Best Durham to Nashville Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Nashville and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 514 mile move from North Carolina to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Durham to Nashville 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Nashville. 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 Nashville 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
4Little Guys Movers Nashville9.069.01Authorized For HHGContact
56th Man Movers9.008.79Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Durham to Nashville

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 514 miles from Durham, NC to Nashville, TN will cost on average $2,218 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Nashville move is roughly $5,313. 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$1,494300 ft³4.98
1 Bedroom$2,218450 ft³4.93
2 Bedrooms$3,660750 ft³4.88
3 Bedrooms$5,3131100 ft³4.83
4 Bedrooms$7,6471600 ft³4.78
5+ Bedrooms$8,5131800 ft³4.73
*Please note: These North Carolina to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Tennessee. 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 TN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Nashville to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Nashville 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
Little Guys Movers Nashville Logo

Little Guys Movers Nashville

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 182+ data points

Nashville, TN, 37201

About Little Guys Movers Nashville

Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater to...

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4004993 / 1506293

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
6th Man Movers Logo

6th Man Movers

Superb9.00/10
based on 5,314+ data points

309 Hermitage Ave

Nashville, TN, 37210

About 6th Man Movers

As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance
  • Labor Only

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2315850 / 853001

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved12,508 (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.

Durham vs. Nashville Neighborhood Comparison

If you're contemplating a move from Durham, NC to Nashville, TN, getting to know your new city can feel like a daunting challenge. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Nashville, TN, pinpointing the most analogous areas in Nashville to your favorite spots in Durham. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.

DurhamNashvilleHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkEast NashvilleVibrant arts scene
Old West Durham12 SouthTrendy, walkable area
Forest HillsGreen HillsUpscale, serene suburban feel
WoodcroftBellevueFamily-friendly with good parks
Downtown DurhamGermantownHistoric, with bustling nightlife
BrightleafThe GulchModern, urban living
American Tobacco DistrictSoBroEntertainment hub, nightlife
Hope ValleyBelle MeadeExclusive, with golf courses
RockwoodSylvan ParkFriendly community, local eats
Watts Hospital-HillandaleHillsboro VillageBohemian, with local shops

In exploring the vibrant spirit of both cities, places like Trinity Park in Durham, known for its robust arts scene which finds a Nashville echo in the eclectic vibe of East Nashville, brimming with galleries, music venues, and artisanal boutiques. Similarly, the historic charm and tight-knit community of Old West Durham have much in common with 12 South in Nashville, where trendy establishments line the sidewalks, inviting casual strolls and frequent stops to enjoy local coffee shops, boutiques, and eateries like Frothy Monkey. Meanwhile, those drawn to the luxurious, laid-back atmosphere of Hope Valley will find themselves at home in Belle Meade, where stately homes adjoin high-end shopping and exceptional dining venues, mirroring Durham's penchant for combining upscale living with accessible luxuries.

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Things to Do in Nashville

  • Explore Radnor Lake State Park
  • Enjoy live music at The Ryman Auditorium
  • Visit Country Music Hall of Fame
  • Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
  • Try hot chicken at Prince's
  • Attend a Nashville Predators game
  • Shop at 12 South

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Nashville

Moving from one city to another can be a life-changing decision, and it's crucial to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages before taking the leap. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the pros and cons of relocating from Durham, NC, to Nashville, TN , ensuring you make an informed choice. Read on to uncover how your life might change, for better or worse, with this move.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Fewer nightlife options
  • Less dynamic dining scene
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Livelier music scene
  • Bigger job market
  • More vibrant nightlife
  • Broader culinary variety
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Larger city feel
  • Higher living costs
  • Fewer educational landmarks
  • Urbanized parks
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Close-knit community
  • More affordable housing
  • Rich academic environment
  • Lush green spaces

Delving deeper into the contrasts, Nashville's reputation as a music city is not unfounded. Places like Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame exemplify the rich musical heritage that awaits you. On the other hand, Durham's academic environment, fostered by institutions like Duke University, has created a vibrant community that's hard to leave behind. While Nashville offers a wider array of dining options, including renowned establishments like Prince's Hot Chicken, Durham's food scene, with gems like Pizzeria Toro, offers its unique charm. Notably, the transition from Durham's abundant greenery, such as at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, to Nashville's urbanized Centennial Park, represents a significant shift toward city living, albeit with its distinct scenic beauty.

