Best Raleigh to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Raleigh to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,772 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Raleigh to Salinas 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 $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Salinas. 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 Salinas Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
2Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
3Capital Moving & Storage9.269.47Authorized For HHGContact
4Mod Movers8.808.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Raleigh to Salinas

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,772 miles from Raleigh, NC to Salinas, CA will cost on average $4,139 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Salinas move is roughly $10,006. 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$2,774300 ft³9.25
1 Bedroom$4,139450 ft³9.20
2 Bedrooms$6,860750 ft³9.15
3 Bedrooms$10,0061100 ft³9.10
4 Bedrooms$14,4751600 ft³9.05
5+ Bedrooms$16,1941800 ft³9.00
*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 Salinas to Raleigh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Salinas Movers

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

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
1
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
2
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
3
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.80/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
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. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially if you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison guide that leverages your knowledge of Raleigh, NC neighborhoods to help you find your new favorite spot in Salinas, CA. By directly relating Raleigh, NC neighborhoods & Salinas, CA areas, we aim to make your move smoother and more comfortable.

RaleighSalinasHow They're Similar
North HillsCreekbridgeFamily-friendly, shopping nearby
Five PointsSouth SalinasHistoric homes, vibrant community
Boylan HeightsMaple ParkCharming, community-oriented
OakwoodOld Town SalinasHistoric, walkable
Cameron VillageUniversity ParkShopping, easy campus access
MordecaiLos OlivosResidential, peaceful
Brier CreekNorthridgeModern amenities, family-friendly
Glenwood SouthDowntown SalinasVibrant nightlife, dining
Fayetteville StreetMain StreetEntertainment, dining options
Warehouse DistrictHarvest ParkIndustrial chic, artistic vibe

For those drawn to the historic and vibrant community of Five Points in Raleigh, you'll find a similar spirit in South Salinas. This area is known for its beautifully preserved historic homes and bustling community events. If shopping and dining are your delights, the transition from Cameron Village to University Park will be seamless, offering a variety of shopping experiences and easy access to higher education campuses. Meanwhile, fans of the artsy and industrial Warehouse District in Raleigh will appreciate the creative and youthful energy of Harvest Park in Salinas, characterized by its innovative art scene and unique businesses. These comparisons are designed to provide a sense of familiarity and continuity as you embark on this exciting new chapter in Salinas.

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Things to Do in Salinas

  • Explore Pinnacles National Park.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
  • Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
  • Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
  • Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
  • Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
  • Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Salinas

Moving can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when relocating across the country. Considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Salinas, CA requires an honest reflection of both the positive and negative aspects of such a transition. The purpose of the following charts is to highlight the cons of Raleigh, NC compared to the pros of Salinas, CA, and vice versa, ensuring you have a balanced perspective on your upcoming move.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Longer distances to beaches
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Closer to coastlines
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer green spaces
  • Less tech-focused
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Vibrant tech scene

Moving from Raleigh to Salinas offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of California's central coast. While Salinas boasts a more mild climate with cooler summers, making it ideal for outdoor activities, it's also rich in cultural diversity, offering a wide array of culinary delights and cultural festivals. Eateries like The Steinbeck House offer local cuisine within historical settings, providing both a taste of the local fare and a glimpse into the city's past. Although Salinas is closer to beautiful coastlines like Monterey Bay, it's worth noting that the cost of living is higher, and the tech scene may not be as vibrant as in Raleigh. However, the ample opportunities to explore nature, from local neighborhood parks to the nearby Fort Ord National Monument, ensure that residents can still find ways to connect with the outdoors and enjoy their new home.

Raleigh vs. Salinas Food Guide

Food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and significantly impacts the lifestyle in a new area. Understanding the culinary scene is crucial for anyone planning a move. Therefore, we have crafted a carefully detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Salinas to aid in your relocation journey.

RaleighSalinas
Most iconic local food itemPulled Pork BBQArtichokes
Most popular meat dishEastern NC BarbecueCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegan Ceviche
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Poole's Diner
  • Clyde Cooper's BBQ
  • Patria
  • First Awakenings
  • Giorgio's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Raleigh, the barbecue scene is legendary, highlighted by traditional Eastern NC barbecue dishes. Places like The Pit and Clyde Cooper's BBQ offer authentic experiences of this local specialty. Raleigh's vibrant food truck scene and bustling markets like the Raleigh Farmers Market also contribute to its lively foodie culture, giving it a high rank in the local culinary scene. Moving over to Salinas, you’ll find a robust agricultural backbone, evidenced by its title as the "Salad Bowl of the World." This is reflected in the local cuisine through fresh, farm-to-table dishes and an emphasis on vegetarian and vegan options. The city's Mexican-American influence shines in its popular Carne Asada and Tacos, readily found in its numerous authentic restaurants and eateries throughout the area.

Raleigh vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

Finding a great place to eat is essential for making a new area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you discover your new favorite eateries in Salinas, using your current favorites in Raleigh as a guide. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual eateries, foodie havens, or affordable spots, this chart aims to match you with comparable restaurants in your new city.

