Best Philadelphia to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 403 mile move from Pennsylvania to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 52 Philadelphia to Durham 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 Philadelphia compared to Durham. 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 Philadelphia to Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pineapple Movers | 9.44 | 9.62 | 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 | banning moving | 9.20 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Philadelphia to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 403 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Durham, NC will cost on average $1,805 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Durham move is roughly $4,320. 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 | $1,216 | 300 ft³ | 4.05 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,805 | 450 ft³ | 4.01 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,977 | 750 ft³ | 3.97 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,320 | 1100 ft³ | 3.93 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,215 | 1600 ft³ | 3.88 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,915 | 1800 ft³ | 3.84 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Philadelphia guide.
Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
EverSafe Moving Co.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261303 / 771755 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2021) |
Pineapple Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579435 / 1208543 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (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) |
banning moving
2224 Apple Way
Bensalem, PA, 19020
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3350149 / 1070919 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,675 (2022) |
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.
Philadelphia vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to a city unknown to you. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. By comparing local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Durham, NC , we aim to match you with a community that feels like home. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, peaceful parks, or historic charm, this comparison will help you find your perfect neighborhood match.
| Philadelphia | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | Treyburn | Upscale, historic surroundings |
| Fishtown | Old North Durham | Artistic community, vibrant nightlife |
| Manayunk | Trinity Park | Charming homes, close-knit community |
| Northern Liberties | Warehouse District | Trendy, artsy vibe |
| West Philadelphia | Hope Valley | Diverse, with historic homes |
| Center City | Downtown Durham | Urban living, active nightlife |
| Queen Village | Woodcroft | Family-friendly, established neighborhood |
| East Passyunk | Ninth Street | Eclectic eateries, unique shops |
| Society Hill | Forest Hills | Prestigious, historic estates |
| South Philadelphia | Brightleaf | Diverse community, rich history |
If you're fond of Rittenhouse Square’s upscale and historic vibe, you'll find a similar ambiance in Treyburn, known for its prestigious properties and golf course. Lovers of Fishtown's artistic community and vibrant nightlife will feel right at home in Old North Durham, where art and music thrive. For those enchanted by Manayunk's charming homes and close-knit community, Trinity Park offers a similar allure with its historic architecture and friendly atmosphere. Furthermore, East Passyunk's eclectic eateries and unique shops have a counterpart in Ninth Street, Durham, where dining and shopping options abound, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. This side-by-side comparison aims to not just match you with a new neighborhood but also to help you discover the vibrant communities and local treasures that Durham has to offer, making your transition as seamless as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Durham
Moving from one city to another offers a unique set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the difficult and favorable aspects of relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Durham, NC. These charts are designed to help you weigh the pros and cons, ensuring a well-informed decision about your move.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher crime rate
- Colder winters
- Costly living
- Dense traffic
- Less green space
Durham, NC- Lower crime rate
- Milder winters
- More affordable
- Lighter traffic
- More parks
Durham, NC- Smaller historical scene
- Quieter nightlife
- Fewer dining options
- Smaller job market
- Less varied entertainment
Philadelphia, PA- Rich history
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse food scene
- More job opportunities
- Broad entertainment
In Philadelphia, neighborhoods like Fishtown and Old City are bursting with history, offering an array of vibrant restaurants and nightlife. Historic sites such as the Independence National Historical Park draw visitors and locals alike. In comparison, Durham, with its rich academic and research environment, boasts an expanding food scene at places like Durham Performing Arts Center and the Durham Central Park. Though it may offer fewer dining and entertainment options than Philadelphia, Durham presents a growing market with a tight-knit community feel, highlighted by events at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and the Carolina Theatre. Each city has its unique charm, whether it's the historical significance of Philadelphia or the quieter, community-focused lifestyle of Durham.
Philadelphia vs. Durham Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in showcasing the local culture and lifestyle of any area. To help you understand what culinary delights await, we have curated a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Durham . This will give you a glimpse into the food scene of your new city and help make your transition smoother.
| Philadelphia | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheesesteak | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Eastern Carolina BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Soft Pretzel | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Steak | Jackfruit BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Philadelphia and Durham both boast vibrant food scenes reflective of their unique cultures. In Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market offers a cornucopia of local flavors, from the classic cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks to innovative Israeli cuisine at Zahav. Durham, on the other hand, takes pride in its Southern cooking traditions, with establishments like Dame's Chicken & Waffles providing a twist on comfort food, and Pizzeria Toro highlighting the influence of Italian cuisine. Both cities score high in terms of vegan options, with Philadelphia’s seitan steak and Durham’s jackfruit BBQ leading the plant-based charge. Durham edges slightly ahead in terms of health consciousness and food trucks, promising an eclectic and accessible food scene for newcomers.
