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Orlando to Durham Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from the vibrant theme park capital of Orlando to the academically enriched Tobacco Road of Durham marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're leaving behind Orlando's sunny skies and magical kingdoms for Durham's historic streets, renowned universities, and thriving tech scene. Recognizing the lengthy journey ahead, it's crucial to trust your move to professional movers who have been rigorously vetted by our unbiased algorithm at Great Guys Moving, ensuring your transition is smooth and reliable.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Orlando to Durham

#1
Sebastian Moving and More Logo
Exceptional

based on 5,993+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full Service Moves in Orlando, Air-Conditioned Storage, Packing and Unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1575104 Verify

About Sebastian Moving and More

Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloadi...Read More >>

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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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#3
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 5/23/2024)

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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#4
Orlando Express Movers Inc. Logo
Superb

based on 2,582+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full-service residential moving, Local and long-distance relocation, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2521724 Verify

About Orlando Express Movers Inc.

Orlando Express Movers Inc. has been customizing full-service moves since 2008. This Orlando company emphasizes individual needs and unique ...Read More >>

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#5
D.C. Moore & Son Logo
Superb

based on 301+ data points

Sanford, FL
Local Movers, Long Distance Moving, Storage In Orlando See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 659885 Verify

About D.C. Moore & Son

Not many moving companies can say they’ve been around as long as D.C. Moore & Son. This mover was established in 1949 and has remained a...Read More >>

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Relocating from Orlando to Durham Neighborhood Guide

This guide aims to ease the transition for those relocating by comparing local neighborhoods between Orlando, FL & Durham, NC. By leveraging your knowledge of Orlando's neighborhoods, we can match you with similar areas in Durham, helping you find your new home with a familiar feel.

OrlandoDurham
Baldwin ParkWoodcroft

Family-friendly with similar community events

Thornton ParkTrinity Park

Historic homes with a vibrant community vibe

Winter ParkHope Valley

Upscale dining and boutique shopping

College ParkOld West Durham

Eclectic and walkable with local eateries

Lake NonaTreyburn

Modern with a focus on health and innovation

Dr. PhillipsWoodlake

Upscale, with a mix of dining and leisure options

Audubon ParkCleveland-Holloway

Artsy and quirky with a growing food scene

SoDo (South of Downtown)Geer Street

Up-and-coming with trendy spots and accessibility

Delaney ParkForest Hills

Scenic and peaceful with beautiful parks

MetroWestSouthpoint

Amenity-rich and diverse with a friendly vibe

If you cherish the art and culture vibe of Audubon Park, noted for its Garden District and the renowned Leu Gardens, Durham's Cleveland-Holloway will resonate with you, thanks to its vibrant artistic community and emerging food scene, including popular spots like Saltbox Seafood Joint. For those drawn to Winter Park's upscale dining and shopping along Park Avenue, Hope Valley offers a similar ambiance with its prestigious golf course and the charming Hope Valley Diner. At the same time, College Park's homey and diverse atmosphere finds its counterpart in Old West Durham, where the blend of historic homes and modern conveniences along Ninth Street create a uniquely inviting neighborhood.

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Things to Do in Durham

  • Explore Sarah P. Duke Gardens
  • Watch a movie at Carolina Theatre
  • Try food at Durham Farmers' Market
  • Attend a DPAC performance
  • Visit Museum of Life and Science
  • Experience Dashi for ramen and sake

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Orlando to Durham

Moving from one city to another is a major decision that requires weighing both the good and the bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Orlando, FL to Durham, NC , highlighting the contrast in lifestyle, weather, and opportunities each city offers.

CONs
PROs
Orlando, FL iconOrlando, FL
  • High humidity
  • Tourist crowds
  • Expensive attractions
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Milder summers
  • Smaller, close-knit community
  • Affordable entertainment
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Fewer attractions
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Smaller job market
Orlando, FL iconOrlando, FL
  • Theme parks
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Larger job market

Moving from Orlando to Durham brings about significant lifestyle changes, trading Orlando's bustling theme parks for Durham's serene Eno River State Park. While the vibrant nightlife of Orlando, showcased in areas like the Universal CityWalk, is unmatched, Durham offers unique local gems like Ponysaurus Brewing for a more laid-back evening. Despite a smaller job market, Durham presents unique opportunities in industries such as healthcare and education with prominent institutions like Duke University. This move may mean less access to world-famous attractions but opens the door to a community-focused lifestyle with rich historical sights and an affordable cost of living.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Orlando to Durham

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Orlando & Durham, highlighting how food is a vital part of local culture and encapsulates what it's like to live in an area. This comparison will help you get a feel for the food scene in your new city.

