Best Durham to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 411 mile move from North Carolina to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 52 Durham to Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Philadelphia. 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 Durham to Philadelphia Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.509.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Pineapple Movers9.449.62Authorized For HHGContact
3Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
4Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
5Capital Moving & Storage9.269.47Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Durham to Philadelphia

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 411 miles from Durham, NC to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $1,811 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Philadelphia move is roughly $4,334. 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$1,220300 ft³4.07
1 Bedroom$1,811450 ft³4.02
2 Bedrooms$2,987750 ft³3.98
3 Bedrooms$4,3341100 ft³3.94
4 Bedrooms$6,2361600 ft³3.90
5+ Bedrooms$6,9381800 ft³3.85
*Please note: These North Carolina to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Pennsylvania. 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 PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Philadelphia Movers

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

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,941+ data points

8701 Torresdale Ave

Philadelphia, PA, 19136

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-distance Movers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Pineapple Movers Logo

Pineapple Movers

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 701+ data points

Collingswood, NJ, 08108

About Pineapple Movers

Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579435 / 1208543

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
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
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.

Durham vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This guide aims to help you transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Durham, NC, and Philadelphia, PA . By finding the Philadelphia neighborhoods most similar to your favorites in Durham, you'll feel right at home in no time.

DurhamPhiladelphiaHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkRittenhouse SquareHistoric charm, green spaces
Old West DurhamFishtownVibrant, artsy community
Warehouse DistrictNorthern LibertiesTrendy, converted spaces
Hope ValleyChestnut HillAffluent, historic homes
WoodcroftManayunkFamily-friendly, outdoor activities
Duke ParkQueen VillageTight-knit community, parks
American Tobacco DistrictOld CityRich history, entertainment
Brightleaf SquarePassyunk SquareBustling nightlife, eateries
Cleveland-HollowayMount AiryDiverse, family-oriented
Ninth StreetEast PassyunkEclectic shops, vibrant dining scene

If you cherish the rich history and lush greenery of Trinity Park in Durham, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square, known for its elegant public park surrounded by historic buildings. For those attracted to the vibrant, artsy vibe of Old West Durham, Fishtown offers an eclectic community with innovative restaurants like Pizza Brain and art venues such as Frankford Hall. The transformation of Durham's Warehouse District into a trendy hotspot mirrors Northern Liberties in Philadelphia, where old factories have been repurposed into loft apartments, galleries, and shops, epitomized by the unique Urban Village Brewing Company. For those relocating, finding these similarities can make the transition smoother, as you discover new favorites while reminiscing about your old neighborhood haunts.

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Things to Do in Philadelphia

  • Tour the Liberty Bell Center
  • Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • Eat at Reading Terminal Market
  • Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
  • Stroll through Longwood Gardens
  • Tour Eastern State Penitentiary
  • Bike on Schuylkill Banks

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Philadelphia

Moving from one city to another always comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of moving from Durham, NC to Philadelphia, PA, highlighting the good and bad attributes of such a relocation. Through contrasting the cons with the pros and vice versa, this guide endeavors to provide a well-rounded view to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer public transit options
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower cost of living
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Larger urban culture
  • Better public transit system
  • Wider food variety
  • More amenities
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • More crowded
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less personal vibe
  • Fewer green spaces
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Easier traffic
  • Close-knit communities
  • Proximity to nature

Choosing between Durham and Philadelphia involves considering what you value most in your environment. Durham, with its ease of traffic and close-knit communities, such as those found in the Hope Valley or Woodcroft neighborhoods, provides a peaceful living experience with a strong sense of community. On the other hand, Philadelphia boasts a vibrant urban culture. Its extensive public transit system, including SEPTA, makes navigating the city a breeze. The culinary scene in Philly is as diverse as its neighborhoods; from the historic Italian Market to vibrant Reading Terminal Market, food lovers will find themselves spoilt for choice. The transition from Durham's quieter, more relaxed pace to Philadelphia's bustling, amenity-rich lifestyle offers exciting opportunities, albeit with the trade-off of busier streets and less personal neighborhoods.

