Best Raleigh to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,820 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Raleigh to San Jose 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 $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,820 miles from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA will cost on average $4,179 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to San Jose move is roughly $10,106. 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 | $2,801 | 300 ft³ | 9.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,179 | 450 ft³ | 9.29 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,928 | 750 ft³ | 9.24 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,106 | 1100 ft³ | 9.19 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,620 | 1600 ft³ | 9.14 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,357 | 1800 ft³ | 9.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to San Jose 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 | - |
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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.
Raleigh vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA , it helps to find familiar ground. This comparison is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We've matched top neighborhoods in Raleigh with their closest counterparts in San Jose, offering a sense of home in a new city.
| Raleigh | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | Santana Row | Vibrant shopping and dining scene |
| Five Points | Willow Glen | Community-oriented with charming homes |
| Boylan Heights | The Alameda | Historic with a strong community vibe |
| Cameron Village | Downtown San Jose | Urban living with retail and restaurants |
| Oberlin Village | Rose Garden | Historical significance with beautiful gardens |
| Mordecai | Japantown | Rich history and cultural depth |
| Fayetteville Street | Santa Clara Street | Bustling urban core with nightlife |
| Brier Creek | South San Jose | Suburban with ample amenities |
| Oakwood | Shasta Hanchett Park | Historic homes with a tight-knit community |
| Glenwood South | SoFA District | Trendy arts scene and nightlife |
If the eclectic shops and local eateries of Five Points have become your go-to, then you'll enjoy the small-town charm of Willow Glen, where community events fill the calendar. For those who have enjoyed the mix of history and culture in Mordecai, San Jose's Japantown will enamor you with its blend of historical landmarks and vibrant cultural festivals. If the urban lifestyle of Glenwood South has been to your taste, the SoFA District in San Jose mirrors this with its trendy nightlife and arts scene, while venues like the San Jose Museum of Art punctuate the cultural landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to San Jose
Moving from one city to another can be a significant change, which is why it's important to weigh all factors carefully. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA, helping you make an informed decision on whether this move is right for you.
Raleigh, NC- Lower avg. salary
- Less tech opportunities
- Lower cost of living
- Fewer cultural attractions
San Jose, CA- Higher avg. salary
- More tech opportunities
- Better weather
- More cultural attractions
San Jose, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less green space
- More crowded
- Worse traffic conditions
Raleigh, NC- Lower cost of living
- More green spaces
- Friendly community
- Better traffic conditions
When considering the move from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA, the details matter. For job seekers in technology, San Jose offers unparalleled opportunities with its dense concentration of tech firms, including giants like Apple, Google, and Facebook. Despite the higher cost of living, San Jose's weather is a significant draw, offering mild, sunny days almost year-round. Conversely, Raleigh boasts lower living expenses and a relaxed pace of life, making it ideal for those prioritizing affordability and smaller community vibes. While San Jose does have fewer green spaces than Raleigh, it compensates with remarkable cultural attractions like the San Jose Museum of Art and the vibrant culinary scene around Downtown San Jose. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal and professional priorities, evaluating each city's unique offerings against your lifestyle preferences.
Raleigh vs. San Jose Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & San Jose, illustrating the profound role food plays in defining local culture and what living in each area could be like. Understand the culinary scene you're moving into, ensuring your palate is as prepared as your packing list.
| Raleigh | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Pho |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegetable Tofu Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Raleigh embraces its southern roots with iconic BBQ and pulled pork being local staples, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a more international flavor; Pho and Carne Asada are among its most popular dishes. San Jose boasts a vibrant food truck scene, especially around Downtown and SoFA District, reflecting its diverse culinary scene. Contrastingly, Raleigh offers a unique blend of traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist, readily available in places like The Pit and Brewery Bhavana. For those seeking vegan options, both cities provide a plethora of choices, but San Jose's Vegetable Tofu Pho from places like Santouka Ramen highlights its slight edge in catering to plant-based diets.
Raleigh vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison between Raleigh and San Jose will guide your culinary exploration, transforming Raleigh's familiar tastes into new favorites in San Jose . Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences, casual bites, or iconic local dishes, this chart aims to bridge the gap and make your transition flavorful and exciting.
