Best Raleigh to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 730 mile move from North Carolina to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 66 Raleigh to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Boston. 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 Boston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | 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 Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 730 miles from Raleigh, NC to Boston, MA will cost on average $2,042 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Boston move is roughly $4,897. 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 | $1,374 | 300 ft³ | 4.58 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,042 | 450 ft³ | 4.54 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,371 | 750 ft³ | 4.49 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,897 | 1100 ft³ | 4.45 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,055 | 1600 ft³ | 4.41 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,861 | 1800 ft³ | 4.37 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Boston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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 | - |
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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when relocating to an entirely new city. To ease your transition, we've developed a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Boston, MA . This guide will help you find a Boston neighborhood that mirrors the vibe of your favorite Raleigh area, making your new city feel just a bit more like home.
| Raleigh | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | Back Bay | Both feature upscale shopping and dining |
| Oakwood | Beacon Hill | Historic homes, walkable streets |
| Boylan Heights | South End | Historic architecture, strong community feel |
| Cameron Village | North End | Both have a vibrant local scene with shops and cafes |
| Five Points | Jamaica Plain | Eclectic vibe, inclusive community |
| Warehouse District | Seaport District | Industrial history turned modern hotspot |
| Mordecai | Charlestown | Both offer historical significance with a tight-knit community |
| Glenwood South | Fenway | Both are nightlife hubs near universities |
| Brier Creek | Allston | Young, energetic, and full of amenities |
| Hayes Barton | Brookline | Upscale residential areas with beautiful parks |
For instance, if you're charmed by the historic and picturesque streets of Oakwood in Raleigh, Beacon Hill in Boston will captivate you with its cobblestone streets, brick sidewalks, and gas-lit lamps, creating an atmosphere teeming with history. Imagine strolling down Charles Street to peruse the boutiques or enjoying a picnic at the Boston Common, the country's oldest city park. For those who enjoy the eclectic and vibrant energy of Five Points, Jamaica Plain offers a similarly inclusive community with a wide array of unique eateries, like the original JP Licks, and artsy boutiques. Jamaica Plain also boasts of the Arnold Arboretum, offering a sprawling green space perfect for outdoor activities. These similarities aim to make your transition from Raleigh to Boston smoother and more familiar by aligning your lifestyle preferences with your new neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Boston
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision, filled with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Boston, MA . It's designed to help you weigh the pros against the cons, and vice versa, ultimately providing you with a well-rounded view of what to expect from your new city.
Raleigh, NC- Less Public Transit
- Warmer Winters
- Slower Pace
- Lower Cost of Living
Boston, MA- Extensive Public Transit
- Snowy Winters
- Lively City Life
- Higher Salary Potential
Boston, MA- Cold Winters
- Faster Pace
- Higher Cost of Living
- Less Personal Space
Raleigh, NC- Warmer Winters
- Slower Pace
- Lower Cost of Living
- More Personal Space
Moving from Raleigh to Boston introduces you to a bustling city filled with cultural and historical landmarks such as the Public Garden and Freedom Trail. The lively city life in Boston offers an array of dining options, from the renowned seafood at Legal Sea Foods to the Italian delicacies found in the North End. Boston's extensive public transit system, the MBTA, connects you to neighborhoods far and wide, unlike the more car-dependent lifestyle in Raleigh. While the cost of living and pace of life may be an adjustment, the opportunity for higher salary potential and the vibrant urban environment present exciting new adventures.
Raleigh vs. Boston Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Boston gives you a taste of what to expect from the food scene when relocating. Food is a window into the local culture, and understanding it can enrich your experience of settling into a new place.
| Raleigh | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | BBQ Tacos | Fried Clams |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegan New England Chowder |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When exploring Boston's culinary landscape, neighborhoods like the North End offer an immersive experience into the city's rich Italian history, think fresh cannoli and authentic pasta dishes. Meanwhile, food lovers in Boston will quickly note the legendary status of clam chowder, available at many local joints, but especially noted at spots like Legal Harborside and Union Oyster House—America’s oldest running restaurant. For those inclined towards more plant-based options, Boston’s increasing vegan scene includes innovative dishes like Vegan New England Chowder that mimic traditional flavors without compromising on taste. These offerings reflect the diverse and vibrant food scene that awaits your exploration.
Raleigh vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite place to dine can make a new city feel like home. This comparison between Raleigh and Boston restaurants is designed to help you discover your new go-to spots by leveraging your existing favorites. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences, casual eats, or iconic food joints, this guide has got you covered.
