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Durham to Los Angeles Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from the cozy academia of Durham, NC, to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, CA, is an adventure filled with new opportunities and exciting challenges. You're leaving behind the Bull City's historic charm for the City of Angels, known for its endless sunshine, entertainment industry, and diverse culture. To make this long journey a smooth transition, the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstressed, and that's where we step in, offering you top-ranked moving services to ensure your move is as seamless as possible.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

#1
Best California Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3489907 Verify

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry. Th...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
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 11,757+ data points

Los Angeles, CA
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3983945 Verify

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a locally-...Read More >>

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#4
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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#5
R
Exceptional

based on 512+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Long Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2815544 Verify

About RDU Delivered

RDU Delivered is a professional moving and relocation company that has been in business since 2013. They specialize in long distance moves a...Read More >>

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Relocating from Durham to Los Angeles Neighborhood Guide

When relocating from one city to another, understanding your new environment is crucial. This guide is designed to help you transition by comparing the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Los Angeles, CA . By mirroring Durham’s neighborhoods with those in Los Angeles, we offer you a familiar baseline, making the unknown feel a bit more like home.

DurhamLos Angeles
TreyburnPorter Ranch

Quiet, suburban feel

Trinity ParkLos Feliz

Historic homes, artistic vibe

Old West DurhamSilver Lake

Hipster-friendly, indie businesses

Hope ValleyBeverly Grove

Upscale, great amenities

Downtown DurhamDowntown LA

Urban living, cultural hub

BrightleafArts District

Trendy, vibrant arts scene

WoodcroftStudio City

Family-friendly, nice parks

American Tobacco DistrictHistoric Core

Revitalized, entertainment-focused

RockwoodEcho Park

Diverse, community-oriented

Ninth StreetAbbot Kinney

Boutique shopping, eclectic eateries

In transitioning from Durham to Los Angeles, you'll notice parallels that make each relocation smoother. For instance, the arts and indie vibe of Old West Durham finds its match in Silver Lake, renowned for its creative community and independent businesses, like the Sunset Junction Coffee Shop. Transitioning from the historic charm of Trinity Park, you'll discover Los Feliz, where venues like the Vista Theater blend history with modern culture. For those who enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere of Woodcroft, Studio City offers a similar environment with numerous parks and a welcoming community, making spots like Universal Studios Hollywood a great weekend destination. This guide ensures you can find a piece of Durham in Los Angeles, turning an unfamiliar city into a new home.

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Things to Do in Los Angeles

  • Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Explore LACMA's art collections
  • Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
  • Walk Santa Monica Pier
  • Experience Disneyland
  • Hike in Eaton Canyon

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

Moving from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA offers a unique opportunity to weigh the contrasting aspects of each city. This comparison aims to highlight the positives and negatives of such a relocation, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding to make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller City Vibe
  • Fewer Job Opportunities
  • Lower Diversity
  • Less Entertainment
  • Minimal Public Transit
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Vibrant City Life
  • More Job Opportunities
  • Higher Diversity
  • World-class Entertainment
  • Extensive Public Transit
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Less Personal
  • Urban Environment
  • Noisier Nights
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • Less Traffic
  • Community Feel
  • Greener Spaces
  • Quieter Nights

While Los Angeles provides wider opportunities for entertainment and career, places like Griffith Observatory offer iconic sights with a starry backdrop unlike any other. Meanwhile, Durham's lush parks, such as the Durham Central Park, present a tranquil escape from city life. However, LA's diverse food scene, with areas like Little Ethiopia, can introduce you to flavors from around the globe. Each city has its unique character; Durham might offer a serene, tight-knit community experience, whereas Los Angeles dazzles with its endless entertainments and vibrant lifestyle. The transition from Durham to LA means trading the quiet, spacious parks and the lower cost of living for a bustling, diverse metropolis with a higher living cost but richer job market and a tapestry of cultures.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

Food is a vibrant part of local culture and greatly influences what it's like to live in an area. Understanding this, we’re providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Los Angeles, so you can be well-informed about the culinary scene in your new city.

DurhamLos Angeles

Most iconic local food item

Carolina BBQStreet Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Pulled PorkKorean BBQ

Most popular street food item

Food Truck BurgersStreet Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ JackfruitVegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Poole's Diner
    2. Mateo Bar de Tapas
    3. Bull City Burger and Brewery
    1. Howlin' Ray's
    2. Gjelina
    3. Bestia

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

810

Foodie Scene

710

Vegan Friendly

610

In Durham, you'll find a rich tradition of Carolina BBQ, with iconic spots like Mateo Bar de Tapas blending local ingredients with international flavors. Meanwhile, Los Angeles boasts a diverse culinary scene, where you can enjoy authentic street tacos in neighborhoods like Echo Park or innovative vegan dishes in West Hollywood. Los Angeles is also renowned for its food truck culture, providing an eclectic array of cuisines from Korean BBQ at Howlin' Ray's to gourmet vegan options citywide, reflecting the city's high score for foodie scene and vegan friendliness.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

Understanding the significance of dining out as part of feeling at home in a new city, this chart aims to bridge the culinary gap for those moving from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA through restaurant comparison. Whether you're craving high-end cuisine or casual comfort food, we've got you covered in finding your next favorite eatery.

Nana'sProvidence

Both offer a fine dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.

Pizzeria ToroPizzana

Neapolitan pizzas with a modern twist, capturing the essence of artisanal Italian baking.

