Moving from Oakland to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate 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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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Durham Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#3
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3139436 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#4
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

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 >>

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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
top ranked movers in raleigh 2022 athens moving experts image
#5
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 304+ data points

Oakland, CA
Residential moving, Packing and unpacking service, Dismantling and reassembling service See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT: 3277673 Verify

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 >>

Relocating from Oakland to Durham Neighborhood Guide

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.

OaklandDurham
RockridgeTrinity Park

Historic homes, vibrant community feel

MontclairHope Valley

Lush, green spaces with upscale living

PiedmontOld West Durham

Family-friendly, walkable streets

TemescalNinth Street

Eclectic shops, diverse dining options

Jack London SquareAmerican Tobacco District

Waterfront dining, entertainment

Grand LakeGeer Street

Popular for nightlife, local eateries

West OaklandGolden Belt

Creative spaces, burgeoning arts scene

North OaklandWarehouse District

Urban living, vibrant nightlife

Lake MerrittForest Hills

Serene waterside living, community-focused

Dimond DistrictCleveland-Holloway

Diverse, 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.

Ready to start your move?

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.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oakland to Durham

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 item

Sourdough BreadNorth Carolina BBQ

Most popular meat dish

BBQ RibsPulled Pork

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Truck Burgers

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit 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

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

78

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

97

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.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Oakland to Durham

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.

CommisMateo Bar de Tapas

Both offer intricate dishes in an upscale, yet cozy atmosphere.

ShakewellBar Virgile

Creative cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired eats make both spots stand out.

PizzaioloPizzeria Toro

Wood-fired pizzas and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients connect these two.

Brown Sugar KitchenDame's Chicken & Waffles

Both celebrate soul food with a modern twist and a dedication to comfort.

Mama's Royal CafeElmo's Diner

Each offers a classic diner experience with a locally loved menu and warm atmosphere.

HomeroomMonuts

While Monuts leans towards doughnuts, both share an artisan approach to casual, comforting eats.

Belotti Ristorante E BottegaMother & Sons Trattoria

Authentic Italian dishes crafted with passion and precision define both venues.

Chop BarGeer Street Garden

A relaxed, friendly vibe with a focus on locally sourced ingredients links these spots.

Dragon GateHappy China

Both places are cherished for bringing authentic Asian flavors and dishes to the locals.

Señor SisigCOPA

Embracing 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?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Oakland to Durham

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.

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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Durham

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)

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.

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.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oakland, CA and Durham, NC

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-up

Strongly DemocraticLean Democratic

Local Politics

Much focus on social issues and equityProgressive with an emphasis on education and local development

Religion

Diverse: 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.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Durham

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.

OaklandDurham
3422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

83

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, but challenging in some areasDifficult without one

Can you get by without car?

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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