Moving from Atlanta to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Atlanta to Durham Movers

Moving from the bustling heart of Atlanta, affectionately dubbed "The ATL", to the vibrant, research-driven city of Durham, known as "Bull City", is an adventure that promises both excitement and a fresh start. Leaving behind Atlanta's iconic skyline and stepping into Durham's rich historical and educational landscape represents not just a change of address, but a meaningful life transition. Recognizing the distance and logistics involved, it's crucial to entrust this journey to professional movers you can rely on, and that's where we come in. With Great Guys Moving, you'll have access to top-rated movers vetted through our unbiased ranking algorithm, ensuring your move is smooth and stress-free.

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

5 Best Atlanta to Durham Movers

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

#1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearFree estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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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#2
Atlanta Home Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,052+ data points

Location DotMarietta, GA
GearLocal Moves, Commercial Moves, Long Distance Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3014107 Verify

About Atlanta Home Movers

Founded in 2014, Atlanta Home Movers is a locally-owned moving company that provides services in and around Atlanta, including the communiti...Read More >>

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#3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearLocal Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
Wirks Moving and Storage  Logo
Superb

based on 1,996+ data points

Location DotMarietta, GA
GearLocal Moving Services, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1942465 Verify

About Wirks Moving and Storage

There’s a reason Wirks Moving and Storage is a preferred mover for many real estate agencies. With over 12 years of experience in the moving...Read More >>

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#5
Georgia Home Movers Atlanta Logo
Superb

based on 3,009+ data points

Location DotAtlanta, GA
GearLocal Moving, Packing Services, Office & Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3014107 Verify

About Georgia Home Movers Atlanta

With locations in Marietta, Roswell, and Atlanta it is no surprise that Georgia Home Movers is a go-to moving company for residents of Georg...Read More >>

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Relocating from Atlanta to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Familiarizing yourself with a new city can be daunting. This guide offers a comparison of popular neighborhoods to help you adjust to life in Durham, NC by using your knowledge of Atlanta, GA as a baseline. We'll highlight the local neighborhoods between Atlanta, GA & Durham, NC for a seamless transition.

AtlantaDurham
MidtownDowntown Durham

Entertainment, arts, nightlife

Virginia-HighlandTrinity Park

Historic homes, community vibe

BuckheadHope Valley

High-end shopping, exclusive area

Inman ParkBrightleaf District

Trendy spots, restaurants

Old Fourth WardWest End

Revitalized, cultural hub

Grant ParkDuke Park

Family-friendly, park areas

East Atlanta VillageOld West Durham

Eclectic, artsy vibe

Ansley ParkForest Hills

Leafy, residential charm

Poncey-HighlandRockwood

Hip hangouts, eateries

West MidtownSouthpoint

Shopping, dining hotspots

If you enjoy the bustling nightlife and arts scene in Midtown, you'll feel right at home in Downtown Durham with its vibrant entertainment and cultural offerings. Trinity Park, much like Virginia-Highland, features charming historic homes and a strong community vibe, perfect for a cozy neighborhood feel. For upscale shopping and exclusive living, Hope Valley in Durham offers a luxury experience similar to Buckhead. If trendy restaurants and lively spots excite you, exploring the Brightleaf District will remind you of Inman Park’s hip and happening places. Families will appreciate the green spaces and welcoming atmosphere of Duke Park, echoing the family-friendly and park-focused ambiance of Grant Park in Atlanta.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Atlanta to Durham

Moving from one city to another brings its set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to offer a balanced perspective on relocating from Atlanta, GA to Durham, NC , highlighting both the pros and cons. The purpose of the following charts is to provide an honest reflection of what changes you can expect, allowing you to weigh the bad against the good and vice versa in this significant life decision.

