Best Seattle to Cary Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Seattle to Cary and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,866 mile move from Washington to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 43 Seattle to Cary 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle compared to Cary. 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 Seattle to Cary Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
2Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
3Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
4John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
5People Movers9.169.54Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Seattle to Cary

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,866 miles from Seattle, WA to Cary, NC will cost on average $4,218 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Cary move is roughly $10,202. 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$2,827300 ft³9.42
1 Bedroom$4,218450 ft³9.37
2 Bedrooms$6,993750 ft³9.32
3 Bedrooms$10,2021100 ft³9.27
4 Bedrooms$14,7591600 ft³9.22
5+ Bedrooms$16,5141800 ft³9.17
*Please note: These Washington to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & North Carolina. 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 WA to NC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Cary to Seattle guide.

Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Cary Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (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.

Seattle vs. Cary Neighborhood Comparison

When moving to a new city, it can be comforting to find a community reminiscent of home. This guide is designed to compare local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Cary, NC , helping you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by utilizing what you already know. Discover which neighborhoods in Cary mirror the essence of your favorite spots in Seattle.

SeattleCaryHow They're Similar
Capitol HillDowntown CaryVibrant cultural scene
BallardPrestonFamily-friendly with a historic touch
Queen AnneRegencyQuiet, upscale living
FremontAmberlyCreatively spirited, community-centric
GreenwoodLochmereSerene, with lush green spaces
West SeattleMacGregor DownsSecluded, scenic waterfront
Beacon HillCarpenter VillageDiverse, with a slice of history
University DistrictWellsleyYouthful vibe with educational focus
South Lake UnionWeston PointeBooming tech hub
Phinney RidgeHighcroftQuiet neighborhoods, close-knit community

In comparing these neighborhoods, you might find that the lively arts scene of Capitol Hill finds its echo in Downtown Cary, where annual festivals and local eateries like Ashworth Drugs offer a slice of cultural vibrancy. For those drawn to the historic maritime charm of Ballard, Preston's well-preserved neighborhoods and family-oriented atmosphere present a similar allure, with spots like Prestonwood Country Club adding a touch of elegance. Meanwhile, tech professionals transitioning from South Lake Union's booming industry might be pleasantly surprised by Weston Pointe's burgeoning tech presence, proving that Cary provides a varied mosaic of communities where anyone can feel at home, mirroring the diverse spectrum of Seattle's neighborhoods.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Cary

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Cary, NC. By examining the cons compared to the pros and vice versa, you can make a well-informed decision tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Traffic congestion
  • Fewer sunshine days
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder seasons
  • Less traffic
  • More sunny days
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Smaller tech community
  • Less diverse options
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Less coffee variety
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Abundant nature
  • Strong coffee culture

Relocating from Seattle to Cary presents an opportunity to enjoy a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing the quality of living. Cary's housing market is notably more accessible, allowing for a comfortable standard of life. The city experiences milder seasons, providing a nice break from Seattle's frequent rains and fewer sunny days. Though Cary might offer fewer options in terms of a vibrant tech scene and cultural diversity, it compensates with a peaceful community vibe and less traffic congestion. You might miss the abundant nature and outdoor activities that Seattle boasts, including spots like Discovery Park, but Cary has its charm with beautiful parks such as Fred G. Bond Metro Park. While the coffee culture in Cary might not be as robust as Seattle's, local favorites like Fount Coffee + Kitchen offer a cozy alternative for your caffeine fix. This shift presents a blend of new opportunities while embracing the essence of what made Seattle a cherished home.

Seattle vs. Cary Food Guide

When relocating, the essence of local culture and daily life is echoed through its food. This comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle, WA & Cary, NC provides insight into the distinct flavors and dining experiences you'll encounter, helping you anticipate the culinary adventure ahead.