RaleighSalinasWhat You'll Love
Brewery BhavanaGiorgio'sItalian cuisine with a unique and elegant atmosphere
Poole's DinerPatriaOffers a European twist on American classics, akin to the comfort food of Poole's Diner
GarlandEagle RestaurantSimilar focus on unique Asian cuisine and ambiance
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyFarm Fresh Deli & CafeComfort food with a focus on fresh ingredients and a homey vibe
Bida MandaYangtse's Taste of ThaiHigh-quality Thai food that captures the authentic essence of Bida Manda's Laotian cuisine
The PitSmokey Barrel BBQA dedication to smoked meats and Southern sides that fans of The Pit will appreciate
Mateo Bar de TapasLa Casa del SazonOffers a variety of Latin flavors that mirror the tapas experience
Death & TaxesThe Steinbeck HouseHigh-end dining with a historic backdrop, offering an experience similar to Death & Taxes
Second Empire RestaurantMonterey Coast BrewingAlthough known for beers, it offers an upscale dining experience that rivals Second Empire's elegance
GravyFirst AwakeningsThough more known for breakfast, it delivers the comforting, Italian-American vibes of Gravy

Transitioning from Raleigh's storied food scene to Salinas's rich culinary landscape is an exciting journey. For example, fans of the cozy, yet refined atmosphere of Poole's Diner will find comfort in Patria's European twist on American classics. Similarly, if you've grown fond of Brewery Bhavana's unique blend of brewery, flower shop, and bookstore, Giorgio's in Salinas offers Italian cuisine in an atmosphere that is equally unique and elegant. On the other hand, while The Pit is a go-to for barbecue in Raleigh, Smokey Barrel BBQ in Salinas promises a similar homage to the craft of smoked meats and Southern sides, ensuring your cravings for authentic barbecue are well met in your new home city.

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Ready to start your move?

Raleigh vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, examining real estate is crucial to understanding how Raleigh, NC and Salinas, CA stack up against each other. This comparison provides insights into housing costs, styles, and livability, guiding your decision in finding the perfect new home.

ComparisonRaleighSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, ModernRanch, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, Smart home featuresProximity to agriculture, Energy-efficient features

Moving from Raleigh to Salinas involves adjusting to a significant difference in real estate prices, with Salinas being markedly more expensive. However, Salinas compensates with slightly higher scores in walkability and urban lifestyle, perhaps reflecting its close proximity to major Californian urban centers and agricultural heartlands. The architectural styles in Salinas lean towards Ranch and modern, featuring energy-efficient designs, which could be a nod to California's emphasis on sustainability. In contrast, the popular mention of smart home features and open floor plans in Raleigh listings highlights a trend towards modern, tech-friendly living environments.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA

1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.

2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.

3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.

Raleigh vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one location to another, comparing the climates can be incredibly insightful. Understanding how the Raleigh weather will compare to Salinas is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in your lifestyle and prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/67

Raleigh, NC

70/55

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Raleigh, NC

62/44

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

15

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

0

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRaleighSalinas
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In transitioning from Raleigh to Salinas, you'll find a significant difference in temperature and humidity levels. Raleigh experiences humid summers with high temperatures, while Salinas enjoys milder summers due to the cooling effect of the Pacific Ocean. Salinas also boasts a higher number of sunny days annually, offering more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, while both cities have their share of natural disaster risks, Salinas residents need to be prepared for earthquakes and wildfires, contrasting with Raleigh's susceptibility to hurricanes and tornadoes. Understanding these key differences will aid in a smoother adaptation to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, it's crucial to compare financial elements between Raleigh, NC, and Salinas, CA, to gauge how the cost of living and other economic factors will affect your budget and lifestyle. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision and prepare for your new life.

ComparisonRaleighSalinas
Avg. Household Income$74,612$80,154
Cost of Living Index98.2136.4
State Income Tax5.259.3
Avg. Property Tax0.840.79
Avg. Sales Tax7.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, EducationAgriculture, Manufacturing, Services
AffluenceModerateVariable
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessLowModerate

Moving from Raleigh to Salinas, you'll notice significant differences in the cost of living and state income tax rates, which are higher in Salinas. While the average household income is also higher in Salinas, the increased living expenses might offset this benefit. The top industries vary greatly, with Raleigh focusing on technology and education, whereas Salinas boasts a strong agricultural sector. Understanding these economic indicators will be crucial in managing your expenses and expectations while transitioning to your new home in Salinas.

Raleigh vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect when moving from Raleigh, NC to Salinas, CA, focusing specifically on the comparison of the politics and religion between Raleigh & Salinas. Understanding the political and religious makeup of your new home can help you integrate more smoothly.

RaleighSalinas
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressiveVery progressive
ReligionChristian majority, with diverse religious communitiesChristian majority, significant Catholic presence

In Raleigh, you might have noticed the political atmosphere leans Democratic with a moderately progressive outlook on local issues. In comparison, Salinas presents a political environment that is not only strongly Democratic but also very progressive, reflecting in its local politics. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, with Christianity being the majority. However, Salinas stands out for its significant Catholic presence, pointing towards a vibrant community with deep-rooted traditions. This comparison not only highlights the differences but also accents the diversity you will encounter in your new home.

Raleigh vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In this segment, we are diving into a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Salinas to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider your relocation. Knowing the differences can greatly impact your decision on where to live and how to navigate your new city.

ComparisonRaleighSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingModerately feasible

While the average commute time in Raleigh and Salinas is fairly comparable, with Raleigh just a bit higher, there's a noticeable difference in traffic congestion and public transit availability. Raleigh experiences a higher level of traffic congestion, which might impact your daily commute, making it slightly more stressful. On the other hand, Salinas offers a more efficient public transit system, indicated by a higher availability score, making it more convenient for residents to travel without a car. However, it's important to note that in both cities, depending on your specific neighborhood and destination, having a car could still greatly enhance your mobility.

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