CONs
PROs
Atlanta, GA iconAtlanta, GA
  • Higher property costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Hot summers
  • Limited public transit
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • More affordable housing
  • Less congestion
  • Milder climate
  • Better public transit options
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer restaurants
  • Less frequent events
Atlanta, GA iconAtlanta, GA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Large city amenities
  • Diverse dining options
  • Extensive cultural events

Relocating from Atlanta to Durham means transitioning from the bustling atmosphere of a large city to the charm of a smaller, yet rapidly growing, community. Durham is known for its welcoming neighborhoods, such as Trinity Park and Old West Durham, where the sense of community is strong, and green spaces like Sarah P. Duke Gardens offer tranquil outdoor experiences. Although you might find the dining scene less extensive than Atlanta's, restaurants like Mateo Bar de Tapas and Pizzeria Toro stand out for their quality and innovation. Cultural events, while less frequent, hold their unique appeal with venues like the Durham Performing Arts Center hosting a variety of shows. Overall, Durham offers a blend of affordability, quality of life, and an emerging cultural scene that can be a refreshing change from Atlanta's fast pace.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Atlanta to Durham

This comparison of the local cuisine between Atlanta, GA, and Durham, NC, is crafted to enrich your understanding of the vibrant food scenes in both cities. As you prepare to move, appreciating the culinary landscape is crucial for immersing yourself into the local culture and lifestyle of your new home.

AtlantaDurham

Most iconic local food item

Peach Cobbler
Carolina-style BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Fried Chicken
Pulled Pork Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Chicken and Waffles
Food Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Soul Food
Jackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The Varsity
  • The Fox Theatre (for events and food)
  • Ponce City Market
  • Piedmont Restaurant
  • Dame's Chicken and Waffles
  • Fullsteam Brewery

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

8
9

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

9
8

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

8
7

As you transition from Atlanta to Durham, you'll discover that both cities boast rich, diverse culinary scenes, from classic comfort foods to innovative vegan options. In Atlanta, indulging in Peach Cobbler or exploring the historic Ponce City Market for an array of dining options encapsulates the spirit of Southern hospitality and innovation. On the other hand, Durham welcomes you with its signature Carolina-style BBQ and a thriving food truck scene, especially around Downtown Durham and the American Tobacco District. Whether you're craving Dame's Chicken and Waffles or exploring the vegan-friendly fares at local cafes, Durham’s food scene is a testament to its evolving culinary landscape, balancing traditional Southern flavors with modern, health-conscious options.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Atlanta to Durham

Deciding where to dine is a crucial part of making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to help you find your new favorite spots in Durham, NC, using your current Atlanta, GA favorites as a guide. By highlighting comparisons between the two cities' top restaurants, this guide intends to ease your transition from Atlanta to Durham .

The VarsityBull City Burger and Brewery

Similar because of its iconic status and classic American fare.

GunshowMateo Bar de Tapas

Though a Spanish tapas place, it mirrors Gunshow's innovative and communal dining experience.

Antico Pizza NapoletanaPizzeria Toro

Both are known for authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas.

StaplehouseParizade

Offers a similarly upscale dining experience with a focus on quality and creativity.

Miller UnionGocciolina

While Italian in focus, it shares Miller Union's dedication to farm-to-table principles.

Fox Bros. Bar-B-QThe Pit

Classic Southern BBQ with a strong reputation for quality and flavor.

Le FatM Sushi

Both provide high-quality, innovative takes on their respective cuisines (Vietnamese and Japanese).

Mary Mac's Tea RoomDame's Chicken and Waffles

Both offer beloved Southern classics that make you feel at home.

AtlasCounting House

Known for its artful presentation and upscale, modern cuisine, akin to Atlas.

Busy Bee CaféPompieri Pizza

Though primarily a pizza place, it's loved for its casual, yet high-quality dining experience.

Whilst each establishment boasts its unique charm, parallels can be drawn based on cuisine, dining experience, and the eagerness to provide memorable meals. For instance, making the transition from the iconic Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q to Durham's The Pit will feel seamless for BBQ aficionados in search of tender, smoky meats. Similarly, fans of Antico Pizza Napoletana's wood-fired pizzas will find solace and satisfaction in the Neapolitan pies served up at Pizzeria Toro. Each pair isn't just about similar dishes; it's about capturing the essence and atmosphere that made you fall in love with your Atlanta favorites, ensuring Durham feels like home, one meal at a time.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Atlanta to Durham

Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. Understanding how Atlanta, GA and Durham, NC compare in terms of housing can significantly impact your decision. This comparison will delve into cost, architecture, and lifestyle features to give you a comprehensive overview.

