Best Raleigh to Richmond Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Richmond and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 155 mile move from North Carolina to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Raleigh to Richmond 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Richmond. 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 Richmond Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Estes SureMove | 9.21 | 9.68 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA | 9.19 | 9.58 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Richmond
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 155 miles from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA will cost on average $1,626 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Richmond move is roughly $3,881. 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 | $1,097 | 300 ft³ | 3.66 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,626 | 450 ft³ | 3.61 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,678 | 750 ft³ | 3.57 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,881 | 1100 ft³ | 3.53 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,578 | 1600 ft³ | 3.49 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,198 | 1800 ft³ | 3.44 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Richmond 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 | - |
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) |
Estes SureMove
3901 W Broad St
Richmond, VA, 23230
About Estes SureMove
The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...
Services
- Home moving
- Employee relocations
- Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 121018 / 97275 Authorized For Property Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9,075 |
| Registered Drivers | 8,573 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 586,187,648 (2023) |
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
424 E Grace St # 92
Richmond, VA, 23219
About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Moving Helpers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3865625 / 1413617 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,000 (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. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make this transition easier, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Richmond, VA. This guide aims to help you find a new home that feels just like the one you're leaving by matching Raleigh neighborhoods with their Richmond counterparts based on their vibe, culture, and amenities.
| Raleigh | Richmond | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | The Fan | Vibrant social scene, shopping |
| Boylan Heights | Church Hill | Rich history, community feel |
| Five Points | Carytown | Eclectic shops, eateries |
| Cameron Village | The Museum District | Shopping, arts |
| Oakwood | Fairmont | Historic homes, quiet streets |
| Hayes Barton | Windsor Farms | Upscale, historic |
| Glenwood South | Scott's Addition | Trendy, nightlife and breweries |
| Mordecai | Barton Heights | Residential, historic charm |
| Warehouse District | Manchester | Industrial vibe, lofts |
| Brier Creek | Short Pump | Modern amenities, shopping |
In exploring these neighborhoods, you'll find that Five Points in Raleigh shares a similar eclectic atmosphere with Carytown in Richmond, celebrated for its unique shops and local eateries such as Carytown Burgers & Fries. Meanwhile, the Warehouse District's industrial-chic ambiance is mirrored in Richmond's Manchester, with spaces like Plant Zero offering a hub for artists and entrepreneurs. For a taste of history combined with a sense of community, Boylan Heights' counterpart, Church Hill, is not to be missed, where landmarks like St. John's Episcopal Church stand testament to Richmond's rich past. Each neighborhood pairing, from Hayes Barton to Windsor Farms, underscores a shared commitment to preserving unique architectural and cultural heritages, while also embracing modern lifestyles and amenities.
Things to Do in Richmond
Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.- Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
- View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
- Attend a concert at The National venue.
- Paddleboarding on James River.
- Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
- Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Richmond
Moving involves weighing the good against the bad, and this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA relocation experience. Through the comparison charts, you'll get a clearer view of what awaits you in your new city, helping you make an informed decision. Let's explore the advantages and challenges.
Raleigh, NC- Limited cultural venues
- Warmer summers
- Smaller tech hub
- Fewer historical sites
- Less diverse cuisine
Richmond, VA- Rich art scene
- Cooler climate
- Growing tech scene
- Rich history
- Vibrant food scene
Richmond, VA- Fewer colleges
- Smaller parks
- Less bike-friendly
- Higher living costs
- Competitive job scene
Raleigh, NC- Vibrant student life
- Large green spaces
- Extensive bike lanes
- Lower housing costs
- Strong job market
In Raleigh, the extensive green spaces such as Lake Johnson Park offer residents a lush getaway within the city limits. However, Richmond counters with its own unique charm, offering historic parks like Richmond National Battlefield Park that not only provide green space but also a deep dive into America’s past. The food scene in Richmond, highlighted by establishments like Sub Rosa Bakery in the Church Hill neighborhood, showcases an eclectic mix of traditional Southern cuisine and international flavors, drawing food lovers from all over. On the technology front, while Raleigh has been known for its Research Triangle Park, Richmond’s growing tech scene, buoyed by initiatives like RVATech, is becoming increasingly attractive to professionals in the sector. These comparisons reflect the complex tapestry of considerations one must navigate when relocating, where each city has its unique offerings and challenges.