OrlandoDurham

Most iconic local food item

Gator BitesCarolina-style Barbecue

Most popular meat dish

Cuban SandwichPulled Pork Sandwich

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosSeitan BBQ

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • 4 Rivers Smokehouse
  • Victorio's Oyster Bar and Grille
  • The Polite Pig
  • Poole's Diner
  • Backyard BBQ Pit
  • Nana's Restaurant

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

77

Abundance of Food Trucks

89

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

In Durham, the Carolina-style barbecue reigns supreme, a tradition deeply rooted in the local history and culture. Exploring neighborhoods like Downtown Durham or the Brightleaf District, you'll quickly discover the plethora of food trucks offering everything from classic American to innovative fusion dishes, signaling the city's vibrant foodie scene. Restaurants like Poole's Diner and Backyard BBQ Pit not only provide a taste of North Carolina's famous pulled pork but also highlight Durham's commitment to culinary excellence and innovation. Whether you're a meat-lover or a vegan, Durham's food scene has something exciting and delicious in store for you.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Orlando to Durham

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering where to eat. This restaurant comparison Orlando to Durham is designed to ease the transition, turning the unfamiliar into the familiar. By mapping out similar dining experiences, you'll soon find your next favorite spot, making any new city feel like home.

Vic's Italian RestaurantMateo Bar de Tapas

Spanish cuisine with a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of Vic's.

Ravenous PigPiedmont Restaurant

Farm-to-table focus, offering a sophisticated, seasonally changing menu.

Jaleo by José AndrésTaberna Tapas

Offers a contemporary take on Spanish small plates, echoing Jaleó's vibrancy.

Kres ChophouseAngus Barn

Although in Raleigh, it's a steakhouse legend, providing a comparable upscale dining experience.

Ceviche Tapas Bar & RestaurantBar Virgile

Offers an array of small plates, with a comfortable, intimate setting similar to Ceviche.

DomuM Kokko

Ramen-focused eatery with inventive takes on classic bowls, much like Domu.

Black Rooster TaqueriaNUVOtaco

Known for its vibrant flavors and creative taco fillings, a parallel to Black Rooster Taqueria.

The Polite PigPicnic

Captures the essence of Southern BBQ with locally sourced ingredients, similar to The Polite Pig.

PratoMother & Sons Trattoria

Italian fare that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, akin to Prato's approach.

Garp & FussBull City Burger and Brewery

While not a direct match, it’s a place with a strong local vibe and unique eats.

Exploring Durham's dining scene brings the comforting reminder that great food can cross geographical boundaries. Take, for example, Mateo Bar de Tapas, where the essence of Vic's Italian Restaurant's warm, flavorful Spanish cuisine continues to thrive in a new city. Likewise, those missing the innovative ramen bowls of Domu will find solace in M Kokko’s adventurous ramen creations, emphasizing the universal language of carefully crafted comfort food. And for a taste of home, the farm-to-table dedication of Piedmont Restaurant echoes the Ravenous Pig's commitment to local, seasonal ingredients, proving that dedication to quality and community knows no bounds.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Orlando to Durham

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape between your current city and your destination is crucial. This comparison of Orlando, FL, and Durham, NC, focusing on housing characteristics such as cost, architecture, and livability, will provide valuable insights for making an informed decision.

