Best Raleigh to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,915 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Raleigh to Santa Rosa 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Santa Rosa. 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 Santa Rosa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Celis Movers | 9.37 | 9.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Santa Rosa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,915 miles from Raleigh, NC to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $4,260 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Santa Rosa move is roughly $10,304. 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 | $2,855 | 300 ft³ | 9.52 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,260 | 450 ft³ | 9.47 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,063 | 750 ft³ | 9.42 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,304 | 1100 ft³ | 9.37 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,907 | 1600 ft³ | 9.32 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,680 | 1800 ft³ | 9.27 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Santa Rosa Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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 | - |
Celis Movers
601 Petaluma Blvd N C
Petaluma, CA, 94952
About Celis Movers
Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...
Services
- Local moving services
- Nationwide moving services
- Strategic warehousing locations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2594954 / 921948 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 95,000 (2023) |
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) |
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. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. To help ease this transition, we've created a comparison that matches the vibe and amenities of popular Raleigh, NC neighborhoods with their counterparts in Santa Rosa, CA. You'll discover how each neighborhood in Raleigh matches a Santa Rosa counterpart, making your move feel a little more like coming home.
| Raleigh | Santa Rosa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville Street | Downtown Santa Rosa | Vibrant city life, dining |
| Five Points | Montgomery Village | Shopping, local charm |
| North Hills | Bennett Valley | Family-friendly, shopping centers |
| Cameron Village | Railroad Square | Historical area, unique shops |
| Glenwood South | Santa Rosa Avenue | Nightlife, eclectic dining |
| Boylan Heights | West End Santa Rosa | Historic homes, community feel |
| Oakwood | McDonald Historic District | Stately homes, history |
| Mordecai | Roseland | Diverse communities, local eateries |
| Warehouse District | SofA District | Artsy, vibrant community spaces |
| Midtown | Annadel | Scenic views, outdoor activities |
Exploring new neighborhoods is always exciting, and you'll find that Santa Rosa has much to offer. For instance, Downtown Santa Rosa mirrors Fayetteville Street's vibrancy with an array of dining and entertainment options that come to life both day and night. Similarly, if you're charmed by the historic and community-oriented vibes of Boylan Heights, West End Santa Rosa offers a similar atmosphere, with its historic homes and inviting community. For those who appreciate the unique shops and historical ambiance of Cameron Village, Railroad Square in Santa Rosa provides a quaint yet similarly enriched shopping experience surrounded by historical architecture. Whether your preference leans towards the arts, dining, or shopping, each Santa Rosa neighborhood presents its own charm and attractions, making your transition from Raleigh not just a move, but an exciting journey into a new community.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Santa Rosa
Making a move from Raleigh, NC to Santa Rosa, CA presents an array of shifts in lifestyle and opportunities. This comparison aims to highlight the Raleigh to Santa Rosa relocation journey by showcasing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation . By contrasting the pros and cons, potential movers can gauge the changes they can anticipate in terms of climate, cost of living, and cultural offerings.
Raleigh, NC- Higher humidity
- Less wine culture
- Fewer outdoor activities
- Lower average salary
Santa Rosa, CA- Milder climate
- Rich wine country
- Abundant outdoor activities
- Higher average salary
- More liberal atmosphere
Santa Rosa, CA- Higher cost of living
- More expensive housing
- Less historical emphasis
- Cooler summers
- Fewer sports teams
Raleigh, NC- Lower cost of living
- Family-friendly communities
- Rich historical sites
- Warm summers
- Lively local sports
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Santa Rosa, CA, you'll transition from a region known for its hot, humid summers to an area celebrated for its milder climate and world-renowned wine country, such as Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens. Santa Rosa's abundance of outdoor activities is unparalleled, offering everything from hiking in Annadel State Park to ballooning over scenic vineyards. While Raleigh boasts a strong sense of community and historical roots, with attractions like the North Carolina Museum of History, Santa Rosa offers a more liberal atmosphere and a higher average salary, albeit with a higher cost of living. However, the cultural shift to Santa Rosa unlocks access to a vibrant community, celebrated dining venues like Willi's Wine Bar, and a front-row seat to Northern California's breathtaking landscapes.
Raleigh vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide
Exploring new culinary landscapes is a thrilling part of relocating. This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh, NC & Santa Rosa, CA gives you a flavorful preview of what awaits in these vibrant locales, helping you transition more seamlessly into your new food scene.
| Raleigh | Santa Rosa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pulled pork BBQ | Wine country cuisine |
| Most popular meat dish | Eastern NC barbecue | Grass-fed beef |
| Most popular street food item | Carolina-style hot dogs | Artisan tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ jackfruit | Seasonal vegetable dishes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, the heart of North Carolina's culinary scene, you can indulge in the traditional Eastern NC barbecue, especially at renowned joints like The Pit. Meanwhile, Santa Rosa, nestled in California's wine country, offers a unique blend of local flavors, with establishments like Willow Wood Market Cafe providing a taste of the region's seasonal produce and artisan fare. Santa Rosa elevates the concept of farm-to-table dining, reflecting its higher health consciousness and offering a diverse, vegan-friendly menu that mirrors the city's agricultural bounty. Both cities showcase a zeal for fitness and a rich food truck culture, albeit Raleigh has a slight edge in the latter. As you settle into your new home, you'll find both cities offer distinct but equally enticing culinary experiences.