Durham vs. Nashville Food Guide

When considering a move, it's crucial to delve into the culinary landscape of your new home. Food is a vibrant facet of local culture and living experience. In this guide, we'll elucidate on the comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and Nashville, TN , to enrich your understanding of the food scene in these cities.

DurhamNashville
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQHot Chicken
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemBiscuitsTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan BBQVegan Soul Food
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Dame's Chicken & Waffles
  • Prince's Hot Chicken
  • Hattie B's Hot Chicken
  • The Catbird Seat
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Nashville, you'll find the city's pride, Hot Chicken, at spots like Prince's Hot Chicken and Hattie B's, which have cult followings among locals and tourists alike. The city’s food scene is not just about meat; there's an emerging vegan culture spotlighted by establishments offering vegan soul food, showing Nashville's culinary diversity. For those who cherish street food, the vibrant taco scene, particularly in areas like East Nashville, showcases a delicious blend of traditional and innovative takes on the Mexican staple. Upon moving to Nashville, you'll plunge into a foodie paradise where traditional Southern cuisine meets an eclectic mix of flavors, supported by an array of food trucks and health-conscious options.

Durham vs. Nashville Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, but finding comfort in your new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Durham and Nashville will guide you to your next favorite dining spots, easing the transition from one beloved locale to another. Let's dive into the culinary landscapes of both cities to find where your taste buds will feel right at home.

DurhamNashvilleWhat You'll Love
Nana's RestaurantThe Catbird SeatIntimate fine dining with unique tasting menus
Mateo Bar de TapasBarcelona Wine BarWide variety of tapas and a notable wine selection
Pizzeria ToroFive Points PizzaAuthentic wood-fired pizzas in a laid-back atmosphere
Dame's Chicken & WafflesHattie B's Hot ChickenFamous for its Southern fried chicken and waffles
Joe Van GoghBarista ParlorBoutique cafe with high quality coffee and unique atmosphere
Bull City Burger and BreweryThe Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer GardenCraft burgers with an extensive beer selection
LocopopsLas Paletas Gourmet PopsiclesHand-crafted popsicles with unique flavors
Rue ClerMarche Artisan FoodsEuropean-inspired cafe with exquisite brunch options
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenFrothy MonkeyBakery, café, and wine bar with a warm, inviting atmosphere
Pompieri PizzaDeSano Pizza BakeryAuthentic Neapolitan pizza with quality ingredients

Exploring the vibrant culinary scenes of your new city can be one of the most exciting parts of moving. For example, if you’ve loved the warm, intimate dining at Nana's in Durham, you’ll likely find a new favorite in Nashville's The Catbird Seat, where the chefs craft a memorable experience with unique, innovative dishes. On a more casual note, the jump from enjoying Durham's Mateo Bar de Tapas to indulging at Barcelona Wine Bar in Nashville promises a seamless transition with their shared commitment to a wide variety of tapas and an extensive wine list. Such comparisons highlight the culinary diversity and richness awaiting you in Nashville, ensuring your move doesn’t mean leaving behind the tastes you love but expanding your palate to embrace new favorites.

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Durham vs. Nashville Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, making it essential to understand how Durham and Nashville stack up. This comparison provides insight into the crucial factors such as costs, lifestyles, and living conditions in both cities, guiding your decision-making process.

ComparisonDurhamNashville
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanVictorian, Modern Farmhouse
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, proximity to universitiesEntertainment districts, historic features

Choosing between Durham and Nashville involves considering several factors beyond just the numbers. Durham's colonial and craftsman homes often come with spacious yards, reflecting its slightly more suburban character, especially valued by those affiliated with the city's prominent universities like Duke University. On the other hand, Nashville's iconic Victorian and modern farmhouse styles align with its vibrant urban lifestyle, often highlighted by the city's rich entertainment districts and historic features. The differences in architecture and urban offerings can significantly impact daily living experiences, from commuting to enjoying local amenities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Nashville, TN

1. 12 South: This neighborhood boasts a friendly atmosphere with multiple pet-friendly cafes and boutiques, including the popular Frothy Monkey where you and your furry friend can enjoy a sunny day outside.