Philadelphia vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding new favorite dining spots is essential to making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Philadelphia, PA, and Durham, NC , will guide you in discovering your next beloved eateries, using your current local favorites as a starting point.
| Philadelphia | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Spanish cuisine with an inventive twist, reminiscent of Zahav’s approach to Middle Eastern flavors. |
| Vetri Cucina | M Sushi | Offering a high-end dining experience, parallels Vetri Cucina's emphasis on exceptional ingredients and craftsmanship. |
| Reading Terminal Market | Durham Food Hall | A diverse selection of quality vendors, echoing the iconic variety found at Reading Terminal Market. |
| Franklin Fountain | The Parlour | Crafted ice creams that pay homage to the old-fashioned charm and uniqueness of Franklin Fountain. |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Bull City Burger and Brewery | Though known for burgers, they capture the casual, iconic allure similar to Pat's. |
| Federal Donuts | Monuts | Unique donuts and coffee setup that reflects Federal Donuts' distinctive flair and dedication to quality. |
| El Vez | Bar Virgile | Bar Virgile offers a diverse menu with a touch of creativity akin to El Vez, though with a slightly different culinary focus. |
| Pizzeria Beddia | Pompieri Pizza | A passionate approach to pizza making, similar to Pizzeria Beddia’s renowned craft. |
| La Colombe | Cocoa Cinnamon | Both coffee shops value unique coffee blends and offer a cozy ambiance for coffee enthusiasts. |
| Di Bruno Bros. | Parker and Otis | Specialty food and gift store with a similar emphasis on quality products and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. |
For lovers of unique culinary experiences, transitioning from Philadelphia's diverse food scene to Durham’s vibrant offerings can be a delightful journey. Mateo Bar de Tapas stands as a prime example, echoing Zahav's innovative approach but with a nod to Spanish cuisine, ensuring that the love for flavorful and expertly prepared dishes continues. Meanwhile, La Colombe fans will find solace in Cocoa Cinnamon's unique coffee offerings and inviting atmosphere, proving that great coffee is universal. The transition from the iconic Reading Terminal Market to the Durham Food Hall will satisfy your craving for diverse culinary exploration within a bustling marketplace environment. These comparative insights aim to smooth your transition by keeping beloved food experiences at the heart of your new adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape between your current city and future home is crucial. This comparison focuses on Philadelphia and Durham, highlighting key differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make your decision easier.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Row Homes, Victorian | Ranch, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, Proximity to restaurants | Spacious yards, Proximity to parks |
In analyzing the real estate markets of Philadelphia and Durham, one of the standout differences is in the median home prices and monthly rents, both of which lean higher in Durham. This may initially suggest a higher cost of living in Durham, but it's also reflective of a burgeoning market that offers modern living spaces, often accompanied by spacious yards. On the other hand, Philadelphia's historic charm is reflected in its typical row homes and Victorian architecture, appealing to those who value historic details and proximity to urban conveniences like restaurants and cultural venues. Additionally, Philadelphia scores higher in walkability, indicating that residents may rely less on a vehicle for daily errands compared to those in Durham.
Philadelphia vs. Durham Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another involves many changes, and understanding how the weather will differ is crucial. This comparison will highlight the key weather differences between Philadelphia, PA, and Durham, NC, giving you a better expectation of your new climate.
Philadelphia, PA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Flooding | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Upon moving from Philadelphia to Durham, you'll notice slight but significant differences in weather patterns. Durham enjoys a warmer winter with higher average high temperatures, making it ideal for those looking to escape the bitter cold. However, it's also more prone to hurricanes and tornadoes, a key consideration for your emergency preparedness plans. Additionally, while both cities struggle with pollen and mold allergens, Durham's slightly higher UV index may require a step up in your sun protection routine. Understanding these differences can help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Durham
When planning a move from one city to another, appreciating the financial landscape becomes crucial. By comparing Philadelphia, PA and Durham, NC, this guide aims to provide a clearer view on how your expenses and economic environment might shift. Understanding these financial aspects is key to a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.84 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Professional Services | Education, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | Varied | Comfortable |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lower |
Moving from Philadelphia to Durham might bring financial relief in several areas, notably in the cost of living and property taxes, which are lower in Durham. However, state income tax is higher in North Carolina, something to consider when budgeting for your move. The shift in the top industries between the cities highlights Durham's growing technology sector, which could be beneficial if you're in this field. While both cities offer a rich cultural experience, Durham tends to have a more comfortable affluence level with lower rates of poverty and homelessness, indicating a potentially higher quality of life.
Philadelphia vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
In this quick glimpse, we aim to provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in the comparison between Philadelphia & Durham . Understanding the local cultural landscape can greatly impact your experience and integration into your new city.
| Philadelphia | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Philadelphia Government | City of Durham Government |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian majority | Diverse, with a strong presence of Christian and non-religious communities |
Both Philadelphia and Durham share a liberal/democratic political tendency, which may make the transition smoother if you share similar views. The local politics of each city have their own nuances and ways of engaging with the community, as reflected by their respective government websites. When it comes to religion, both cities boast diverse spiritual communities, though Philadelphia has a more significant Christian majority. In Durham, you'll also find a vibrant mix, including a considerable number of non-religious individuals, pointing towards an open and accepting culture.
Philadelphia vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Durham, NC, it's crucial to understand how traffic and transportation differ between these two cities. This comparison will give you a better grasp of what to expect in your daily commutes and traffic scenarios in both locations.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging but possible |
In Philadelphia, you'll find a more developed public transit system, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. The SEPTA Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority offers extensive subway, bus, and regional rail options. On the other hand, Durham’s public transit, while still accessible, is not as comprehensive. It comprises mainly buses operated by GoTriangle, making certain areas harder to access without personal transportation. Although traffic congestion is less of a headache in Durham compared to Philadelphia, planning your daily travel in Durham without a car requires more effort and reliance on less frequent public transportation schedules.
Additional Resources
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