Best Pittsburgh to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 476 mile move from Pennsylvania to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Pittsburgh to Durham 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Durham Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Meta Movers | 9.11 | 9.43 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.80 | 8.2 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 476 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Durham, NC will cost on average $1,858 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Durham move is roughly $4,449. 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 | $1,251 | 300 ft³ | 4.17 |
1 Bedroom | $1,858 | 450 ft³ | 4.13 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,065 | 750 ft³ | 4.09 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,449 | 1100 ft³ | 4.04 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,403 | 1600 ft³ | 4.00 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,126 | 1800 ft³ | 3.96 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Pittsburgh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |

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

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
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) |

Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |

Two Men and a Truck
3555 Valley Dr
Pittsburgh, PA, 15234
About Two Men and a Truck
With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1321899 / 509618 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
Registered Drivers | 15 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 260,000 (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.
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move can feel like navigating through uncharted waters. Our guide is designed to bridge the gap by making a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & Durham, NC , helping you find familiar ground in a new city. Discover which neighborhoods mirror your current surroundings in ambiance, community vibe, and lifestyle options.
Pittsburgh | Durham | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Shadyside | Trinity Park | Historical ambiance, vibrant community events |
Squirrel Hill | Hope Valley | Family-friendly, diverse dining options |
Lawrenceville | Central Park | Arts scene, unique eateries and breweries |
East Liberty | Warehouse District | Revitalized, tech hub with startups |
South Side | 9th Street | Nightlife, eclectic shops |
Bloomfield | Brightleaf | Cozy, walkable with local boutiques |
Point Breeze | Woodcroft | Quiet, green spaces, family-oriented |
Oakland | Duke Park | Educational institutions, lush parks |
Highland Park | Forest Hills | Historic homes, vast parkland |
Mt. Washington | Southpoint | Picturesque views, leisure activities |
For those who adore the historic charm and bustling streets of Shadyside in Pittsburgh, Trinity Park in Durham offers a similar allure with its rich history and dynamic community events. If the artistic vitality and trendy vibe of Lawrenceville are what you love, then Durham's Central Park neighborhood will captivate you with its vibrant arts scene, complete with unique eateries and breweries such as Ponysaurus Brewing Co. or Cocoa Cinnamon for a local coffee fix. Furthermore, if the family-friendly atmosphere and green spaces of Point Breeze hold your heart, Woodcroft's serene parks and community focus are sure to make you feel right at home, offering a similar backdrop for family life and outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Durham
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that requires a balanced view of both challenges and benefits. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Durham, NC . By examining the cons matched with the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from this move.
- Colder winters
- Higher city taxes
- Less tech job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Milder winters
- Lower city taxes
- More tech job opportunities
- Larger cultural scene
- Less historical sites
- Higher housing costs
- Limited public transit
- Less sports culture
- Richer history
- More affordable housing
- Extensive public transit
- Strong sports culture
Choosing between Pittsburgh and Durham isn't just about weighing the tangible pros and cons—it's also about lifestyle and opportunities. For instance, while Durham's milder winters can be a significant lure, especially for those tired of Pittsburgh's chill, it's essential to consider the cultural adjustment. Durham boasts a vibrant cultural scene that spans from the bustling American Tobacco Historic District to the serene nature trails of Eno River State Park. For tech professionals or those aspiring to enter the field, Durham, part of the Research Triangle, provides ample opportunity. However, it's worth noting that housing costs can be higher, so it's crucial to explore neighborhoods like Southpoint and Brightleaf, where you can find a balance between affordability and quality of life. Whether it's enjoying a game at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park or a picnic at Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Durham offers a blend of modern amenities within lush, green landscapes.
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Food Guide
When contemplating a move, the local cuisine plays a significant role in understanding the cultural landscape of your new home. This is why we have prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh, PA & Durham, NC to help you better appreciate the culinary scene awaiting you.
Pittsburgh | Durham | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Primanti Bros. Sandwich | Carolina-style BBQ |
Most popular meat dish | Pierogies | Pulled Pork |
Most popular street food item | Haluski | Food truck tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Pierogies | BBQ jackfruit |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Pittsburgh and Durham, the local cuisines tell a story of tradition, innovation, and community. Pittsburgh's affection for pierogies highlights its Eastern European heritage, best experienced in neighborhoods like the Strip District. On the other hand, Durham celebrates the rich flavors of the South with its Carolina-style BBQ, with places like Nana's and Fullsteam Brewery offering a taste of local favorites. Both cities boast a vibrant food scene, with Durham slightly edging out in terms of food trucks and vegan options, reflecting its slightly more health-conscious ethos. Whether you're indulging in a Primanti Bros. Sandwich after a Steelers game or enjoying a pulled pork sandwich in the heart of Durham, you'll find each city's culinary scene an integral part of its charm and appeal.
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
As you set your sights on making Durham, NC your new home, finding culinary gems that offer that sense of familiarity and comfort is key. This food comparison aims to ease your transition, highlighting how Pittsburgh's top restaurants find their match in Durham , ensuring you can quickly discover new favorites in your soon-to-be hometown.
Pittsburgh | Durham | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Primanti Bros. | Bull City Burger and Brewery | Casual, with a unique approach to traditional American fare |
Altius | NanaSteak | High-end dining featuring carefully prepared dishes with an emphasis on steaks |
Pamela's Diner | Elmo's Diner | Iconic, offering a cozy atmosphere with comfort food classics |
Meat & Potatoes | Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Offers a soulful twist on the gastropub concept with its comfort fusion dishes |
Cure | Mateo Bar de Tapas | A focus on sophisticated yet approachable culinary creations with a Spanish twist |
DiAnoia's Eatery | Gocciolina | Italian fare that emphasizes fresh pasta and traditional dishes with a personal touch |
The Modern Cafe | Foster's Market | Casual eat-in and takeout with a diverse and hearty menu |
Umami | M Kokko | Known for its unique take on Asian cuisine, specializing in chicken dishes |
Pusadee’s Garden | Bida Manda | Offers an exotic dining experience with a keen focus on Laotian cuisine |
Tako | COPA | Infuses Cuban flair into each dish, offering a vibrant atmosphere and inventive menu |
Transitioning from Pittsburgh to Durham doesn't mean leaving behind the culinary experiences you've come to love. For instance, while Primanti Bros. is famed for its hearty sandwiches, Bull City Burger and Brewery in Durham satisfies similar cravings with its unique twist on American classics and locally sourced ingredients. Similarly, the high-end dining experience at Altius finds its counterpart in Durham's NanaSteak, where the focus on quality and ambiance parallels that of Pittsburgh's top dining spot. And for those who relish the cozy comfort of Pamela's Diner, Elmo's Diner in Durham offers a nostalgic atmosphere with its comfort-food-driven menu. Through these comparisons, newcomers can explore Durham's rich culinary scene without feeling far from home.

