Moving from Boston to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Boston to Durham Movers

Moving from the historical cobblestones of Boston, "The Cradle of Liberty," to the verdant, laid-back vibes of Durham, "The Bull City," marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading Revolutionary echoes and brisk Atlantic winds for a slice of Southern charm and a vibrant research-driven community. Recognizing the magnitude of such a long-distance transition, we emphasize the importance of choosing trusted and reputable professional movers, ensuring this significant shift is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Massachusetts iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to Durham Movers

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

#1
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

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#2
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,675+ data points

Cambridge, MA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3638077 Verify

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

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#3
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,979+ data points

Arlington, MA
Local moving services, Long-distance and interstate moving services, Cheap moving rates with two or three movers See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2065664 Verify

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in boston 2022 intelligent labor moving image
#4
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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#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 9/10/2024)

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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Relocating from Boston to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Relocating to a new city can be much smoother when you can compare it to what you already know. That's why we've created a guide to help compare local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Durham, NC . By understanding which neighborhood in Durham mirrors the one you love in Boston, you can start to feel at home even before you arrive.

BostonDurham
Back BayTrinity Park

Historic homes, vibrant community feel

Beacon HillOld West Durham

Quaint, tree-lined streets

North EndWarehouse District

Rich history, culinary scene

South EndCleveland-Holloway

Diverse, artistic vibe

FenwayNinth Street

Lively, with entertainment options

South BostonBrightleaf

Growing, vibrant community

Jamaica PlainHope Valley

Green spaces, inclusive atmosphere

CharlestownWoodcroft

Family-friendly, with historic charm

Seaport DistrictAmerican Tobacco District

Modern, with waterfront views

Allston-BrightonGeer Street

Young, energetic community

For those who love the historic charm of Back Bay with its iconic Victorian brownstones and vibrant atmosphere, Trinity Park in Durham will charm you with similar historic homes and a strong community feel. Fans of the rich Italian culture and bustling streets of Boston's North End will find a delightful culinary scene in Durham's Warehouse District, reminiscent of the lively European ambiance. For those drawn to the artistic and diverse culture of the South End in Boston, Cleveland-Holloway in Durham offers an eclectic vibe with its vibrant arts scene and inclusive community. Moreover, the transformation of Boston's Seaport District into a modern, waterfront hub finds a parallel in Durham's American Tobacco District, where historic industrial spaces are repurposed into dynamic areas for living, working, and entertainment, reflecting a fusion of history with modernity.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Durham

Moving from one city to another can be a profound change, laden with both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. Through comparing the pros of Boston, MA and Durham, NC , this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes associated with this relocation. Let’s explore what you might gain and lose in this significant transition.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher living costs
  • Cold winters
  • Dense traffic
  • Smaller city feel
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Milder winters
  • Less congestion
  • More suburban areas
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Less historical sites
  • Fewer cultural institutions
  • Less seafood variety
  • More car-dependent
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Vast cultural offerings
  • Abundant seafood
  • Highly walkable

Moving to Durham from Boston presents an enticing opportunity for a more affordable lifestyle, courtesy of the significantly lower living costs. You'll find your budget stretches further here, particularly when it comes to housing and daily expenses. Moreover, Durham's milder winter climate is a pleasant departure from Boston's harsh snowy months, offering more outdoor activities year-round. Despite missing out on Boston's rich tapestry of history and its bustling seafood scene, Durham compensates with its own vibrant cultural scene. Places like Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) and the historic Brightleaf Square provide unique entertainment and shopping experiences. Plus, the city's emerging culinary scene, including renowned spots like Pizzeria Toro, ensure you're never far from exceptional dining. While Durham's spread-out nature may decrease walkability, the shift encourages exploration of quaint neighborhoods and surrounding areas, revealing a different, but equally enriching, community fabric.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Boston to Durham

Understanding the local food scene is essential when relocating, as food is a significant part of local culture and everyday living. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Durham, NC ; by exploring these culinary landscapes, you can get a taste of what each city has to offer and make a more informed decision about your upcoming move.

BostonDurham

Most iconic local food item

New England Clam ChowderCarolina-style BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Lobster RollPulled Pork Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Italian SausageFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladVegan Barbecue

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Union Oyster House
  • Poole's Diner
  • Nana's Restaurant
  • Pizzeria Toro

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

79

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

89

When you relocate from Boston to Durham, you'll exchange the iconic New England Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls for the smoky flavors of Carolina-style BBQ and pulled pork sandwiches. Boston's food scene thrives on its seafood and historic eateries, like Legal Sea Foods and Union Oyster House, reflecting its coastal heritage. In contrast, Durham offers a dynamic blend of Southern comfort food with a modern twist, showcased at places like Poole's Diner and Pizzeria Toro. The vibrant food truck scene in Durham, driven by a diverse range of flavors including Mexican tacos and vegan barbecue, offers an adventurous culinary experience. While both cities cater well to fitness and health-conscious individuals, Durham slightly edges out with its vegan offerings and food truck abundance, making it a haven for foodies in search of variety and innovation.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Boston to Durham

Moving to a new city is more than just finding a new place to live; it’s about making that city feel like home. One way to do this is by discovering the local culinary scene. This restaurant comparison from Boston, MA to Durham, NC will help you find your new favorite spots using your current hometown favorites as a guide.

