Best Seattle to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,869 mile move from Washington to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Seattle to Raleigh 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 Raleigh. 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 Seattle to Raleigh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | 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 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Raleigh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,869 miles from Seattle, WA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $4,221 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Raleigh move is roughly $10,208. 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 | $2,829 | 300 ft³ | 9.43 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,221 | 450 ft³ | 9.38 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,998 | 750 ft³ | 9.33 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,208 | 1100 ft³ | 9.28 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,768 | 1600 ft³ | 9.23 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,524 | 1800 ft³ | 9.18 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Raleigh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (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
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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
People Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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.
Seattle vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that will compare the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Raleigh, NC . This comparison is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in Raleigh that feels like home, using your knowledge of Seattle's popular areas.
| Seattle | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Ballard | Oakwood | Historic charm, vibrant food scene |
| Capitol Hill | Glenwood South | Nightlife, diverse dining |
| Queen Anne | Cameron Village | Quiet, family-friendly, shopping options |
| Greenwood | North Hills | Community feel, shopping, and dining |
| Fremont | Warehouse District | Artsy, eclectic vibe |
| South Lake Union | Downtown Raleigh | Tech hub, modern living |
| West Seattle | Five Points | Residential, local businesses |
| Beacon Hill | Boylan Heights | Historic homes, community-centric |
| Wallingford | Hillsborough | Family-friendly, historic vibe |
| Georgetown | Mordecai | Industrial history, unique spots |
For those accustomed to the buzzing nightlife and diverse culinary scene of Capitol Hill, Raleigh's Glenwood South will make you feel right at home with its lively bars and wide range of restaurants. On the other hand, if the historic charm and tight-knit community of Ballard captures your heart, you'll find a similar spirit in Oakwood, where historic homes line the streets and local eateries like Oakwood Pizza Box serve up neighborhood favorites. For those drawn to the artsy and eclectic atmosphere of Fremont, the Warehouse District in Raleigh offers an array of local art galleries, such as CAM Raleigh, and unique dining experiences, ensuring the creative spirit feels right at home. Whether you're looking for a place with a tech vibe similar to South Lake Union or the residential, community feel of West Seattle, Raleigh has neighborhoods that mirror these environments, providing both modern living spaces and areas rich with local businesses and community events.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Raleigh
Moving can be an overwhelming experience, particularly when it involves relocating across the country. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of both the positive and negative aspects of moving from Seattle, WA, to Raleigh, NC, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. By examining the cons and pros through detailed charts, this guide seeks to provide a balanced view of what to expect before making the big move.
Seattle, WA- High Cost of Living
- Frequent Rain
- Traffic Congestion
- Less Southern Charm
Raleigh, NC- Lower Cost of Living
- Milder Winters
- Less Traffic
- Rich Southern Culture
Raleigh, NC- Fewer Tech Jobs
- Lesser Green Spaces
- Lesser Coffee Variety
Seattle, WA- Vibrant Tech Scene
- Abundant Nature
- Rich Coffee Culture
- Progressive Community
Moving from the bustling, rain-soaked streets of Seattle to Raleigh’s warm, inviting atmosphere brings significant changes, from climatic adjustments to varied cultural exposures. Seattle's affluent nature and tech-driven economy contrast with Raleigh's burgeoning tech scene and its embrace of rich historical and cultural roots. Raleigh boasts attractions like the renowned North Carolina Museum of History and the lush spaces of Umstead State Park, offering unique outdoor and educational experiences compared to Seattle's tech-centric and caffeinated environment. Whether savoring Raleigh’s Southern charm and slow pace of life or navigating its smaller yet growing tech landscape, the transition promises a blend of new opportunities amidst a backdrop of cultural and environmental shifts.
Seattle vs. Raleigh Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Raleigh, illustrating how food is an essential part of local culture and living experiences. If you're moving, being informed about the food scene is crucial for immersing yourself into your new surroundings.
| Seattle | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Barbecue pork |
| Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | Pulled pork |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Food Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Pho | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Seattle and Raleigh offer distinct culinary experiences reflective of their cultural landscapes. In Seattle, seafood, especially salmon, is iconic, and you can find exquisite dishes at places like Matt's in the Market overlooking the historic Pike Place Market. Teriyaki and vegan options, such as pho, are abundant, catering to a diverse palette. Raleigh, on the other hand, is famous for its barbecue pork, found in renowned spots like The Pit. The city’s food truck scene offers an adventurous street food experience, with BBQ jackfruit standing out as a popular vegan option. Raleigh’s appreciation for local cuisine is evident in its bustling foodie scene, making it an exciting place for new residents to explore.
Seattle vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
As you embark on a new journey from Seattle to Raleigh, finding comfort in familiar tastes is key to settling into your new home. This restaurant comparison between Seattle and Raleigh is designed to help bridge the gap between the familiar and the new, guiding you to find your next favorite dining spots. Let the exploration of flavors begin!