| Raleigh | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Brewery Bhavana | Trillium Brewing | Known for innovative brews and a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Poole's Diner | Neptune Oyster | Upscale eatery with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced seafood. |
| Garland | Oleana | Offers an inventive menu inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. |
| Bida Manda | Myers + Chang | A trendy spot for Asian-inspired cuisine and creative cocktails. |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Sweet Cheeks Q | Southern-style barbecue and comfort food in a laid-back setting. |
| Clyde Cooper's BBQ | The Smoke Shop BBQ | Award-winning BBQ with a wide selection of whiskey. |
| La Farm Bakery | Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Famous for its pastries, bread, and cozy café atmosphere. |
| Angus Barn | Grill 23 & Bar | High-end steakhouse known for its prime cuts and elegant ambiance. |
| Ashley Christensen Restaurants | Barbara Lynch Gruppo | Collection of dining spots offering everything from casual eats to fine dining. |
| Morgan Street Food Hall | Time Out Market Boston | A culinary and cultural market housing some of the city's top chefs and restaurateurs. |
Exploring the dining scenes in Raleigh and Boston, you'll find that both cities boast vibrant food landscapes catering to a broad spectrum of tastes. While Brewery Bhavana offers a unique blend of brewery, flower shop, and bookshop, Boston's Trillium Brewing focuses on crafting innovative beers that make it a staple among local beer aficionados. Similarly, if you've enjoyed the lively atmosphere and inventive Asian cuisine at Bida Manda, Myers + Chang in Boston will feel like a culinary haven with its creative Asian-inspired dishes and cocktails. For those who relish the taste of Southern comfort food, Beasley's Chicken + Honey in Raleigh finds a counterpart in Boston's Sweet Cheeks Q, where the focus on barbecue and hearty side dishes conjures the warmth of Southern-style cooking.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when moving, making it essential to compare the differences between Raleigh, NC , and Boston, MA . This comparison will highlight key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to better understand what each city offers.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Colonial | Victorian and Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Garages | Access to public transit, Historic details |
The median home price and rent in Boston are significantly higher than in Raleigh, reflecting Boston's dense, urban environment and rich history. Boston ranks high in walkability and urban lifestyle, indicative of the city's compact layout and the prevalence of amenities within walking distance. This contrasts with Raleigh's more scattered, car-dependent layout but offers larger living spaces, often highlighted by spacious yards and garages in property listings. These factors represent important considerations depending on your lifestyle preferences and financial budget.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Raleigh vs. Boston Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Raleigh, NC to Boston, MA, understanding the climatic changes is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the weather conditions you'll experience, helping you prepare for your new home. Weather comparisons between Raleigh and Boston significantly highlight how your daily life and seasonal activities might change.
Raleigh, NC
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms | Blizzards, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Raleigh to Boston, you'll notice significant changes, especially during winter. Boston experiences colder winters with more snowfall, averaging 48 inches a year compared to Raleigh's minimal 5 inches. This drastic difference means you'll likely need to invest in winter gear and potentially adjust to a new routine during the snowy months. Despite Raleigh having slightly more days of sunshine per year, both cities enjoy a considerable amount of sunny days, but you'll find Boston's summers to be a tad cooler. These differences in climate can affect everything from your daily activities to your wardrobe choices, so planning ahead will make your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Boston
Moving from one city to another can drastically change your financial landscape. Understanding how your cost of living, taxes, and employment opportunities compare in your new environment is essential. This comparison aims to highlight the financial implicatio ns of moving from Raleigh to Boston to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 5.00 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 1.22 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Finance, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Medium |
| Homelessness | Low | Medium |
When considering a move from Raleigh to Boston, it's crucial to prepare for a significant shift in the cost of living. Boston's cost of living index is substantially higher, primarily due to housing costs. However, this increase is partially offset by higher average household incomes and a vibrant job market in leading industries such as finance, education, and healthcare. State and sales tax rates are somewhat comparable, but property taxes are higher in Boston, which can impact long-term homeownership costs. Understanding these differences will help you plan more effectively for your financial future in a new city.
Raleigh vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
If you're on the move from Raleigh, NC, to Boston, MA, understanding the communities you're leaving and joining is essential. This quick comparison focuses on the political and religious makeup of Raleigh & Boston , providing a snapshot of the local ethos you'll experience. It's like getting a preview of your new neighbors’ mindset.
| Raleigh | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Highly progressive, historic focus on education and healthcare |
| Religion | Mix of Protestant and other Christian denominations | Catholic majority with diverse religious communities |
When moving from Raleigh to Boston, you'll find both cities share a penchant for progressive politics, but Boston's history of advocating for education and healthcare puts it on another level of community engagement. Raleigh's balanced mix of Protestant and other Christian faiths contrasts with Boston's Catholic majority, reflecting the cultural roots of each city. Understanding these dynamics can help ease your transition, making Boston's rich, historical backdrop a new and inviting home for you.
Raleigh vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Boston, MA means adapting to different daily routines, especially regarding your commute. This comparison will help you better understand the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Boston, preparing you for the changes ahead in how you get around.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Raleigh, a personal vehicle is almost a necessity due to the limited public transit options, making the average commute time shorter but requiring a car for most activities. Boston, on the other hand, boasts an extensive public transit system, allowing residents to easily navigate the city without a personal vehicle, despite higher traffic congestion. The reliance on public transportation in Boston significantly changes daily routines from those in Raleigh, offering a more communal but potentially more time-consuming commute. Adjusting to this change will take some time but can also open up new ways of experiencing city life.
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