Durham vs. Philadelphia Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape is pivotal when relocating, as food is a significant aspect of local culture and lifestyle. This comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC & Philadelphia, PA is crafted to give you a clearer picture of the food scene you're moving into, helping you feel more at home in your new city.

DurhamPhiladelphia
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQCheesesteak
Most popular meat dishPulled porkRoast Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food itemFood truck tacosPretzels
Most popular vegan foodBBQ jackfruitVegan cheesesteak
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nana's
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Zahav
  • Pat's King of Steaks
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Philadelphia's food scene is iconic, with the cheesesteak at the heart of its culinary identity. Not just any cheesesteak, but one from renowned spots like Pat's King of Steaks or Geno's Steaks, found in the vibrant Passyunk Square neighborhood, defines the Philly food experience. Moreover, the city’s love for pretzels as a go-to street food embodies Philadelphia's rich tradition in snack food, easily found at vendors throughout the city, especially in bustling locations like Reading Terminal Market. Philadelphia also prides itself on a growing vegan scene, offering plant-based versions of its famous dishes, making it a welcoming place for diverse diets. This culinary comparison reveals a rich tapestry of flavors waiting for you in your new city, with every neighborhood offering a slice of Philadelphia's gastronomic story.

Durham vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison

Finding your next favorite dining spot can be a mouthwatering journey. This restaurant comparison between Durham and Philadelphia is designed to ease your transition, making any new city feel like home through its culinary delights. Whether you're craving refined dining experiences or comforting casual eats, this guide aims to connect you with similar restaurants in your new city, Philadelphia, using your Durham favorites as a starting point.

DurhamPhiladelphiaWhat You'll Love
Mateo Bar de TapasTintoArtful Basque small plates
Pizzeria ToroPizzeria VetriNeapolitan-inspired pizzas
Bull City Burger and BreweryVillage WhiskeyGourmet burgers and craft beers
NanaSteakBarclay PrimePrime steaks in an upscale setting
DashiDouble KnotInnovative sushi and robatayaki
GocciolinaOsteriaInventive Italian dishes
Backyard BBQ PitSweet Lucy’s SmokehouseAuthentic barbecue flavors
The ParlourFranklin FountainClassic and creative ice cream
Elmo’s DinerHoney’s Sit 'N EatHomestyle diner comforts
Joe Van GoghLa ColombeExpertly crafted coffee and light bites

As you embark on your culinary expedition in Philadelphia, you'll discover establishments that evoke the spirit of your Durham favorites. Take, for instance, the transition from dining at Mateo Bar de Tapas to savoring the artful Basque delicacies at Tinto; both places plunge you into a world of intricate flavors and cozy ambiances that are perfect for an evening out. Or perhaps the shift from casual, yet refined NanaSteak to the chic Barclay Prime, which promises a continuation of your high-end culinary experiences with its prime cuts and elegant setting. And for those days when only a comforting slice of pizza will do, Pizzeria Vetri stands ready to offer a slice of Neapolitan-inspired heaven that mirrors the artisanal approach of Pizzeria Toro. Each Philadelphia counterpart doesn’t just resemble Durham’s gems in cuisine, but in the experience and atmosphere, ensuring a seamless transition to your new gastronomical landscape.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate presents as a pivotal area of focus, offering insights into living standards and community features. It's crucial to analyze and comprehend how Durham and Philadelphia fare against one another in key housing aspects such as cost, design, and lifestyle. This comparison aims to spotlight the distinctions and similarities to aid in making a well-informed decision.

ComparisonDurhamPhiladelphia
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanRow Houses, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Quiet neighborhoodsHistorical landmarks, Access to public transport

Philadelphia stands out for its higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, a reflection of its dense and vibrant urban core. The city's characteristic row houses and Victorian architecture, along with its rich history, make it a unique place to call home. Unlike Durham, which boasts spacious yards and quieter neighborhoods, Philadelphia provides a bustling urban environment with unparalleled access to public transportation and historical sites such as Independence Hall. Furthermore, while the median home price is notably lower in Philadelphia, the cost of renting is slightly higher, signaling a competitive rental market driven by the city's robust demand for living spaces close to amenities and employment opportunities.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA

1. Manayunk: With its easy access to the Wissahickon Valley Park trails and numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, Manayunk is a paradise for pet owners.

