Best San Diego to Durham Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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San Diego to Durham Movers

Moving from the sun-kissed shores of San Diego, CA, to the vibrant, leafy streets of Durham, NC, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading in the laid-back SoCal lifestyle, affectionately known as "America's Finest City," for Durham's rich history and booming tech scene, sometimes referred to as the "Bull City." Recognizing the challenges of such a long-distance move, we emphasize the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

California iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon

Best San Diego to Durham Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
The Rock Movers9.50NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.47NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.8.95A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to San Diego guide.

5 Best San Diego to Durham Moving Companies

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

The Rock Movers Logo
Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,305+ data points

About The Rock Movers

The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.47/10
based on 477+ data points

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill, the compan...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
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
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 12/17/2024)

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
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo
Superb8.95/10
based on 2,147+ data points

About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...Read More >>

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Moving
  • Storage Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

877737 / 383831

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved8,778 (2022)
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.

San Diego vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when you're navigating the transition between two cities. To ease this journey, we've crafted a comparison highlighting San Diego, CA & Durham, NC's local neighborhoods . This guide aims to help you find a new area in Durham that reminds you of your favorite San Diego neighborhood, making the unknown feel a bit more familiar.

San DiegoDurhamHow They're Similar
La JollaHope ValleyUpscale, family-friendly
Pacific BeachTrinity ParkVibrant, youthful atmosphere
North ParkOld West DurhamArtsy, with local eateries
HillcrestWarehouse DistrictLGBTQ+-friendly, nightlife
Gaslamp QuarterDowntown DurhamHistoric, with bustling nightlife
Ocean BeachBrightleafRelaxed vibe, boutique shopping
Little ItalyNinth StreetEclectic dining, walkable
Carmel ValleyDuke ForestFamily-oriented, green spaces
Del MarTreyburnExclusive, golf community
CoronadoForest HillsHistoric homes, scenic views

If the serene, upscale vibe of La Jolla with its stunning ocean views and high-end dining like George's at the Cove appeals to you, you'll find a similar charm in Hope Valley's spacious properties and local gems such as Foster's Market. On the other hand, North Park's eclectic mix of shops, craft beer bars, and the vibrant arts scene is mirrored in Old West Durham, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and unique local eateries like Elmo's Diner. Meanwhile, the historic architecture and cultural festivals of Gaslamp Quarter find a counterpart in Downtown Durham, where historic buildings house modern lofts, and yearly events bring the community together in celebration.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Durham

Moving across the country is a significant life change that requires careful consideration. This comparison aims to reflect San Diego, CA to Durham, NC relocation honestly, highlighting both the pros and cons to help you make a well-informed decision. Delve into the intricacies of each city to better understand what awaits you.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High living cost
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited seasons
  • Water scarcity
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living cost
  • Less congestion
  • Distinct seasons
  • Greener landscapes
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • No beaches
  • More humidity
  • Smaller food scene
  • Quieter nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beach access
  • Sunny weather
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Vibrant nightlife

In San Diego, the convenience of having beaches like La Jolla Shores and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve just a short drive away is unparalleled, offering not only recreation but also breathtaking sunsets. The city's culinary scene is another highlight, with neighborhoods such as Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, home to renowned establishments like Juniper & Ivy, offering a diverse array of dining options. In contrast, Durham, while lacking in coastal amenities, makes up for it with its lush green spaces like West Point on the Eno and a close-knit community vibe reflected in its local markets and events. The transition might be challenging for beach lovers and those accustomed to San Diego's lively urban atmosphere, but Durham's lower cost of living, growing culinary scene, and distinct seasons present a refreshing change.

San Diego vs. Durham Food Guide

Food greatly reflects the essence of a locale, unveiling much about its culture and lifestyle. When considering a move, understanding the culinary landscape is crucial. In this guide, we embark on a flavorful journey to compare the local cuisine between San Diego & Durham , providing insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home.

San DiegoDurham
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosPulled Pork BBQ
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemCalifornia BurritoFood Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nana's Restaurant
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Scratch Bakery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

San Diego is renowned for its vibrant Mexican-inspired cuisine, with fish tacos and the California burrito standing out as city staples, reflecting the city's coastal and cultural identity. The health-conscious can find solace in the myriad of options, particularly in neighborhoods like Hillcrest and North Park, known for their trendy vegan cafes and restaurants. Durham, on the other hand, weaves a rich tapestry of Southern flavors, with pulled pork BBQ and food truck tacos highlighting the city's diverse and evolving food scene. The city’s food trucks, often found in downtown Durham, offer a vibrant taste of local and international cuisines, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Both cities cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, but Durham's burgeoning food scene, characterized by establishments like Nana's and Pizzeria Toro, brings a unique Southern charm to the table.

San Diego vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison

Food holds the power to make any place feel like home. As you prepare for your move from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC, this restaurant comparison will serve as your guide to discovering your new favorite dining spots, seamlessly transitioning your taste buds from the familiar to the excitingly new.

San DiegoDurhamWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyMateo Bar de TapasBoth offer an inventive twist on their respective cuisines in a chic, upscale setting.
Phil's BBQPicnicSouthern BBQ meets its match with both offering mouth-watering, smoked meats that are equally tender and flavorful.
The Fish MarketLocals Seafood Market & Oyster BarOffering fresh, locally-sourced seafood that's tantamount to San Diego's coastal catches.
Hodad'sBull City Burger and BreweryBoth embody the essence of a classic American burger joint with a focus on quality and taste.
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco ShopChubby's TacosDiverse Mexican eats that promise flavor-packed tacos, mimicking Lucha Libre's eclectic vibe and tasty offerings.
Cucina UrbanaGocciolinaA cozy spot serving Italian dishes that comfort and excite, parallel to Cucina Urbana’s rustic yet modern twist.
Cafe 21Foster's MarketBoth serve up fresh, farm-to-table fare in a casual, inviting atmosphere, catering to the health-conscious eater.
Extraordinary DessertsThe ParlourArtisan dessert spots that specialize in decadently crafted sweets, promising an extraordinary experience.
KINDREDAlley Twenty SixThough known for cocktails, the sophisticated ambiance and creative dishes draw a parallel to KINDRED's unique dining experience.
Mister A'sCounting HouseBoth offer a fine dining experience combining stunning views with masterfully prepared dishes.

In your quest for culinary contentment in Durham, places like Mateo Bar de Tapas and Picnic become more than mere restaurants; they transform into havens of familiar flavors and new favorites. At Mateo, you will find an ambiance and a menu that effortlessly marries with the inventive spirit of Juniper & Ivy, calling to those who appreciate a modern twist on classic cuisine. Similarly, Picnic's dedication to barbecue mirrors the passion and quality found at Phil's BBQ, making it the go-to for those seeking comfort in the smoky taste of well-prepared meats. Between these establishments, you'll discover a culinary landscape in Durham that parallels the diversity and excitement of San Diego's food scene, ensuring that no matter where you dine, you'll always feel a little bit at home.

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Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of your current and future homes is crucial. Understanding how San Diego and Durham stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can help inform your decision. Let's dive into the specifics.

ComparisonSan DiegoDurham
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish and ModernColonial and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean views, Solar panelsLarge yards, Proximity to Research Triangle Park

While the median home price and monthly rent in San Diego are significantly higher than in Durham, the cost of living in California often comes with perks like ocean views and a strong push towards sustainability, reflected in popular features like solar panels. Durham, on the other hand, offers a more subdued urban lifestyle but boasts larger yard spaces and proximity to one of the nation's leading research hubs, Research Triangle Park. This comparison highlights the contrast in living experiences between the west and east coast, guiding potential movers in setting realistic expectations for their new homes.

San Diego vs. Durham Weather Considerations

When planning a move, assessing how the weather compares between San Diego and Durham is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison will help you understand the environmental changes you'll face, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new home's climate.

Summer icon
76°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 49°F

San Diego, CA

50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

42

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

4

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

The key differences in climate between San Diego and Durham are noteworthy, especially concerning temperature variations and precipitation. While San Diego enjoys a mild climate year-round with minimal rainfall, making outdoor activities a year-long affair, Durham experiences a wider temperature range, with hot, humid summers and colder winters. Perhaps one of the most significant changes you'll face in Durham is the increase in annual rainfall and the occasional snowfall, contrasting with San Diego's drier conditions. Additionally, moving to Durham means adjusting to higher humidity levels and preparing for different natural disaster risks, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, compared to San Diego's earthquakes and wildfires.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC? It's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions will change. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.

ComparisonSan DiegoDurham
Avg. Household Income$93,042$71,343
Cost of Living Index132.396.6
State Income Tax13.30%5.25%
Avg. Property Tax0.76%0.84%
Avg. Sales Tax7.75%7.50%
Top 3 IndustriesMilitary, International Trade, Research and HealthcareEducation, Healthcare, and Information Technology
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

When comparing these two cities, you'll find considerable differences in the cost of living and state income taxes, which are lower in Durham. Additionally, the primary industries shaping each city's economy vary, with Durham having a strong foothold in education, healthcare, and IT, potentially offering diverse job opportunities. While San Diego is known for its affluence, high cost of living, and significant homelessness rates, Durham presents itself as a more moderately priced option with a growing economic environment, which could translate to a more balanced lifestyle for newcomers.

San Diego vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison

If you're planning a move from San Diego, CA, to Durham, NC, understanding the local community is key. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Durham, helping you grasp the cultural shift you might experience.

San DiegoDurham
Political Make-upLiberalLiberal
Local PoliticsDiverse RepresentationProgressive Leadership
ReligionMixed, with a significant Christian communityVaried, with a strong university influence

When you move from San Diego to Durham, you'll find that both cities boast a liberal political landscape, though the flavor of their local governance may differ. San Diego is known for its diverse representation within local politics, reflective of its large and varied population. Durham, meanwhile, is celebrated for its progressive leadership, often driven by the city's vibrant university community. Religion plays a varied role in both locales, with San Diego hosting a significant Christian community alongside various other faiths. In Durham, the presence of prestigious institutions like Duke University adds a unique blend of academic and faith-based influences to the city's religious scene.

San Diego vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Diego, CA to Durham, NC requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Durham helps provide a clearer picture of what to expect when switching coasts.

ComparisonSan DiegoDurham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingDifficult

While both cities present their own set of challenges and benefits when it comes to commuting, there are notable differences. San Diego offers better public transportation options with services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, making it somewhat easier to get by without a car compared to Durham. However, Durham benefits from less traffic congestion, providing a smoother daily commute. San Diego's slightly higher traffic congestion reflects its larger population and vast network of highways. Ultimately, your lifestyle and work location will heavily influence whether or not living without a car is feasible in either city.

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