When comparing Atlanta and Durham, the median home prices and rent suggest that Durham is a more affordable option. However, Atlanta boasts a slightly higher urban lifestyle rating, indicative of its vibrant culture and array of amenities. The architecture styles also reflect the cities' unique characters, with Atlanta favoring modern and craftsman styles, whereas Durham homes often feature colonial or ranch designs. For those valuing outdoor space, Durham listings frequently highlight spacious yards—a contrast to Atlanta's emphasis on hardwood floors and large kitchens. This detailed overview can guide you in finding a city that matches your housing preferences and lifestyle needs.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Atlanta to Durham

Considering a move from Atlanta, GA, to Durham, NC? Understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you grasp what kind of weather changes to expect, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new environment in Atlanta and Durham .

Summer icon
89/71

Atlanta, GA

89/68

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
52/34

Atlanta, GA

50/30

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Atlanta, GA

48"

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
2"

Atlanta, GA

3"

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Atlanta and Durham enjoy similar average summer high temperatures, you might find winters slightly colder in Durham. Interestingly, Durham experiences a slightly higher number of sunny days per year compared to Atlanta, which might come as a pleasant surprise. Moreover, while both cities suffer from pollen as a top seasonal allergy, Durham generally boasts better air quality than Atlanta. Understanding these nuances can greatly assist in your acclimation to Durham's weather, offering a hint at minor adjustments you'll want to consider for your wardrobe and possibly your daily routine.

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

When planning to move from one city to another, understanding the differences in financial aspects such as the cost of living, taxes, and average income is crucial. This information can help you prepare for the financial changes ahead. Let's dive into how Atlanta, GA stacks up against Durham, NC regarding money and finance considerations for potential movers.

In comparing financial factors between Atlanta and Durham , it's evident that while average household incomes are slightly lower in Durham, the cost of living is more affordable, offering a balanced economic scenario for new residents. Another significant consideration is state income tax; Georgia's variable rates contrast with North Carolina's flat rate, which could impact your take-home pay depending on your income level. However, Durham shines in affordability, with lower sales and property taxes, making everyday living potentially less burdensome. Additionally, each city's top industries suggest a diverse economic landscape, providing varied employment opportunities depending on your field of expertise.

Political & Religious Comparison between Atlanta, GA and Durham, NC

Considering a move from Atlanta, GA, to Durham, NC, and curious about how your new neighbors might lean politically or what religious communities you'll find? This quick guide provides a comparison of the politics between Atlanta & Durham alongside a snapshot of religious backgrounds in both cities, offering insights into the cultural landscape you're moving into.

AtlantaDurham

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Diverse representationProgressive leadership

Religion

Mix of Protestant, Catholic, and non-religiousDiverse with a significant Protestant presence

In both Atlanta and Durham, you'll find a liberal/democratic political makeup, although each city expresses its political culture in unique ways. Atlanta is known for its diverse representation in local politics, reflecting its status as a major urban center with a rich history of civil rights activism. Durham, while smaller, boasts a progressive leadership that has been proactive in addressing social issues and fostering community development. Religiously, both cities offer a variety of communities, though Atlanta's demographic is slightly more diverse, including Protestants, Catholics, and a significant number of non-religious residents. Durham's religious landscape is similarly varied, but with a notable Protestant presence. Whether you're politically active or searching for a religious community, both cities provide a welcoming environment with opportunities to engage.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Atlanta to Durham

Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in Atlanta, GA & Durham, NC will help you better navigate your daily commute and adjust to traffic patterns. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when moving from one city to the other.

AtlantaDurham
3422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

84

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

63

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, but limited

Can you get by without a car?

When moving from Atlanta to Durham, you'll notice a significant change in the average commute times and traffic congestion. Atlanta, well-known for its bustling streets and heavy traffic, presents a longer commute time on average compared to Durham's more laid-back driving conditions. Though Atlanta scores higher in terms of public transit availability, thanks to services like MARTA, Durham's smaller scale may make getting around without a car more feasible for some, albeit with limitations. Adapting to these differences will be a key factor in your transition between these two cities.

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