SeattleCary
Most iconic local food itemSalmonNorth Carolina Barbecue
Most popular meat dishGrilled SalmonPulled Pork
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan PhoVegan Barbecue
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • The Pink Door
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • La Farm Bakery
  • Cary Cafe
  • Sri Meenakshi Bhavan
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Seattle's culinary scene is renowned for its vibrant seafood offerings, notably salmon, which can be enjoyed in classic establishments like Canlis. The city's food truck culture and vegan options are thriving, exemplified by inventive vegan pho found in spots across the Capitol Hill area. On the flip side, Cary's heart beats with traditional North Carolina barbecue, including mouth-watering pulled pork at local havens like Cary Cafe. The burgeoning foodie scene in Cary also opens doors to international cuisines, with La Farm Bakery bringing a taste of France and Sri Meenakshi Bhavan showcasing flavors from South India. Both cities offer an enriching dining landscape ready to indulge your senses.

Seattle vs. Cary Restaurant Comparison

When settling into a new city, discovering local dining favorites is key to feeling at home. This comparison chart from Seattle, WA, to Cary, NC, restaurants will guide you to find similar tastes and atmospheres in your new locale, ensuring a smoother transition into your new culinary scene.

SeattleCaryWhat You'll Love
CanlisHeronsHigh-end dining and sophisticated atmosphere
Pike Place ChowderLucky 32 Southern KitchenHomely Southern comfort food with a local twist
SalumiLa Farm BakeryArtisanal breads and European-style deli
The Walrus and the CarpenterPostmasterCasual yet innovative dining, focusing on fresh, local ingredients
Taylor Shellfish Oyster BarShuckin' Shack Oyster BarSeafood-centric dining with a focus on oysters
Dick's Drive-InAl's Burger ShackIconic local burgers with a casual, laid-back vibe
MamnoonBosphorusAuthentic Mediterranean flavors in a cozy, inviting space
Serious PieAcademy Street BistroArtisan pizzas with a gourmet twist
RevelSuper WokContemporary Asian cuisine with a focus on fresh, vibrant flavors
Matt's in the MarketPeak City Grill & BarSeasonal ingredients with an inspired culinary approach

In the quest for new dining experiences that reminisce of Seattle's flavors, Cary doesn’t disappoint. If you've ever found joy in the bustling atmosphere and fresh oyster selections of Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar, Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar in Cary offers a similar seafood indulgence tailored to the East Coast palate. Similarly, the transition from the iconic fast-food delight of Dick's Drive-In to Al's Burger Shack highlights how classic American cuisine can find its special twist across the states, preserving the sense of comfort and nostalgia. On the fine dining end, Herons in Cary mirrors the elegance and culinary precision of Seattle's Canlis, offering an exquisite dining experience that rivals its Northwestern counterpart. Each restaurant on this list stands out for bringing a piece of what you loved in Seattle to your new home in Cary, ensuring that the flavors you treasure are never too far away.

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Ready to start your move?

Seattle vs. Cary Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, it's vital to consider real estate dynamics as it significantly influences your living experience. Understanding how Seattle, WA, and Cary, NC, compare in terms of housing will equip you with insights for a better decision. Factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle scores play a crucial role. Here's a detailed comparison to guide your move.

ComparisonSeattleCary
Typical Architecture StyleContemporary, CraftsmanColonial, Transitional
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Eco-friendly featuresFamily-friendly, Safe neighborhoods

In comparing the housing aspects of Seattle, WA, and Cary, NC, you'll notice significant differences that reflect the lifestyle and cost of living in each city. Seattle's higher median home price and rent reflect its status as a bustling urban hub with eco-friendly features and stunning views frequently highlighted in listings. The city's architecture is predominantly contemporary and craftsman, suiting its modern and innovative vibe. On the flip side, Cary offers a more suburban feel with its colonial and transitional architecture, emphasizing family-friendly and safe neighborhoods. The cost of living is notably lower, reflected in both the median home prices and rents. While Seattle boasts higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, making it ideal for those seeking an active city life, Cary's scores suggest a quieter, more spread-out community perfect for families looking for space and tranquility.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Cary, NC

1. Preston: This neighborhood is known for its picturesque walking paths and local parks, perfect for morning walks or jogs with your furry friends.

