Moving from San Francisco to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Francisco to Durham Movers

Moving from the tech-rich, hilly landscapes of San Francisco to the research-driven, vibrant streets of Durham represents an exciting leap into new opportunities and adventures. You're trading the iconic Golden Gate for the historic tobacco town, each with their unique flavor and community spirit. Given the significant distance and logistical challenges of such a move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. We at Great Guys Moving understand the importance of securing a seamless transition, ensuring that your arrival in Durham is as welcoming and stress-free as possible.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to San Francisco guide.

5 Best San Francisco 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
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#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 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
B
Exceptional

based on 634+ data points

San Francisco, CA
Long-distance moving, Small relocation , Full packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 1396171 Verify

About Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>

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#5
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
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Relocating from San Francisco to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease the transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Durham, NC. By aligning familiar San Francisco areas with their Durham counterparts, you can better envision your life in the Bull City.

San FranciscoDurham
Marina DistrictTrinity Park

Historic homes, vibrant community feel

The MissionCentral Park

Artsy, with a foodie scene

Haight-AshburyWarehouse District

Bohemian vibes, local art

Nob HillForest Hills

Upscale, with a touch of history

SoMa (South of Market)American Tobacco District

Industrial chic, entertainment hub

Pacific HeightsHope Valley

Affluent, with beautiful homes

North BeachNinth Street

Lively, with a dense mix of dining options

CastroBrightleaf

Welcoming, with a vibrant nightlife

Inner SunsetOld West Durham

Cozy, family-friendly atmosphere

Russian HillDuke Park

Quiet, green spaces, scenic views

For those moving from the bustling Marina District in San Francisco, you will find a similar community spirit and historic charm in Durham's Trinity Park. Imagine walking among the picturesque homes, then enjoying a coffee at Monuts Donuts, a favorite local spot. Meanwhile, if the rich, bohemian vibes of Haight-Ashbury resonate with you, the Warehouse District in Durham offers a similar eclectic energy, underscored by art spaces like the Carrack Modern Art gallery. And for the social butterflies who thrived in North Beach's dynamic atmosphere, Ninth Street in Durham promises lively evenings with friends at establishments like Fullsteam Brewery, where the city's sociable essence is on full display. By making these neighborhood comparisons, we hope to not just guide you to a new home, but also to a new community in Durham where you'll thrive.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Durham

Moving from one city to another can be a profound change with a mix of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC , highlighting what you might gain and what you'll need to adjust to in the process. These charts are designed to give you a balanced view of the relocation.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Dense population
  • Challenging parking
  • Less green space
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less crowded
  • Easier parking
  • More parks/nature
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller tech community
  • Less diverse options
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Limited public transit
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Extensive public transit

Moving from the bustling city of San Francisco with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant tech scene, and diverse culinary offerings to the more tranquil and greener pastures of Durham offers a distinctive change of pace. Durham, while not matching San Francisco's vast array of global cuisines, still boasts excellent dining spots like Poole's Diner and Mateo Bar de Tapas. Nature lovers moving to Durham will appreciate the plentiful parks and outdoor spaces such as the Eno River State Park, a sharp contrast to San Francisco's more urban landscape. While San Francisco's tech scene is unmatched, Durham is part of the Research Triangle, offering ample opportunities for innovation and tech employment, albeit on a smaller scale.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Francisco to Durham

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Durham, highlighting the significant role food plays in the cultural landscape of a region. Understanding the culinary differences can help you better assimilate into your new home, enriching your relocation experience with local flavors and dining traditions.

San FranciscoDurham

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadCarolina-style BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Mission-style BurritoPulled Pork

Most popular street food item

Food TrucksFood Trucks

Most popular vegan food

Vegan RamenBBQ Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Tartine Bakery
    2. The Slanted Door
    3. Nopalito
    1. Dame's Chicken and Waffles
    2. Poole's Diner
    3. The Pit

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

97

Abundance of Food Trucks

97

Foodie Scene

108

Vegan Friendly

97

In San Francisco, the culinary scene is as diverse as its population, with innumerable options ranging from the traditional sourdough bread to innovative vegan dishes. Neighborhoods like Mission District and Richmond offer a tasting tour of the world, from authentic Mexican cuisine at spots like La Taqueria to Asian fusion in The Slanted Door. In contrast, Durham's food landscape showcases its historic roots through Carolina-style BBQ and soul food, with establishments like The Pit in the downtown area serving as a testament to the city's smoky flavors. Both cities boast a vibrant array of food trucks and health-conscious options, ensuring a fit for every palate and lifestyle.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Francisco to Durham

Finding comfort in familiar flavors helps make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help San Francisco residents discover their new favorite spots in Durham, blending the best of both worlds. Whether you're seeking a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, or a unique foodie adventure, this guide serves as your culinary compass.