| Raleigh | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bida Manda | Elyse Restaurant | Exquisite French Vietnamese cuisine, offering a cultural fusion similar to Bida Manda’s Laotian charm. |
| Poole's Diner | Orchard City Kitchen | An innovative approach to American comfort food, parallels Poole’s Diner’s modern take on classic dishes. |
| Brewery Bhavana | Good Karma Vegan Café | Both offer a unique blend of ambiance and craft beers, with Good Karma adding a vegan twist. |
| Crawford and Son | Plumed Horse | Offers a sophisticated dining experience with an emphasis on innovation, reflective of Crawford and Son’s culinary excellence. |
| Garland | Adega | Sharing Garland's passion for vibrant, flavor-packed dishes with its focus on Portuguese cuisine. |
| The Pit | Smoking Pig BBQ | For a deeply satisfying barbecue experience that captures the essence of The Pit’s southern charm. |
| Neomonde Mediterranean | DishDash | A celebration of Middle Eastern flavors that offers a dining experience akin to Neomonde’s beloved dishes. |
| Angus Barn | Alexander’s Steakhouse | A high-end steak experience that closely mirrors Angus Barn’s legendary steaks and service. |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Back A Yard | Caribbean flavors meet southern fried chicken, emulating Beasley’s unique taste profile. |
| O-Ku Sushi | Minato Japanese Restaurant | Authentic Japanese dining that captures O-Ku Sushi’s commitment to fresh, quality seafood. |
Transitioning from the diverse culinary landscape of Raleigh to the innovative food scene in San Jose is an adventure. For example, if you admire the unique Laotian dishes at Bida Manda, you'll find a kindred spirit in Elyse Restaurant, where French Vietnamese culinary traditions are celebrated with equal fervor. Similarly, fans of Garland's eclectic menu will discover a new love in Adega, where the chef's dedication to Portuguese cuisine brings a fresh yet familiar twist to your taste buds. And for those who can’t imagine weekends without The Pit’s authentic Southern barbecue, Smoking Pig BBQ in San Jose awaits with open arms and smoked meats that pay homage to your Raleigh favorite, ensuring your culinary journey feels both new and nostalgically comforting.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate plays a crucial role in your decision-making process. Understanding how Raleigh, NC and San Jose, CA compare in key housing aspects can significantly influence your choice. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost, style, and livability between these cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Modern, Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, proximity to parks | Proximity to tech companies, sustainable features |
The stark differences in the median home price and rent between Raleigh and San Jose reflect the broader cost of living and economic landscape of these regions. Raleigh's housing market offers more budget-friendly options, with prevailing Colonial and Craftsman architecture, complementing its suburban feel and green spaces. Conversely, San Jose's housing market is markedly pricier, catering to its high-income tech workforce with modern and Spanish Revival styles. This urban center prides itself on walkability, bikeability, and a strong urban lifestyle, closely tied to its role as a tech hub. The emphasis on proximity to tech companies and sustainable features in San Jose's real estate listings underscores the city's commitment to innovation and environmental consciousness.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Raleigh vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the climate and weather conditions will change. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Raleigh, NC, and San Jose, CA , to better prepare you for your new environment. Knowing what to expect can help you adjust more comfortably to your new home.
Raleigh, NC
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Raleigh to San Jose, you can look forward to more sunny days and milder winters. San Jose enjoys over 50 more days of sunshine annually than Raleigh, and its winters are significantly warmer, with average lows not dropping below freezing as they often do in Raleigh. This difference can notably reduce the need for heavy winter clothing and heating. Additionally, San Jose's lower average annual humidity and rainfall make it a more comfortable environment for those sensitive to humidity and mold. However, it's important to note the higher average UV index in San Jose, meaning you'll need to be vigilant about sun protection. The drastic reduction in annual rainfall and complete absence of snow outline a significant change in lifestyle, possibly affecting everything from your wardrobe to your outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to San Jose
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial differences between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison between Raleigh, NC, and San Jose, CA, will highlight the key economic factors, such as income, taxes, and living costs, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect money and finance-wise.
| Comparison | Raleigh | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Increasing | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
Moving from Raleigh to San Jose, you'll face a significant jump in the cost of living, reflected both in the index and average household income. Despite San Jose offering higher average income, it's crucial to consider the state's higher income and sales taxes, which might offset the income advantage to some extent. Moreover, while both cities champion the tech industry, San Jose's affluence and economic landscape are shaped by its prominent tech sector, indicating diverse job opportunities albeit with a higher living cost. Understanding these nuances will aid in a smoother financial transition.
Raleigh vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
In this brief overview, we're providing a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between Raleigh, NC, and San Jose, CA . This comparison aims to give you a glimpse into the cultural and societal landscapes you'll be transitioning between as you plan your move.
| Raleigh | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with a mix of liberal and conservative views | Liberal, with progressive policies on housing and environment |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, diverse religious communities | High religious diversity, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism |
When moving from Raleigh to San Jose, you'll find that both cities have a Democratic majority, though San Jose is known for its stronger liberal tilt, particularly in its progressive stances on various social issues. Raleigh presents a more balanced political atmosphere, embodying a blend of both conservative and liberal views. This contrast is reflective of the broader state political climates, with North Carolina having a history of fluctuating political leanings and California being a stronghold for the Democratic party. On the religious front, while Christianity is the predominant faith in both cities, San Jose stands out for its higher religious diversity, hosting vibrant Buddhist, Hindu, and other religious communities alongside its Christian population. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of San Jose, offering newcomers a wide array of cultural and religious experiences.
Raleigh vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA, it's vital to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & San Jose will give you a clearer perspective.
| Comparison | Raleigh | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but it's challenging |
In Raleigh, the average commute time is slightly less than in San Jose, which can be advantageous for those looking to save time on their daily travels. However, Raleigh scores lower in terms of public transit availability, indicating a higher dependence on personal vehicles. In contrast, San Jose offers better public transit options, making it somewhat more feasible to live without a car, though it still presents its challenges given its higher traffic congestion score. Understanding these dynamics can help you plan your daily commute more effectively, whether it's finding the best routes, adjusting travel times, or considering alternative transportation methods in your new city.
Additional Resources
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