its beachside dining and health-conscious offerings.
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison is tailored to ease the transition for someone moving from Raleigh, North Carolina to Oceanside, California, identifying their new go-to spots for exceptional dining experiences. Whether you're seeking high-end culinary adventures or cozy, affordable bites, we've got you covered.
Raleigh | Oceanside | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Bida Manda | Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub | Unique and innovative dishes, similar exotic flair. |
Poole's Diner | 609 Mission | Classic American cuisine with a fresh, modern twist. |
Crawford and Son | Jeune et Jolie | Modern interpretations of classic dishes, upscale dining experience. |
Brewery Bhavana | Bagby Beer Company | Craft beers and great food, communal dining atmosphere. |
Garland | Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub | Also fitting for Garland’s eclectic and global menu. |
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern | Valle | High-end dining with an emphasis on quality and atmosphere. |
The Pit | That Boy Good | Southern BBQ with a West Coast twist, shares The Pit's dedication to flavor and community. |
La Farm Bakery | Beach Break Cafe | Known for breakfast and brunch, homemade quality, and charm. |
Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Local Tap House & Kitchen | Comfort food with a creative twist. |
Ashley Christensen Restaurants | Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen | Farm-to-table ethos and innovative Southern California cuisine. |
Finding parallels in dining experiences can be a delightful exploration in itself. For example, if you admired the careful blending of flavors and cultures at Bida Manda, the innovative seafood dishes at Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub in Oceanside offer a similar culinary adventure with their unique and thoughtfully prepared meals. On the other hand, fans of the warm and inviting atmosphere of Brewery Bhavana will find a comparable vibe at Bagby Beer Company, where craft beer aficionados and food lovers alike gather for a communal experience. Each establishment in Oceanside mirrors the essence of Raleigh's diverse dining scene, ensuring that, no matter where you are, there's always a table waiting that feels like home.

Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects compare between Raleigh, NC and Oceanside, CA can significantly impact your decision. This comparison looks into cost, architecture, walkability, and more to provide a thorough overview.
Comparison | Raleigh | Oceanside |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Mediterranean, Modern |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Parks, universities | Beaches, views |
When you dive deeper into the housing aspects of Raleigh and Oceanside, it's clear there are distinct differences. Raleigh, with its colonial and craftsman-style homes, appeals to those looking for traditional architecture and a connection to academic institutions like NC State University. In contrast, Oceanside offers a Mediterranean and modern architectural vibe, complemented by stunning ocean views and a higher walkability and bikeability score. These factors showcase Oceanside's emphasis on an urban, beachside lifestyle. Deciding between the two cities depends on your preference for home style, access to outdoor activities, and budget.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oceanside, CA
1. South Oceanside: Known for its dog-friendly beaches and the Buccaneer Park which offers a spacious area for your pets to play, making it a perfect neighborhood for pet owners.
2. Fire Mountain: Your pets will love the numerous walking trails and the community’s close proximity to Buddy Todd Park, offering plenty of space for exercise and exploration.
3. Rancho Del Oro: With its pet-friendly community atmosphere and several pet stores such as Petco, this neighborhood ensures your furry friends are well-cared for and welcomed.
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can dramatically change your daily life, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding the difference in climate can help you better prepare for your new environment. This comparison is particularly crucial when moving from Raleigh, NC to Oceanside, CA , as it will highlight the distinct weather patterns and what you can expect in terms of temperature, sunshine, and overall climate conditions.
Raleigh, NC
Oceanside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Oceanside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Oceanside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Oceanside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Raleigh | Oceanside |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Good |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Raleigh to Oceanside, you'll notice a significant change in both temperature range and the number of sunny days. Oceanside's milder summer temperatures and warmer winters compared to Raleigh's more humid and variable climate mean that your wardrobe might need adjusting. The drastic difference in annual rainfall and almost nonexistent snow in Oceanside heralds a notable change from Raleigh's more diverse weather patterns. Additionally, Oceanside's higher average UV index will require taking sun protection more seriously. Understanding these differences will ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Oceanside
When considering a move from one location to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial landscape will change. This comparison offers insight into moving from Raleigh, NC to Oceanside, CA , focusing on money and finance —elements that significantly affect your cost of living and overall financial health.
Comparison | Raleigh | Oceanside |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $78,125 |
Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 5.25 | 13.3 (max) |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.73 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 8.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Manufacturing, Tourism, Defense |
Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varied |
Poverty | Lower | Higher |
Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
Moving from Raleigh, NC, to Oceanside, CA, comes with its financial contrasts. The cost of living in Oceanside is considerably higher, reflected in its Cost of Living Index of 165 compared to Raleigh's 102. This increase is partly due to California's higher living expenses across various sectors. Despite a slightly lower average household income in Oceanside, the state offers vibrant employment opportunities, particularly in manufacturing, tourism, and defense, contrasting with Raleigh's tech and healthcare-driven economy. Moreover, while both locations take pride in their quality of life, anticipating and planning for California's higher taxes and cost of living will be critical for a smooth transition.
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Raleigh, NC, to Oceanside, CA, understanding the local demographics can be invaluable. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents between Raleigh & Oceanside , aiming to give you insight into the community you'll be joining.
Raleigh | Oceanside | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
Local Politics | Moderate to progressive | Moderate, with coastal environmental policies |
Religion | Christian, with significant Baptist and Methodist communities | Diverse, with Christian denominations and growing non-religious segment |
Both Raleigh and Oceanside lean Democratic, reflecting a moderate to progressive political engagement amongst residents. Raleigh, being the capital of North Carolina, hosts a diverse political climate, with substantial engagement in local and state politics. You'll find a range of Christian denominations in Raleigh, with Baptist and Methodist communities being particularly significant. Moving to Oceanside, the local politics tend to emphasize coastal environmental policies, a reflection of its beautiful Pacific Ocean backdrop. Religion in Oceanside is similarly diverse, accommodating various Christian denominations, but also indicating a growing non-religious segment, offering a spiritual home for a wide range of beliefs.
Raleigh vs. Oceanside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is essential when planning a move, especially when comparing the differences between Raleigh, NC, and Oceanside, CA. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what you might expect in terms of driving and transit in each city, helping to guide your decision on where to call home next.
Comparison | Raleigh | Oceanside |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Difficult |
In Raleigh, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Oceanside, reflecting less traffic congestion overall. However, Raleigh's public transit options are not as robust as those in Oceanside. While Oceanside benefits from higher public transit ratings, indicating better availability and convenience, getting around without a car is still a challenge in both cities. This means that while you might lean on public transportation more in Oceanside, owning a car is almost a necessity in both cities for ease of travel and to fully explore what each has to offer.



Additional Resources
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