Best Oakland to Durham Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Oakland to Durham Movers

Moving from the bustling Bay Area's Oakland to the tranquil, historic streets of Durham presents an unparalleled adventure that marks a significant life change. In leaving behind Oakland's vibrant street art and food scenes, known affectionately as "The Town," you're stepping into Durham's "Bull City," renowned for its booming tech scene and rich cultural heritage. Given the distance and the life shift involved, it’s crucial to ensure you’re assisted by trusted, reliable professional movers, and that’s where we, Great Guys Moving, come into the picture, using our unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best moving services for this exciting transition.

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Best Oakland to Durham Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Rock 'n Roll Moving9.03NRActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Durham Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

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
4
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 304+ data points

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Packing and unpacking service
  • Dismantling and reassembling service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277673 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
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.

Oakland vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world. To ease this transition, understanding your new environment through the neighborhoods you know can be incredibly helpful. This guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Durham, NC . Discover which areas in Durham mirror those you love in Oakland, making your move a little less daunting.

OaklandDurhamHow They're Similar
RockridgeTrinity ParkHistoric homes, vibrant community feel
MontclairHope ValleyLush, green spaces with upscale living
PiedmontOld West DurhamFamily-friendly, walkable streets
TemescalNinth StreetEclectic shops, diverse dining options
Jack London SquareAmerican Tobacco DistrictWaterfront dining, entertainment
Grand LakeGeer StreetPopular for nightlife, local eateries
West OaklandGolden BeltCreative spaces, burgeoning arts scene
North OaklandWarehouse DistrictUrban living, vibrant nightlife
Lake MerrittForest HillsSerene waterside living, community-focused
Dimond DistrictCleveland-HollowayDiverse, with historic charm

For instance, if Rockridge's lively streets lined with boutique shops and gourmet restaurants have won your heart in Oakland, you'll find a similar vibrance in Durham's Trinity Park. This neighborhood not only revels in historic architectural beauty but also offers a strong sense of community.The American Tobacco District in Durham, with its unique blend of historical buildings and modern amenities, mirrors the waterfront charm and bustling atmosphere of Jack London Square. It's perfect for those who enjoy dining alfresco or attending events right by the water. And if the eclectic and foodie-loved Temescal has been your go-to, Ninth Street's variety of eateries and indie shops in Durham will feel like home. From the artisan coffee shops like Cocoa Cinnamon to local bookstores, there's an undeniable charm waiting for you.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Durham

Moving across the country comes with its share of challenges and advantages. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of Oakland, CA, and Durham, NC, highlighting what changes you might expect. Whether it's the cost of living, culture, or climate, understanding the pros and cons can ease the transition and set realistic expectations for your new home in Durham.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Traffic congestion
  • Denser population
  • Variable climate
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic
  • More space
  • Milder climate
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer art venues
  • Less variety in dining
  • Smaller job market
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Cultural diversity
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Major tech hub

Moving from Oakland to Durham, you are transitioning from a bustling city recognized for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene to a smaller, but growing community with a strong sense of local identity. While you might miss the unmatched variety of dining options in Oakland, like the famous ShakeWell or the authentic flavors of Cholita Linda, Durham offers its own culinary gems such as Pompieri Pizza and the homestyle cooking of Dame's Chicken & Waffles. Despite having fewer art venues than Oakland, Durham boasts unique cultural sites like the Carolina Theatre and hosts vibrant community events that reflect its rich history and growing diversity. This shift to Durham, although marked by some trade-offs, presents an exciting chance to embrace new experiences in a city that prides itself on a strong sense of community and a slower, more laid-back lifestyle.

Oakland vs. Durham Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and the lifestyle of an area you're moving to. This guide aims to ease your transition by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Durham so you can savor the flavors of your new home.

OaklandDurham
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadNorth Carolina BBQ
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsPulled Pork
Most popular street food itemTacosFood Truck Burgers
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosBBQ Tempeh
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Chez Panisse
  • ShakeWell
  • Commis
  • Nana's Restaurant
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from Oakland to Durham, you'll notice distinct shifts in the local cuisine. While Oakland's food scene is renowned for its innovative vegan dishes and iconic sourdough bread, Durham proudly showcases its mastery of traditional North Carolina BBQ, particularly its pulled pork. Food trucks play a significant role in both cities, though Durham slightly edges out with its array of food truck burgers. For those looking to dine out, Oakland offers gems like Chez Panisse for a taste of culinary history, while Durham's Nana's Restaurant provides a quintessential Southern dining experience. Both cities cater well to health-conscious individuals, though Oakland slightly leads with its abundant vegan options and overall health conscientiousness.

Oakland vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in turning a new city into home by comforting and familiarizing us with our surroundings. This comparison is designed to help you in your move from Oakland, CA to Durham, NC, by matching your favorite Oakland eateries with Durham's comparable locales, easing the transition and whetting your appetite for new culinary adventures.

OaklandDurhamWhat You'll Love
CommisMateo Bar de TapasBoth offer intricate dishes in an upscale, yet cozy atmosphere.
ShakewellBar VirgileCreative cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired eats make both spots stand out.
PizzaioloPizzeria ToroWood-fired pizzas and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients connect these two.
Brown Sugar KitchenDame's Chicken & WafflesBoth celebrate soul food with a modern twist and a dedication to comfort.
Mama's Royal CafeElmo's DinerEach offers a classic diner experience with a locally loved menu and warm atmosphere.
HomeroomMonutsWhile Monuts leans towards doughnuts, both share an artisan approach to casual, comforting eats.
Belotti Ristorante E BottegaMother & Sons TrattoriaAuthentic Italian dishes crafted with passion and precision define both venues.
Chop BarGeer Street GardenA relaxed, friendly vibe with a focus on locally sourced ingredients links these spots.
Dragon GateHappy ChinaBoth places are cherished for bringing authentic Asian flavors and dishes to the locals.
Señor SisigCOPAEmbracing the fusion of traditional and modern flavors, both serve up a unique culinary experience.