2. Lochmere: Offering you access to several greenways and the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, it’s a paradise for pets who love outdoor adventures.

3. Carpenter Village: With its close-knit community feel, pet-friendly amenities, and a dedicated dog park, it’s an ideal spot for pet owners looking for a supportive neighborhood environment.

Seattle vs. Cary Weather Considerations

If you're considering a move from Seattle, WA to Cary, NC, understanding the weather differences between these two locations is crucial. This comparison will shed light on what weather changes you can expect, helping ease your transition and setting realistic expectations for your new home environment.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

89°F / 68°F

Cary, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

50°F / 30°F

Cary, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37

Seattle, WA

43

Cary, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Seattle, WA

4

Cary, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleCary
Air QualityGoodGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesHurricanes, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Seattle to Cary, you'll notice significant weather changes, particularly in terms of sunshine and summer temperatures. Cary enjoys more sunny days per year and warmer summers, which can be a delightful change if you prefer brighter, warmer weather. However, prepare for humid summers compared to Seattle's more temperate climate. Another notable difference is the risk of natural disasters, with Cary being more prone to hurricanes and tornadoes, unlike Seattle's seismic activities. Understanding these variances can help you adapt more effectively to your new home in Cary.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Cary

When considering a move, it's critical to weigh the financial implications of your new locale against your current one. Understanding the differences in cost of living, tax rates, and average incomes between Seattle, WA, and Cary, NC, will equip you better for this transition.

ComparisonSeattleCary
Avg. Household Income$110,781$123,857
Cost of Living Index121.495.85
State Income Tax05.25
Avg. Property Tax0.990.84
Avg. Sales Tax10.16.75
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, RetailTechnology, Education, Healthcare
AffluenceHighVery High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighLow

The comparison between Seattle and Cary reveals a notable difference in the cost of living and tax burdens faced by residents. While Seattle boasts a higher average household income, Cary's lower cost of living index makes it a financially attractive option for many. Despite Washington State's lack of income tax, Cary's moderate state income tax is offset by significantly lower sales and property taxes, enhancing the overall affordability. The industries driving each city's economy suggest diverse job opportunities, with technology being a common heavyweight. This data suggests that moving from Seattle to Cary could offer financial benefits, especially when factoring in the lower cost of living and the thriving job markets.

Seattle vs. Cary Political & Religious Comparison

This brief overview provides a quick glance at the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Seattle, WA & Cary, NC, offering insight into the communities you're transitioning between. Knowing the political leanings and religious contexts can help in understanding neighborhood vibes, making social connections, and finding communities that share your values.

SeattleCary
Political Make-upLiberalModerately conservative
Local PoliticsDemocratic dominanceMixed, with Republican leanings
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedGreater religious diversity, Christian majority

In transitioning from Seattle to Cary, you might find distinct differences in the political and religious landscapes. Seattle is known for its progressive values and heavily Democratic leaning, with a population that is less religiously affiliated on average. On the other hand, Cary presents a more politically mixed environment with moderate conservative values and a noticeable Republican presence. The religious makeup in Cary is more diverse, with a larger Christian majority, which could translate to more religious-based community activities and establishments. Understanding these differences will support your integration into Cary's social and community fabric.

Seattle vs. Cary Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When planning a move from Seattle, WA, to Cary, NC, understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between these cities is vital. This will give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic situations might be like, helping with a smoother transition.

ComparisonSeattleCary
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)27.324.4
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Possibly, but challenging in areas without transit serviceChallenging due to limited public transit options

In Seattle, you might find the traffic denser and the average commute time slightly longer compared to Cary. This is reflective of Seattle's larger size and more populous nature. However, Seattle offers decent public transit options with services like the Sound Transit light rail and buses, making it somewhat feasible to get by without a car if you live and work in well-connected areas. On the other hand, Cary's smaller size contributes to its lower traffic congestion. Despite this, Cary's public transit options are not as developed, meaning having a car is more of a necessity to comfortably navigate the town.

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