Raleigh vs. Richmond Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh, NC, and Richmond, VA, highlighting the importance of food as a part of local culture and living experience. Understanding the culinary differences can help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city.
| Raleigh | Richmond | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Virginia Ham |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, the North Carolina BBQ stands as a testament to the city's love for smoked meat, with The Pit Authentic Barbecue leading the charge as a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts. On the other hand, Richmond’s culinary scene shines with Virginia Ham and an array of comfort foods, with Mama J's Kitchen offering some of the best fried chicken in the city. Each city boasts a vibrant food truck scene, with Richmond slightly edging out Raleigh in terms of variety. For those with a plant-based diet, both cities offer a range of vegan options, though Richmond is noted for its slightly more vegan-friendly atmosphere. Whether it’s enjoying a BBQ Jackfruit in Raleigh’s Warehouse District or a fresh Quinoa Salad on Richmond’s Carytown, you’ll find each city has its unique flavor to delight your taste buds.
Raleigh vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in food is essential when making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart aims to bridge Raleigh, NC, and Richmond, VA, guiding you towards your new favorite dining spots by leveraging the familiarity of establishments from your current hometown. Discover where to indulge in exquisite meals, savor casual bites, and enjoy the unique culinary scene your new city offers.
| Raleigh | Richmond | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Death & Taxes | L'Opossum | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on unique, innovative dishes. |
| Poole's Diner | Heritage | Casual yet sophisticated dining atmosphere with a strong emphasis on reimagined American classics. |
| Bida Manda | Sabai | A vibrant spot capturing the essence of Thai and Laotian cuisine with an engaging atmosphere. |
| Brewery Bhavana | The Answer Brewpub | Combines craft beer with an eclectic menu in a community-focused setting. |
| Garland | Peter Chang | Both celebrate Asian fusion dishes, offering complex flavors and a memorable dining experience. |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Mama J's | Find comfort in Southern classics that promise to remind you of home with every bite. |
| La Farm Bakery | Sub Rosa Bakery | Artisanal breads and pastries made with local ingredients underscore these bakeries' similarities. |
| The Pit | Alamo BBQ | Both are celebrated for their authentic barbecue dishes, offering smoky flavors rooted in tradition. |
| Stanbury | Lemaire | Fine dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, crafting a memorable gastronomic adventure. |
| Angus Barn | Buckhead's | Both provide an elegant steakhouse experience, specializing in high-quality meats and a notable wine selection. |
As you make the transition from Raleigh to Richmond, culinary adventures await at every corner. For instance, L'Opossum and Death & Taxes share a penchant for crafting unique, upscale dishes that push the boundaries of traditional dining. Both cities cherish their local ingredients, evident in establishments like La Farm Bakery and Sub Rosa Bakery, where the emphasis on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients is palpable. Meanwhile, the BBQ aficionados moving from Raleigh's The Pit to Richmond's Alamo BBQ will find comforting familiarity in the slow-cooked, deeply flavored meats that both spots pride themselves on. This table is more than a guide; it's your culinary bridge to making Richmond feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts the decision-making process when relocating, making it crucial to understand how Raleigh, NC and Richmond, VA fare in this aspect. This comparison aims to shed light on housing costs, architectural styles, and livability between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary, Ranch | Colonial, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, Smart home features | Historic details, Proximity to parks |
While both Raleigh and Richmond offer a variety of housing options, their real estate markets cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Raleigh, with its higher median home prices and rents, leans towards contemporary and ranch-style homes that often highlight open floor plans and smart home features. This city appeals to those seeking a blend of modern living with a slower pace. On the other hand, Richmond's more affordable housing market is rich in historical charm, featuring colonial and Victorian homes. The city scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bustling environment complemented by historic details and green spaces. Notably, Richmond's emphasis on proximity to parks in its real estate listings underscores a community-oriented atmosphere that outdoor enthusiasts will find appealing.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA
1. The Fan: Famed for its high walkability scores, dog-friendly restaurants like City Dogs, and numerous pet boutiques, The Fan ensures your furry friend will be well-catered to.