Raleigh vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison
Exploring a new city's dining scene can be just as crucial to feeling at home as finding the right neighborhood. This comparison of restaurants from Raleigh, NC, to their counterparts in Santa Rosa, CA, aims to ease your transition. By highlighting top eateries in Raleigh and matching them with similar spots in Santa Rosa, you'll discover new favorites and continue to enjoy the flavors you love.
| Raleigh | Santa Rosa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Brewery Bhavana | Russian River Brewing Company | Both offer craft beers with a great food selection |
| Poole's Diner | Stark's Steak & Seafood | Upscale dining with a focus on quality ingredients |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Willie Bird's Restaurant | Known for poultry dishes and comforting sides |
| Bida Manda | Khoom Lanna | Both specialize in authentic Southeast Asian cuisine |
| Garland | Dierk's Parkside Café | Creative and flavorful menus rooted in local traditions |
| Clyde Cooper's BBQ | Sonoma County BBQ | Classic barbecue menus reflecting local tastes and traditions |
| Morgan Street Food Hall | Sebastopol Farmer's Market | Emphasis on local vendors and fresh, diverse food offerings |
| Death & Taxes | Jackson's Bar and Oven | Both have a modern take on American cuisine with an impressive wine list |
| The Angus Barn | Cattlemen's | Iconic steakhouses known for their quality cuts and rustic charm |
| Capital Club 16 | Riviera Restaurant | European-inspired dishes with a cozy and inviting atmosphere |
For those who cherish the craft beer and artistic ambience of Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh, Santa Rosa's Russian River Brewing Company offers a notable parallel with its renowned brews and satisfying cuisine. If you're drawn to the unique and regional flavors of Clyde Cooper's BBQ, Sonoma County BBQ in Santa Rosa ensures that the tradition of delectable smoked meats is well represented on the west coast. Meanwhile, fans of Bida Manda's Southeast Asian fare will find comfort in the authentic dishes of Khoom Lanna, where the essence of Thai and Laotian cuisine is celebrated with every plate. Each Santa Rosa establishment, much like its Raleigh counterpart, holds a unique charm and dedication to quality and atmosphere, promising to make every dining out experience memorable.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Raleigh, NC, and Santa Rosa, CA is essential. Getting to know the difference in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between these two cities can help you make an informed decision. Let's delve into how these cities compare in various housing aspects.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, proximity to research parks | Vineyard views, proximity to wine country |
When moving from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Rosa, CA, one notable difference is the cost of living, particularly in the housing market. Santa Rosa's median home price and rent are significantly higher than those in Raleigh, reflecting the premium of living in California's wine country. However, this price difference comes with perks. Santa Rosa boasts better walkability and bikeability, offering an active, outdoor lifestyle that is not as easily found in Raleigh. The architecture in Santa Rosa also leans more towards modern designs, often featuring homes with views of the vineyards—a stark contrast to Raleigh's more traditional Colonial and Craftsman homes. Essentially, while Santa Rosa may require a higher budget, it compensates with a more engaging urban lifestyle and unique scenic beauty.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA
1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.
2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.
3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.
Raleigh vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Santa Rosa, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather will impact your daily life. This comparison aims to highlight the variances in climate and environmental conditions between Raleigh and Santa Rosa, helping you prepare for your new surroundings.
Raleigh, NC
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Santa Rosa enjoys more days of sunshine yearly and generally milder winters compared to Raleigh, making it an attractive option for those who prefer less extreme seasonal temperature shifts. However, Santa Rosa faces its unique challenges, such as a higher likelihood of wildfires and earthquakes, unlike Raleigh’s frequent hurricanes and tornadoes. The air quality in Santa Rosa is typically better, given its proximity to the coast and stringent California environmental regulations. This difference in climate and natural disaster risks is essential to consider in preparation for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Santa Rosa
When deciding to move, understanding the financial implications of your destination is crucial. This comparison highlights the money and finance differences between Raleigh, NC, and Santa Rosa, CA, essential for planning your move and budget accordingly.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $86,459 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 8.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Wine Production, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Relatively affluent |
| Poverty | Lower than average | Higher than average |
| Homelessness | Manageable | More noticeable |
Moving from Raleigh to Santa Rosa, you're transitioning from a relatively affordable city to a more costly living environment. The significant disparity in the Cost of Living Index, paired with higher state income and sales tax rates in California, demands a thorough financial plan. While both cities boast strong economies with diverse top industries, Santa Rosa's unique position in the wine production sector adds a distinctive economic dynamic. Consider these financial aspects carefully as they will influence your lifestyle and budgeting in your new city.
Raleigh vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Santa Rosa provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. It's crafted to give you a clearer understanding of the cultural and societal atmosphere you're moving into.
| Raleigh | Santa Rosa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Business-friendly policies | Strong environmental and social equity programs |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population | Diverse, less religiously affiliated |
In Raleigh, the political climate is generally progressive, with a tendency to lean Democratic, which resonates through its local policies that are often characterized as business-friendly. It hosts a diverse religious community with a notable presence of Christian faith across various denominations. Moving to Santa Rosa, you'll find a more pronounced Democratic stronghold, reflecting in the city's active environmental and social equity initiatives. Santa Rosa presents a more secular community compared to Raleigh, though religious diversity still exists. This shift might offer you a different community engagement and participation experience, especially in local politics and social issues.
Raleigh vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Santa Rosa, CA necessitates understanding a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Santa Rosa to better gauge what daily commutes might look like. This comparative look provides insights into average commute times, traffic congestion, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a car in each city.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Raleigh, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Santa Rosa, reflecting a moderate level of traffic congestion. Public transit in Raleigh is present but not as extensive or relied upon as in Santa Rosa, where the transit system is more established, making it slightly easier to navigate the city without a car. Living car-free is more feasible in Santa Rosa compared to Raleigh, thanks to a combination of better public transit availability and less traffic congestion. This difference can significantly impact your daily routines and the overall cost of living, as the need for a personal vehicle in Santa Rosa might be less pressing than in Raleigh.
Additional Resources
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