The median home prices and monthly rents indicate the cost of living differences between Orlando and Durham, with Durham homes slightly higher in purchase price but more affordable in terms of rent. Architecture in Orlando leans towards modern and Mediterranean styles, reflecting Florida's coastal vibe, whereas Durham features Colonial and Craftsman styles, echoing North Carolina's historical roots. Durham scores slightly higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, suggesting a slightly more urban and active community. The most popular real estate listing items reflect the unique character of each city, with Orlando highlighting community amenities and theme park access, while Durham emphasizes tech-oriented features and proximity to top-tier research institutions.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Durham, NC

1. Trinity Park: This historic neighborhood offers lush parks and open spaces where your pets can play, plus easy access to Rockwood Park, a favorite among local pet owners.

2. Woodcroft: Known for its pet-friendly trails and community atmosphere, Woodcroft provides a serene setting for pet owners, with access to the American Tobacco Trail for long walks or runs.

3. Southpoint: This neighborhood is adjacent to the Streets at Southpoint mall which allows pets in many areas, and it hosts several pet-friendly restaurants and shops.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Orlando to Durham

When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison between Orlando, FL and Durham, NC will highlight how the climate varies, preparing you for the environmental changes you'll experience.

Summer icon
91/73

Orlando, FL

89/68

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
72/49

Orlando, FL

52/32

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
53.19

Orlando, FL

47.76

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Orlando, FL

4.6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Relocating from Orlando to Durham brings notable weather changes. You'll experience cooler winters in Durham, with an average high of 52°F in winter months compared to Orlando's mild 72°F. Despite having fewer days of sunshine than Orlando, Durham offers a pleasant climate with lower humidity levels, making the heat more bearable during the summer. However, prepare for the winter season, as Durham experiences occasional snowfall, something almost unheard of in Orlando. Also, the air quality in Durham is considered moderate, which might be a factor if you have respiratory sensitivities. Finally, while both cities grapple with pollen as a top seasonal allergy, Durham residents also deal with dust.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's crucial to weigh the financial implications of such a decision. This comparison aims to illuminate how the cost of living and financial landscape of Orlando, FL, and Durham, NC align with your fiscal reality, guiding you towards an informed transition.

The financial landscapes of Orlando, FL, and Durham, NC, present unique advantages and challenges for residents. While Orlando boasts no state income tax, which can be a significant savings, Durham compensates with a higher average household income and a slightly higher affluence level, hinting at potentially better job opportunities or higher wages in that area. However, it's also important to note the difference in the cost of living indexes; despite Durham having a slightly higher index, the difference is somewhat offset by its higher income levels. The distinct top industries in each city reflect the local economies' diversity, offering varied employment opportunities depending on your professional background.

Political & Religious Comparison between Orlando, FL and Durham, NC

When planning your move from Orlando, FL to Durham, NC, understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup of the residents between Orlando & Durham . It's an easy way to see at a glance how your new neighborhood might align with your values and beliefs.

OrlandoDurham

Political Make-up

Liberal-leaningLiberal-leaning

Local Politics

Democratic majority in city leadershipDemocratic majority in city leadership

Religion

Christianity predominant, diverse religious landscapeChristianity predominant, diverse religious landscape

Moving from Orlando to Durham, you'll find both cities share a liberal-leaning political makeup, with local politics dominated by a Democratic majority. This similarity might make the transition smoother for you politically. However, regardless of this parallel, the local issues and priorities can differ, offering new areas where you can engage and contribute. Both cities boast a predominantly Christian community, yet they embrace a diverse religious landscape. This diversity reflects the inclusive nature of both cities, potentially providing a seamless experience in connecting with a community that aligns with or respects your beliefs.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Orlando to Durham

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Orlando & Durham helps you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience could be like. Moving cities is a big step, and knowing how you'll get around is essential.

OrlandoDurham
2522

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

56

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingMore feasible, especially near urban centers

Can you get by without car?

In Orlando, while the average commute time is manageable, the city experiences a higher degree of traffic congestion compared to Durham. This could lead to longer and potentially more stressful commutes. Orlando's public transit options are improving, but reliance on a car is still quite high. In contrast, Durham offers a slightly better scenario for those looking to depend less on personal vehicles. With better availability of public transit and lower traffic congestion, getting around is somewhat easier and could contribute to a less hectic daily routine. This aspect of Durham living might appeal especially to those who prioritize environmental concerns or wish to reduce commuting stress.

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