2. Shockoe Bottom: With access to places like Chimney Park, a dedicated dog park, and a plethora of pet-friendly housing options, Shockoe Bottom offers a bustling, pet-friendly environment.
3. Museum District: Known for its tree-lined, walkable streets, the Museum District combines convenience for you and quality of life for your pets with places like Barky's, a popular pet store.
Raleigh vs. Richmond Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA, it's important to know how the weather compares. Understanding differences in temperature, humidity, and other weather-related factors is crucial in preparing for your new environment.
Raleigh, NC
Richmond, VA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Richmond, VA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Richmond, VA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Richmond, VA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Raleigh and Richmond enjoy similar summer temperatures, Richmond experiences slightly cooler winters with more snowfall—averaging 10 inches annually compared to Raleigh's 6 inches. The slight difference in annual UV index and humidity levels may also impact how you enjoy outdoor activities. Both cities face risks from natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes, making it essential to prepare for these events no matter where you live. Considering air quality and seasonal allergies, Raleigh offers slightly cleaner air, which could be a deciding factor for those sensitive to environmental allergens.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Richmond
When planning your move from Raleigh, NC, to Richmond, VA, understanding how the cost of living and economic factors of Raleigh compare to those of Richmond is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $51,770 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 104.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.80 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 5.30 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Government, Finance, Education |
| Affluence | Comfortably affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
The lower average household income in Richmond compared to Raleigh does not tell the whole story, as the cost of living index significantly favors Richmond at 95, against Raleigh’s 102. This implies that your dollar might stretch further in Richmond, despite the slightly higher state income tax rate. The difference in sales tax rates is notable, with Richmond offering a considerable advantage. Industry-wise, Raleigh leans more towards technology and healthcare, which could explain the higher affluence and lower rates of poverty and homelessness. This economic landscape could influence your decision based on your career path or financial priorities.
Raleigh vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA, it's important to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This quick overview provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Raleigh & Richmond , offering insights into what might feel different or familiar in your new home.
| Raleigh | Richmond | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on urban issues | Progressive, with emphasis on social justice |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population. More Info | Religiously varied, with historical Christian roots. More Info |
In terms of political and religious landscapes, you'll find both Raleigh and Richmond to embody an atmosphere of diversity and progressiveness, albeit with Richmond taking a more pronounced stance on social justice. While Raleigh leans Democratic, Richmond's political makeup is strongly Democratic, which reflects in local policies and the community's priorities. Religious diversity is present in both cities, allowing for a rich tapestry of faith and belief systems that add to the cultural depth of each location. Transitioning between these cities, you'll notice the shared values of inclusivity and community engagement, despite the difference in political leanings.
Raleigh vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA means understanding the differences between the daily commute and traffic scenarios. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Richmond is designed to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your new home, helping you navigate through your day with ease.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but with planning |
When it comes to commuting in Raleigh and Richmond, both cities offer unique challenges and opportunities. In Raleigh, you might find that despite a fairly average commute time, the lower availability of public transit options could make it harder to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. On the other hand, Richmond, with a slightly better score in public transportation and slightly less traffic congestion, presents a somewhat easier city to live in without a car, provided you plan your routes and timing well. This subtle difference can greatly influence your daily life, especially if you're looking to reduce your dependency on driving.
Additional Resources
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