Mateo Bar de TapasThe Bazaar by José Andrés

A broad selection of Spanish-style small plates in an upscale setting.

Durham Food HallGrand Central Market

A bustling marketplace offering a variety of culinary options from local vendors.

Bull City Burger and BreweryFather's Office

Gourmet burgers and craft beers, with a focus on quality ingredients and unique flavors.

Backyard BBQ PitBludso's Bar & Que

Authentic, slow-cooked barbecue that captures the essence of American BBQ traditions.

ToastRepublique

Both are known for their exceptional sandwiches and a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenCafé Stella

European-style café with a diverse menu that includes freshly baked goods and hearty meals.

Saltbox Seafood JointConnie and Ted's

Fresh seafood offerings that highlight the best of what the coast has to offer.

The ParlourSalt & Straw

Creative and high-quality ice cream flavors that go beyond the ordinary.

Discovering culinary gems like Pizzana in Los Angeles will ease the transition for devotees of Pizzeria Toro in Durham, with both establishments prizing the integrity of Neapolitan pizza traditions while embracing local palates. Those who frequented Durham Food Hall will find a familiar vibrancy and diversity at Grand Central Market, where the essence of a community culinary hub is alive and well, offering an array of options from mouth-watering tacos to exotic spices. The shift from the comforting, slow-cooked flavors of Saltbox Seafood Joint to the fresh, sea-to-table offerings at Connie and Ted's mirrors a coastal transition, yet continues to highlight the universal love for high-quality, fresh seafood. Navigating the expansive Los Angeles food scene becomes an exciting adventure, bridging the comfort of old favorites with the thrill of new discoveries.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

Real estate is a pivotal component of relocation. Understanding how Durham and Los Angeles measure up can significantly influence your decision. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle differences to ensure you make an informed choice.

Comparing housing in Durham and Los Angeles uncovers stark contrasts. In Durham, affordability reigns with median home prices and rent significantly lower than in Los Angeles. However, Los Angeles compensates with its vibrant urban lifestyle and diverse architectural beauty, ranging from modern designs to charming Spanish Revival homes. The difference in walkability and bikeability scores highlights Los Angeles’s more pedestrian-friendly environment, offering easier access to amenities and entertainment. The city's allure is further emphasized by real estate listings that often boast proximity to iconic entertainment venues and serene ocean views, in contrast to Durham's emphasis on tranquil neighborhoods and spacious yards.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.

2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.

3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

Moving across the country from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA introduces not just a change of scenery, but a significant shift in climate. Understanding how the weather will change can help you prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition. Here's how the weather compares.

Summer icon
89/68

Durham, NC

84/64

Los Angeles, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

68/48

Los Angeles, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Durham, NC

15

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

0

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When relocating from Durham to Los Angeles, you'll experience more sunny days annually and milder winters, but also less humidity. The stark difference in natural disasters, such as Durham's susceptibility to hurricanes versus Los Angeles's frequent earthquakes and wildfires, is crucial to note for safety and insurance considerations. Additionally, while both areas suffer from unique top seasonal allergies, the persistently high UV index in Los Angeles underscores the importance of regular sunscreen application to protect your skin year-round.

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

When planning a move from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA, it's vital to grasp how the cost of living, average income, and taxes in Durham and Los Angeles will affect your finances. This comparison illuminates these differences to help ease your transition.

In moving from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA, you'll face several financial and economic adjustments. Despite a similar average household income in both cities, Los Angeles has a significantly higher cost of living, primarily driven by housing costs. Sales and state income taxes are also higher in California, which could impact your net income. However, despite its higher expense, Los Angeles boasts a vibrant economy, with leading industries in entertainment, technology, and manufacturing, offering diverse employment opportunities. Considering these factors can help you prepare financially for your move and understand the economic landscape of your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Durham, NC and Los Angeles, CA

When considering a move from Durham, NC, to Los Angeles, CA, it's beneficial to grasp a quick snapshot of the local atmosphere you're entering. This comparison will focus on the politics between Durham & Los Angeles , offering a glance at the political and religious makeup of each city's residents.

DurhamLos Angeles

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Progressive leadership, active grassroots movementsProgressive leadership, strong union involvement

Religion

Diverse; strong Christian base with growing non-Christian communitiesHighly diverse; substantial communities across different faiths

In both Durham and Los Angeles, you'll find a liberal political landscape, but the flavor of local politics can vary. Durham is known for its progressive leadership and a community that supports grassroots movements, reflecting in policies and city initiatives. On the other hand, Los Angeles combines its progressive leadership with strong union involvement, influencing not just local but state and national politics as well. The religious tapestry of both cities is rich and diverse, accommodating a wide range of faiths and belief systems. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of each city, providing you with opportunities to explore and engage with a variety of communities and experiences as you settle into your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Durham to Los Angeles

Moving from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA brings new adventures, including a shift in daily commutes. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Durham & Los Angeles provides insights into what you can expect when navigating these cities, ensuring a smoother transition into your new urban life.

DurhamLos Angeles
2430

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

48

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

36

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, but difficult

Can you get by without car?

In Durham, you might find traffic less of an issue with an average commute time of around 24 minutes and lower congestion levels. However, public transportation options are not as robust, making car dependence quite high. In contrast, Los Angeles presents more of a challenge in daily commutes, with higher traffic congestion levels and longer average commute times. While public transit is more available in Los Angeles, navigating the city without a car is still a daunting task for many, especially those living or working outside of the more densely populated areas or major transit routes.

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