Whether you're reminiscing over the intricate layers of flavors found at Commis with a similar experience awaiting at Mateo Bar de Tapas, or looking for that comforting bite of soul food from Brown Sugar Kitchen reflected in the dishes at Dame's Chicken & Waffles, the journey from Oakland to Durham promises to be a delicious one. Mateo Bar de Tapas is not just about Spanish cuisine; it's an immersive experience that reminds one of the refined yet intimate dining at Commis. Meanwhile, adapting to Durham's culinary scene will be a breeze with Dame's Chicken & Waffles, where the commitment to soul food matches the heart and soul put into every dish at Brown Sugar Kitchen, ensuring your new food journey in Durham feels just like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Oakland vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate can majorly impact your relocation experience. Comparing the housing characteristics of Oakland, CA, and Durham, NC, helps discern vital differences and similarities, streamlining your move. This assessment takes into account cost, architecture, and lifestyle between these two cities.

ComparisonOaklandDurham
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and CraftsmanColonial Revival and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to San Francisco, eco-friendly updatesSpacious yards, family-friendly neighborhoods

Moving from Oakland to Durham introduces a notable shift in housing costs, suggesting a more affordable living situation in Durham. The difference in median home prices and rents highlights Durham's lower cost of living. Architecture in Durham tends towards the Colonial Revival and Ranch styles, offering a distinct aesthetic from Oakland's Victorian and Craftsman homes. Despite a higher urban lifestyle and walkability rating in Oakland, Durham's spacious yards and family-friendly neighborhoods mentioned in real estate listings indicate a strong community-oriented vibe, contrasting greatly with Oakland’s urban proximity and eco-friendly living. This fundamental difference shapes not merely the physical but also the social landscape you'll be moving into.

Oakland vs. Durham Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Oakland, CA, to Durham, NC, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new home compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you prepare better for the seasonal changes, air quality, and average temperatures you'll experience in Oakland and Durham.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23

Oakland, CA

43

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Oakland, CA

6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonOaklandDurham
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHurricanes, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Oakland and Durham enjoy relatively mild winters, Durham experiences more extreme seasons with hotter summers and colder winters. Furthermore, Durham's higher annual rainfall leads to a more humid environment, which can significantly affect daily comfort and outdoor activities. Additionally, the difference in natural disasters, such as Oakland's higher risk of earthquakes and wildfires compared to Durham's hurricanes and tornadoes, highlights the importance of preparing for region-specific hazards. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared to make Durham your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Durham

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between Oakland and Durham, providing you with essential insights for your decision-making process.

ComparisonOaklandDurham
Avg. Household Income$82,236$71,343
Cost of Living Index139.196.6
State Income Tax13.35.25
Avg. Property Tax0.730.84
Avg. Sales Tax9.257.5
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, EducationEducation, Healthcare, Technology
AffluenceModerateEmerging
PovertyNoticeableModerate
HomelessnessSignificantConcerning

The transition from Oakland to Durham presents a considerable shift in financial landscape. While the average household income in Oakland is significantly higher, Durham enjoys a lower cost of living index. This disparity might not only impact your budgeting but also your lifestyle. The state income tax in Oakland is much steeper than in Durham; a factor that could influence your take-home pay. Additionally, while both cities have vibrant sectors in technology and healthcare, the slightly higher property tax in Durham is offset by its lower sales tax. This information illustrates the complex matrix of financial considerations that come into play, emphasizing the importance of understanding these differences.

Oakland vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another brings with it a profound shift in surroundings, community, and lifestyle. Our guide offers a quick look, providing an at-a-glance snapshot to help you compare the political and religious makeup of the residents between Oakland, CA & Durham, NC. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of the communities you're moving from and into.

OaklandDurham
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsMuch focus on social issues and equityProgressive with an emphasis on education and local development
ReligionDiverse: Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, etc.Primarily Christian, with a mix of other faiths

In both Oakland and Durham, a Democratic political lean is evident, but the local political landscape varies, reflecting differing community priorities and challenges. Oakland has a reputation for its activism and social equity initiatives, which are deeply embedded in its local politics. In contrast, Durham places a strong emphasis on education and local development, reflecting its community's focus on progressive growth and inclusivity. Religion in both cities shows diversity, but with Christianity being predominant in Durham. This gives you a glimpse into the social fabric you're moving into, enabling a smoother transition into your new home.

Oakland vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving across the country comes with its share of changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute. In this guide, we will compare the traffic and transportation options between Oakland, CA & Durham, NC, to better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in these two cities.

ComparisonOaklandDurham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, but challenging in some areasDifficult without one

In Oakland, you'll find that despite higher traffic congestion levels, the comprehensive public transit system, including BART and buses, makes navigating the city without a car feasible, if not always convenient. In contrast, Durham's lower traffic congestion is a plus, but its limited public transit options mean that having a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently. Additionally, the average commute time in Durham is significantly shorter, reflecting the smaller geographic size of the city and potentially a more localized work-life setup compared to the sprawling Bay Area.

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