State Bird ProvisionsMateo Bar de Tapas

Spanish tapas style dining, innovative dishes

Zuni CaféParizade

Mediterranean cuisine with a vibrant, upscale atmosphere

The Slanted DoorMothers & Sons

A modern twist on classic Italian, emphasizing fresh pasta

NopaPizzeria Toro

Wood-fired pizzas with a focus on local ingredients

La TaqueriaGuasaca

Offers arepa-based dishes for a South American street food vibe

Gary DankoCounting House

Creative American cuisine in a fine dining setting

Tartine BakeryMonuts

Known for freshly-made donuts and creative bagel sandwiches

Swan Oyster DepotSaltbox Seafood Joint

Fresh, locally-sourced seafood with a casual flair

Bi-Rite CreameryThe Parlour

Artisanal ice cream with a focus on seasonal flavors

Mission Chinese FoodM Kokko

Asian cuisine with a modern, bold approach to flavors

For those who cherish a fine dining experience akin to Gary Danko, Counting House in Durham provides a creative American cuisine that's bound to impress with its artful presentation and innovative flavors. When you're missing the unique Asian fusion of Mission Chinese Food, M Kokko stands ready to dazzle your palate with its modern, bold approach to Asian cuisine, integrating a dynamic range of flavors in a relaxed setting. For fans of San Francisco's iconic Tartine Bakery, Monuts in Durham offers a comparable delight in the form of freshly-made donuts and bagel sandwiches, highlighting the use of fresh, local ingredients in their baked goods, thus resembling the spirit of Tartine's beloved offerings.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from San Francisco to Durham

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is essential. This comparison dives into housing attributes between San Francisco, CA , and Durham, NC , offering insights on costs, architecture, and lifestyle. It illuminates key differences and similarities, ensuring you make an informed decision.

While San Francisco and Durham offer distinct living experiences, each city has its unique charm. San Francisco, known for its iconic Victorian houses and exceptional walkability, caters to an urban lifestyle with its proximity to tech hubs and panoramic bay views. On the other hand, Durham offers more affordable housing options with Colonial and Craftsman styles, large yards, and easy access to top-rated universities. If you value a dense urban environment and are prepared for a higher cost of living, San Francisco may be the right choice. However, Durham could be your ideal destination for a more laid-back lifestyle with a blend of academic and cultural richness.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Durham

Understanding how the weather compares is crucial when moving from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare accordingly for the new climatic conditions you'll encounter.

Summer icon
67°F / 53°F

San Francisco, CA

89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

52°F / 32°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23.65

San Francisco, CA

42.34

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

4.6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from San Francisco to Durham, prepare for warmer summers and cooler winters. Durham's summer highs can reach up to 89°F, significantly warmer than San Francisco's mild 67°F average. Winters in Durham can be colder, with lows averaging 32°F, compared to San Francisco's more comfortable 46°F lows. Additionally, Durham experiences more annual rainfall, so investing in quality rain gear will be beneficial. Also, be mindful of the different natural disasters, switching from the earthquake proneness of San Francisco to the hurricanes and tornadoes more common in Durham.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC , it’s crucial to grasp how your financial situation might shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the monetary differences and similarities between these two cities, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Moving from San Francisco to Durham presents a significant financial shift, especially in terms of cost of living and household income. The stark contrast in the Cost of Living Index, with San Francisco being more than double that of Durham, indicates your dollar might stretch further in Durham, making it easier to manage daily expenses. However, this comes with a trade-off in average household income, which dramatically decreases once you relocate. Moreover, while San Francisco's economy is heavily skewed towards technology and finance sectors, Durham boasts a robust presence in education, health services, and manufacturing, potentially offering diverse job opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances is essential for anyone considering this intercity move.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Francisco, CA and Durham, NC

This quick guide offers an at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Francisco & Durham . It aims to provide you with a clearer understanding of the cultural landscape you're moving into.

San FranciscoDurham

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocratLiberal/Democrat

Local Politics

Progressively liberal, focus on social issuesLiberal, with growing emphasis on inclusivity and equity

Religion

Less religious, diverse beliefsMore religious, strong Christian presence

San Francisco and Durham share liberal-leaning political perspectives, reflecting a broader acceptance of diverse lifestyles and beliefs. This common ground may ease your transition. However, Durham exhibits a stronger Christian presence, offering a variety of religious communities that you might find align well with any desire for community engagement or spiritual fulfillment. This comparison sheds light on the sociopolitical and religious landscapes that shape local cultures, potentially influencing your experience in your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Durham

Moving cities can be daunting, especially when considering the differences in daily commutes between your old and new home. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Durham is designed to help you navigate these changes smoothly.

San FranciscoDurham
3424

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

84

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

95

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesIt's challenging

Can you get by without car?

In San Francisco, you might find yourself relying heavily on public transit for your daily commutes, thanks to its high availability and efficiency. Cities like San Francisco are designed with the pedestrian and commuter in mind, allowing many residents to forego owning a car entirely. On the other hand, in Durham, while there is some public transit available, it's not as comprehensive, making car ownership more of a necessity. This stark difference in public transit availability and the reliance on cars in Durham are crucial considerations as you plan your move, especially in budgeting for transportation costs.

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