2. East Nashville: Known for its inclusive and laid-back vibe, East Nashville offers numerous dog parks and pet-friendly patios such as those at The Crying Wolf, ensuring your pet is always welcome.

3. Germantown: This neighborhood is a gem for pet owners, featuring walkable streets, pet-friendly restaurants like Von Elrod's Beer Hall & Kitchen, and easy access to the spacious Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park for long walks and outdoor adventures with your pet.

Durham vs. Nashville Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Durham, NC, to Nashville, TN, it's crucial to understand how the weather conditions compare . This comparison will help you anticipate changes and better prepare for your new environment, especially if weather plays a significant role in your daily life or recreational activities. The Durham vs. Nashville weather chart below highlights several key weather aspects to consider.

Summer icon
89/68

Durham, NC

89/70

Nashville, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

49/28

Nashville, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41

Durham, NC

47

Nashville, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

6

Nashville, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDurhamNashville
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, StormsTornadoes, Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Durham and Nashville experience hot summers and mild winters, Nashville tends to have a slightly higher average for both summer lows and winter lows, indicating milder night-time temperatures year-round. One key difference is in the occurrence of natural disasters: Durham is more susceptible to hurricanes, while Nashville's primary concern is tornadoes. Additionally, Nashville records a slightly higher annual rainfall and snowfall than Durham. Understanding these nuances can help you better prepare for outdoor activities, home maintenance, and choosing the right insurance policies in your new hometown.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects such as income, taxes, and cost of living stack up. This comparison between Durham and Nashville aims to highlight key financial differences to better prepare you for your transition.

ComparisonDurhamNashville
Avg. Household Income$71,343$64,857
Cost of Living Index96.688.9
State Income Tax5.250 (only on dividends & interest)
Avg. Property Tax0.780.93
Avg. Sales Tax7.59.25
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, BiotechnologyMusic, Healthcare, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLower than national averageHigher than national average
HomelessnessMinimalModerate

When analyzing the broader picture, both Durham and Nashville offer unique financial climates. Durham, with its focus on education and biotech, has a slightly lower average household income than Nashville, which thrives on music, healthcare, and tourism. State income tax is a significant difference, with Tennessee not levying a tax on wages, which can lead to more disposable income. However, Nashville's higher sales and property tax rates can offset this benefit to some extent. Understanding these nuances can help you budget more effectively and set realistic expectations for your move.

Durham vs. Nashville Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another offers a fresh perspective not only on your surroundings but also on the community you're joining. This comparison of the politics between Durham & Nashville provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the cultural landscape of your new home.

DurhamNashville
Political Make-upLiberalModerate to Liberal
Local PoliticsDemocratic DominanceDemocratic Lean, but more Mixed
ReligionChristianity Predominant, Diverse Religious CommunityChristianity Predominant, with a notable New American religious diversity

In both Durham, NC, and Nashville, TN, you'll find communities where liberal and moderate political views often interact, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of each city. Durham is known for its strong Democratic presence, a characteristic evident in local governance and community initiatives. Nashville, while sharing a liberal mindset in many urban areas, showcases a more mixed political environment, reflecting Tennessee's traditionally conservative roots alongside evolving progressive views. The religious landscape in both cities is predominantly Christian, yet they pride themselves on religious diversity, with Nashville, in particular, being home to a growing New American population bringing a wide range of cultural and religious traditions.

Durham vs. Nashville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC to Nashville, TN? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Nashville will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might look like in these cities.

ComparisonDurhamNashville
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2225
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible with effortChallenging

When moving from Durham to Nashville, you’ll notice a slight increase in your average commute time due to Nashville's busier rush hours. Traffic congestion is also higher in Nashville, reflecting its larger size and busier city life. Public transit availability sees a more significant difference, with Durham offering more options and better accessibility. This means getting by without a car in Durham is easier compared to Nashville, where relying solely on public transit can prove to be more challenging. Considering these points, Nashville newcomers should plan their commutes carefully and explore all available transportation options.

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