Ready to start your move?
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when planning a move. It's vital to be informed about how Pittsburgh and Durham stack up. This comparison delves into housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more to ease your transition.
Comparison | Pittsburgh | Durham |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Colonial Revival | Ranch and Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, River views | Open floor plans, Large yards |
In deciding between Pittsburgh and Durham, consider nuances beyond just numbers. Pittsburgh's architecture, rich with historical details from its industrial past, contrasts with Durham's preference for open, modern designs. The city's walkability scores suggest that Pittsburgh offers slightly more convenience for pedestrians, but Durham ranks higher in bikeability, appealing to cyclists. Urban lifestyle scores hint at Pittsburgh's dense, lively urban areas, whereas Durham presents a more laid-back city vibe with touches of suburban spaciousness in its popular large yards. These factors together shape the unique living experience in each city beyond the basic cost of living.
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to adapt to new weather patterns. This comparison highlights the weather differences between Pittsburgh, PA, and Durham, NC , providing insights into what you can expect. Understanding these variations will help you prepare better for your new home.
Pittsburgh, PA
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pittsburgh, PA
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Pittsburgh | Durham |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Flooding | Hurricanes, Flooding |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Pittsburgh to Durham, you'll notice significant changes, particularly in winter temperatures and sunshine days. Durham enjoys a warmer climate throughout the year with more days of sunshine, which could be a pleasant change if you're not fond of the cold. However, the higher humidity and UV index in Durham might require adjustments in your daily skincare and hydration habits. While both cities share concerns over pollen and mold allergies, Durham's milder winters and reduced snowfall mean you can spend more time outdoors without bundling up, though it's also more susceptible to hurricanes.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Durham
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances might change is crucial. This comparison will highlight the differences in costs and economic factors between Pittsburgh, PA, and Durham, NC , helping you prepare for your transition.
Comparison | Pittsburgh | Durham |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $57,821 | $71,343 |
Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 96.6 |
State Income Tax | 3.07 | 5.25 |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.07 | 0.84 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 7.5 |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Education, Healthcare, Technology |
Affluence | Moderate | Reasonably affluent |
Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
Homelessness | Concerning | Less concerning |
In contemplating your move from Pittsburgh to Durham, it's essential to recognize that Durham tends to be slightly more expensive in terms of living costs but also generally offers higher average household incomes. The cost of living index in Durham is slightly higher than in Pittsburgh, indicating that your day-to-day expenses might be a bit more. Notably, state income tax is higher in North Carolina, which could impact your net income. However, Durham enjoys a lower average property tax rate, which could be beneficial if you're planning to buy a house. The shared prominence of Healthcare, Education, and Technology sectors in both cities suggests potential for career opportunities or stability in these fields. Additionally, the lower levels of poverty and homelessness in Durham could indicate a better quality of life for its residents.
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider your move from Pittsburgh, PA to Durham, NC, gaining a quick snapshot of the communities you’ll be entering is essential. This comparison provides a concise overview of the political and religious makeup, giving you a sense of what to expect in your new home. This is a comparison of the politics between Pittsburgh & Durham alongside a look at their religious landscapes.
Pittsburgh | Durham | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Democratic leaning | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Moderately progressive policies | Highly progressive policies |
Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Diverse, notable for its historical black churches and a growing non-religious population |
In both cities, you'll find a Democratic lean, though Durham exhibits a more pronounced progressive stance in local politics and social issues than Pittsburgh. This could impact your experience with local policies, community programs, and social atmospheres. The religious landscapes offer a blend of traditions, with Pittsburgh home to a significant Catholic community and Durham recognizing its rich heritage through historical black churches. Moreover, Durham is experiencing a shift towards a more non-religious demographic, indicating a diversification of beliefs that might inform community events and local norms. As you make this transition, understanding these dynamics will help in adjusting to and embracing your new community.
Pittsburgh vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making the move from Pittsburgh, PA to Durham, NC requires adjusting to new daily routines, especially when it comes to your commute. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Durham will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like in your new city.
Comparison | Pittsburgh | Durham |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26.3 | 22.1 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | It's challenging | Difficult |
In terms of public transportation, Pittsburgh has a more robust system than Durham, scoring higher in availability. Pittsburgh’s Port Authority provides extensive bus and light rail services, making it somewhat feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. On the other hand, Durham, while it has public buses under GoDurham, offers fewer routes and frequency, which means having a car is almost essential for timely and efficient travel throughout the city. Average commute times are shorter in Durham, thanks to less traffic congestion, but the lower public transportation scores indicate a higher reliance on personal vehicles for getting around.



Additional Resources
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Popular Pittsburgh to North Carolina Routes
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