2. Fairmount: Known for its proximity to the expansive Fairmount Park, this neighborhood offers endless green spaces and dog parks for your furry friends to explore.

3. Queen Village: This community shines with its welcoming attitude towards pets, featuring several pet stores, doggy daycares, and the beloved Mario Lanza Park where local dogs love to play.

Durham vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Durham, NC to Philadelphia, PA, it's crucial to grasp how weather conditions in these cities might impact your daily life. This comparison will help you to understand what to expect and ensure you are well-prepared for your new environment.

Summer icon
89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

87°F / 68°F

Philadelphia, PA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

40°F / 26°F

Philadelphia, PA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.4"

Durham, NC

47"

Philadelphia, PA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.5"

Durham, NC

22.4"

Philadelphia, PA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDurhamPhiladelphia
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesSnowstorms, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Despite the similarities in summer temperatures between Durham and Philadelphia, you'll find Philadelphia's winters are generally colder, with more snowfall — about 22.4 inches annually, compared to Durham's lighter 4.5 inches. Additionally, while both cities enjoy a similar number of sunshine days, Philadelphia experiences slightly more humidity and rainfall annually. Notably, the types of natural disasters that could affect each city vary, with Philadelphia more prone to snowstorms and floods, while Durham faces the risk of hurricanes and tornadoes. These distinctions play a crucial role in planning your yearly activities and understanding potential disruptions.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Philadelphia

When moving from Durham, NC to Philadelphia, PA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects differ. Understanding these differences can help you navigate the economic landscape more effectively, ensuring a smoother transition between these two vibrant cities.

ComparisonDurhamPhiladelphia
Avg. Household Income$71,343$52,899
Cost of Living Index96.6126.5
State Income Tax5.253.07
Avg. Property Tax0.850.91
Avg. Sales Tax7.58
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, TechnologyEducation, Healthcare, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerMore visible

Moving to Philadelphia from Durham, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living, despite the average household income in Philadelphia being lower. The slight difference in state income and sales taxes between North Carolina and Pennsylvania may not seem large at first glance, but combined with the higher cost of living and average property taxes in Philadelphia, these factors can significantly impact your budget. Additionally, while both cities boast strong healthcare and education industries, Philadelphia's historical emphasis on manufacturing adds a unique dynamic to its job market. Despite these financial contrasts, both cities offer unique opportunities and challenges, making it essential to plan accordingly.

Durham vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison

This is a comparison of the politics between Durham & Philadelphia, aiming to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This overview will assist you in understanding how your new community might align with your personal beliefs and values.

DurhamPhiladelphia
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesProgressive Policies, Strong Union Influence
ReligionChristianity Predominant, Diverse Religious PresenceChristianity Predominant, Multicultural Religious Communities

When moving from Durham to Philadelphia, you'll find similarities in the liberal and democratic leanings of both cities. Durham and Philadelphia embrace progressive policies, although Philadelphia has a notable presence of strong union influences due to its rich history of labor movements. Religion plays an important role in both communities, with Christianity being predominant. However, both cities boast a diverse religious presence, reflecting their multicultural communities. This diversity is not only limited to places of worship but also influences local festivities, cultural events, and social policies.

Durham vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC to Philadelphia, PA means adapting to new environments, including how you'll navigate daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Philadelphia will help you better understand what to expect in terms of commuting time, congestion, and public transit availability in your new city.

ComparisonDurhamPhiladelphia
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2232
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?ChallengingEasier

In Durham, the shorter average commute time and lower traffic congestion scores reflect a smaller, less densely populated area compared to Philadelphia. However, Durham's public transit accessibility is notably lower, making it more challenging to get around without a car. In contrast, Philadelphia offers a more robust public transit system, as reflected in its higher availability score. This makes living without a car more feasible in Philadelphia, despite higher traffic congestion and longer commute times. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your decision on whether or not to keep a car, and how to plan your daily commute in your new city.

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