Neptune OysterSaint James Seafood

Fresh seafood and oyster bar similar to Neptune Oyster's offerings

OleanaParizade

Mediterranean cuisine that mirrors Oleana's creative and flavorful dishes

Mike's PastryEast Durham Bake Shop

Known for desserts and pastries reminiscent of Mike's Pastry

No. 9 ParkCounting House

Offers a refined dining experience similar to No. 9 Park

ToroMateo Bar de Tapas

Spanish tapas bar that echoes Toro's approach to cuisine

Union Oyster HouseBlu Seafood and Bar

A place where seafood enthusiasts can find similar historic charm and quality

Flour Bakery + CafeFoster's Market

A casual eatery with a variety of baked goods and comfort food similar to Flour Bakery + Cafe

Giacomo's RistoranteGocciolina

Italian dishes that bring the warmth and authenticity of Giacomo's Ristorante

SarmaMez Contemporary Mexican

Though not a direct cuisine match, Mez offers a similar inventive twist on traditional dishes

Regina PizzeriaPizzeria Toro

Wood-fired pizzas that draw inspiration from Regina Pizzeria’s storied tradition

For those who delight in the culinary diversity and richness of Boston, transitioning to Durham doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love. You'll discover places like Saint James Seafood that offer a vivid reminder of Neptune Oyster's fresh catches, and Gocciolina, an Italian haven reminiscent of Giacomo's Ristorante, where the authenticity and warmth in every dish will instantly feel familiar. Not to mention, Mateo Bar de Tapas stands as a testament to exceptional Spanish fare, revitalizing the experience once found at Toro but with its unique Southern charm and hospitality. This guide is not just about finding a meal; it's about rediscovering the tastes of home within a new and vibrant food scene.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Boston to Durham

When considering a move, the real estate landscape is a critical aspect to explore. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing between Boston, MA, and Durham, NC , focusing on key factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This insight will guide your decisions in one of the most crucial areas of relocation.

In-depth examination reveals that despite higher living costs, Boston offers a more vibrant urban lifestyle with better walkability and proximity to public transport, making it suitable for those who prioritize city living and historic charm in their housing. On the other hand, Durham provides a cost-effective alternative with more spacious living options and a focus on natural surroundings, perfect for individuals seeking a balance between urban amenities and the tranquility of suburban life. Choosing between the architectural heritage of Boston with its Victorian and brick row houses, and the more modern, spacious offerings like ranch and Craftsman styles in Durham will significantly depend on your lifestyle preferences and financial considerations.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Boston to Durham

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather you will experience is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA and Durham, NC weather will highlight key differences to help you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8

Boston, MA

47.8

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48

Boston, MA

6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Boston to Durham, one of the most noticeable changes will be in winter temperatures and snowfall. Durham experiences milder winters with significantly less snowfall compared to Boston, making winter activities very different between the two cities. While Durham offers more days of sunshine a year and slightly higher summer temperatures, it also comes with higher humidity levels, which can affect comfort during the hotter months. Additionally, being aware of the different natural disasters typical in Durham, such as hurricanes, will prepare you better for seasonal changes. Air quality and top seasonal allergies are quite similar, although the types of pollen and their peak times may vary.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the variations in cost of living, income, and taxes between Boston and Durham is crucial for financial preparedness. This comparison helps you align your budget expectations with reality.

While Boston boasts a higher average household income compared to Durham, it's also accompanied by a notably higher cost of living, a factor crucial for budget planning. Interestingly, despite the gap in affluence, Durham offers competitive attributes like lower property and sales taxes, which can significantly affect your monthly expenditures. Notably, both cities emphasize education and health services among their top industries, promising robust employment opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances will ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and financial goals.

Political & Religious Comparison between Boston, MA and Durham, NC

This guide provides a quick snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup between Boston & Durham , offering a glimpse into the typical population characteristics of both cities. Whether you're curious about the local political atmosphere or the predominating religious beliefs, this comparison can help you understand what to expect as you make your move.

BostonDurham

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democratic strongholdProgressive leanings

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Catholic populationDiverse, with strong Baptist presence

In both Boston and Durham, you'll find a liberal political makeup, though the local politics of each city have their own nuances; Boston is known for its longstanding Democratic stronghold, while Durham is recognized for its progressive leanings. Religion in both cities is diverse, reflecting the multicultural aspects of each locale. Boston has a significant Catholic population, anchored by institutions like the Archdiocese of Boston. In contrast, Durham hosts a strong Baptist presence, supported by establishments such as the First Calvary Baptist Church. Understanding these aspects can help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Boston to Durham

Moving from Boston, MA to Durham, NC requires adapting to new driving and public transit systems. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Durham will help you better understand the differences in daily commute and traffic, easing your transition.

BostonDurham
3022

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

73

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

94

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesNo

Can you get by without car?

In Boston, the public transit system, including the MBTA (or the "T"), offers extensive subway, bus, and ferry services, making it possible to navigate through the city without a personal vehicle. However, it's contrasted by higher traffic congestion. In Durham, while the commute time is generally shorter and traffic lighter, the public transit options are not as robust, leading to a higher dependency on personal vehicles. Understanding these logistics will help you plan your daily commute more effectively, whether that means investing in a car for Durham or familiarizing yourself with the MBTA in Boston.

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