| Seattle | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Second Empire | Classic elegance and a similar commitment to fine dining excellence |
| The Pink Door | Gravy | Italian-American cuisine with a charming atmosphere that echoes the uniqueness of The Pink Door |
| Pike Place Chowder | 42nd Street Oyster Bar | A go-to for seafood lovers craving that authentic chowder experience |
| Mamnoon | Sitti | Offers a taste of the Middle East with dishes that celebrate traditional flavors and modern twists |
| Revel | Bida Manda | Although focusing on Laotian cuisine, it provides a similar adventurous approach to Asian flavors |
| Skillet Diner | Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Offers comfort food with a unique twist, much like Skillet Diner |
| Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge | Crawford and Son | While more American in focus, it shares Toulouse's attention to detail and cozy, upscale vibe |
| Dahlia Lounge | Death & Taxes | Both are known for their distinctive approach to local cuisine and innovative dishes |
| Salumi | Oakwood Pizza Box | For a taste of artisan cured meats and pizzas that remind one of Salumi’s meticulous craft |
| Altura | Herons | Exquisite dining with a focus on seasonal cuisine, echoing Altura’s luxurious dining experience |
For those who have relished the flavors of Seattle’s diverse dining scene, Raleigh offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights that promise to enthrall your taste buds. Take, for example, the quintessential experience of reveling in Canlis' fine dining elegance which finds a counterpart in Raleigh's Second Empire, where the ambiance and culinary excellence serve as a beacon for food connoisseurs. Or perhaps the unique, invigorating flavors of Mamnoon; Sitti in Raleigh beckons with its authentic and modern twist on Middle Eastern cuisine, providing an exquisite blend of traditional and contemporary dishes that resonate with the essence of Mamnoon. Whether it’s the comforting allure of classic chowder or the adventure of exploring Laotian flavors, Raleigh’s varied menu is poised to usher in a sense of familiarity with a sprinkle of local flavor, making your transition not just about discovering a new city, but also about rediscovering the joy and comfort of well-loved dishes.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a cornerstone in planning a relocation. Understanding how Seattle, WA and Raleigh, NC compare in terms of housing cost, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle helps in making an informed decision. This comparison charts the core components of the housing market in both cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Colonial and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views of Puget Sound, eco-friendly features | Spacious yards, proximity to Research Triangle Park |
While both Seattle and Raleigh offer unique living experiences, the significant difference in median home prices and monthly rent indicates a more affordable housing market in Raleigh. Although Raleigh scores lower in walkability and bikeability, its architecture showcases spacious yards perfect for families. Conversely, Seattle's higher urban lifestyle score is attributed to its modern architecture, eco-friendly homes, and stunning views of Puget Sound. These factors play a vital role in determining the suitability of each city depending on personal preferences and lifestyle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC
1. North Hills: With an abundance of pet-friendly shops and an expansive park, your pet will love the outdoor activities available.
2. Boylan Heights: This neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly community atmosphere and easy access to Dorothea Dix Park, a popular spot for dog walks and community gatherings.
3. Five Points: You and your pet will enjoy walking through the historical streets and visiting local pet-friendly businesses, including several cafes and eateries that welcome furry friends.
Seattle vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Seattle, WA to Raleigh, NC, it's crucial to understand how the weather differs between these two locations. This comparison will help you adjust to your new environment smoothly by highlighting key climatic features.
Seattle, WA
Raleigh, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Raleigh, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities experience a mix of weather conditions, Raleigh offers warmer summers and slightly cooler winters compared to Seattle. The increased number of sunny days per year in Raleigh could be a welcome change for those accustomed to Seattle's frequent cloud cover. Furthermore, Raleigh's higher annual humidity levels might require some time to adjust to, especially during the peak summer months. Another consideration is the different types of natural disasters prevalent in each area, with Raleigh facing a higher risk of hurricanes and tornadoes, as opposed to the earthquakes and volcanoes more common in Seattle's vicinity. These factors are key in planning your move, suggesting a need for different preparations in terms of clothing, home maintenance, and even emergency planning.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Raleigh
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and economic conditions in Seattle stack up against those in Raleigh. This comparison will provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Seattle | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $74,612 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 98.2 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.84 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, E-commerce, Aerospace | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
The transition from Seattle to Raleigh involves significant adjustments in financial planning due to distinct differences in the cost of living, taxation, and economic environments between the two cities. Raleigh presents a less expensive living situation, as indicated by its lower cost of living index and average sales tax. However, unlike Seattle, Raleigh has a state income tax. The top industries also shift from a heavy focus on technology and e-commerce in Seattle to a blend of technology, education, and healthcare in Raleigh. Understanding these nuances will be key in managing your finances more effectively in your new home.
Seattle vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Seattle, WA to Raleigh, NC requires understanding the communities you’re transitioning between. This quick-glance comparison gives you an insight into the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, helping you gauge the cultural atmosphere you're moving from and into.
| Seattle | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Lean Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Moderate with some conservative leanings |
| Religion | Less Religiously Affiliated | Higher Religious Affiliation |
Seattle is known for its liberal stance and progressive policies, reflecting a community that values diverse perspectives and inclusivity. In contrast, Raleigh has a more moderate to conservative leaning, though it's known for its welcoming nature regardless of one's political beliefs. When it comes to religion, Seattle's residents tend to be less religiously affiliated, embracing a wide array of spiritual and secular beliefs. Raleigh, influenced by its southern roots, has a higher percentage of residents identifying with a religious community, with local churches and religious institutions playing a central role in community life. Whether you're moving for new opportunities or seeking a change in scenery, understanding these aspects can help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.
Seattle vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can bring about significant lifestyle changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison is intended to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Seattle & Raleigh, from average commute times to the viability of living without a car. Discover the key differences to prepare for your move.
| Comparison | Seattle | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
In Seattle, the average commute time might only be slightly longer than in Raleigh, but it's the traffic congestion and public transit options that mark significant contrasts. Seattle's congestion is notably higher, making public transit or biking more appealing options despite their own challenges. The city's investment in public transit rates it moderately well, supporting a lifestyle that's less dependent on a car. In contrast, Raleigh’s lower traffic congestion score reflects less overall delay, but its limited public transit options mean that having a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your daily life and how you plan your commute in your new city.
Additional Resources
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