Moving from Durham to San Francisco?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Durham to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the academic and historic charm of Durham to the innovative heart of Silicon Valley represents an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. You're trading Bull City's laid-back vibes for San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate views and bustling tech hubs. Recognizing the importance of this significant transition, it's crucial you entrust your move to professional movers we've rigorously evaluated to ensure your journey from coast to coast is in the most reliable hands.

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

5 Best Durham to San Francisco 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

Location DotEl Sobrante, CA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
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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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#3
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

Location DotSan Bruno, CA
GearLocal moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
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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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
top ranked movers in raleigh 2022 athens moving experts image
#5
RDU Delivered Logo
Exceptional

based on 512+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearLong Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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 San Francisco Neighborhood Guide

Comparing neighborhoods between cities can be a powerful tool in making a new place feel like home. This guide uses Durham, NC & San Francisco, CA comparison of the local neighborhoods to help you find your new favorite area based on what you love about your current city. Whether you're searching for vibrant nightlife, serene parks, or historic charm, we've got you covered.

DurhamSan Francisco
Downtown DurhamSoMa

Bustling tech hub, vibrant nightlife

TreyburnSea Cliff

Exclusive, picturesque views

Trinity ParkHaight-Ashbury

Historic, diverse community vibes

Old West DurhamThe Mission

Eclectic mix of dining & culture

Hope ValleyPacific Heights

Upscale homes, quiet streets

American Tobacco DistrictEmbarcadero

Waterfront views, food & entertainment

BrightleafNorth Beach

Historic, lively culinary scene

WoodcroftInner Sunset

Family-friendly, great parks

RockwoodCole Valley

Quaint, with a small-town feel

Watts-HillandaleNoe Valley

Peaceful, community-oriented

While each neighborhood in Durham and San Francisco has its unique charm, several stand out for their direct parallels. For instance, both the American Tobacco District in Durham and the Embarcadero in San Francisco offer waterfront dining and entertainment, creating vibrant areas for locals and visitors alike. If you're drawn to the historic and diverse vibe of Trinity Park, you might find Haight-Ashbury's blend of history, diversity, and community-oriented spaces equally appealing. Lastly, those who appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and green spaces of Woodcroft will likely enjoy the Inner Sunset's plethora of parks, including the nearby Golden Gate Park, and its assortment of family-friendly restaurants and businesses.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to San Francisco

Moving across the country offers both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Durham, NC to San Francisco, CA . By comparing the contrasting aspects, you can make a well-informed decision on whether this significant life change aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Humid Summers
  • More affordable housing
  • Smaller job market
  • Limited public transportation
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Mild climate
  • Higher cost of living
  • Expansive job opportunities
  • Extensive public transit
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Expensive housing
  • Faster pace of life
  • Smaller living spaces
  • More impersonal
  • Scarce parking
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Relaxed pace of life
  • Spacious living options
  • Local community feel
  • Ample parking

Opting to move from Durham, NC, to San Francisco, CA, bears significant lifestyle and financial implications. The weather in San Francisco is milder, offering a respite from Durham's humid summers, but this comes with a higher cost of living, notably in housing. San Francisco's bustling economy in tech and startups presents more job opportunities compared to Durham's smaller market. However, the Bay Area's richness in cultural activities, like visiting the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, exploring the diverse neighborhoods like the Mission District with its vibrant street murals and bustling markets such as the Ferry Building Marketplace, or enjoying the outdoors in Golden Gate Park, significantly enhances living experiences. Deciding on this move means weighing these factors carefully against your personal priorities and lifestyle preferences.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Durham to San Francisco

Understanding local cuisine is crucial to getting the real taste of a place's culture. In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and San Francisco, CA to better inform you about the food scene in your new city.

DurhamSan Francisco

Most iconic local food item

Pulled pork BBQ
Sourdough bread

Most popular meat dish

North Carolina BBQ ribs
Seafood Cioppino

Most popular street food item

Fried chicken biscuits
Mission Burrito

Most popular vegan food

Barbecue jackfruit
Vegan ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Poole's Diner
  • Nana's Restaurant
  • Dame's Chicken & Waffles
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • The Slanted Door

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

8
10

Vegan Friendly

7
9

Upon moving to San Francisco, you'll find an impressively diverse and health-conscious food scene. Neighborhoods like the Mission District are famous for their street food, particularly the Mission Burrito, a must-try local classic. San Francisco is also renowned for its sourdough bread, with historic spots like Tartine Bakery offering some of the best in the city. Vegan and vegetarian options are abundant and innovative, with places like The Slanted Door providing plant-based dishes that don't compromise on flavor. The high rating in the foodie scene reflects San Francisco's commitment to quality, creativity, and variety in its culinary offerings.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Durham to San Francisco

Finding a new favorite eatery can turn a city into a home. This restaurant comparison from Durham to San Francisco aims to ease your transition by matching your current favorites with future go-tos. Let the flavors guide you home.

Mothers & Sons TrattoriaSeven Hills

Refined Italian dishes in a cozy setting, reminiscent of Durham's love for European cuisine.

Pizzeria ToroTony’s Pizza Napoletana

Award-winning spot offering a similar devotion to high-quality, wood-fired pizzas.

Mateo Bar de TapasCoqueta

A vibrant selection of Spanish tapas and cocktails that channels Mateo’s energetic social dining experience.

Bull City Burger and BreweryGott’s Roadside

Both spots celebrate the art of the burger with a commitment to local ingredients and craft brews.

DashiRamenwell

Offering inventive ramen with deep flavors, matching Dashi’s approach to Japanese comfort food.

Backyard BBQ Pit4505 Burgers & BBQ

A similar dedication to smoked meats and barbecue traditions with a West Coast twist.

The PitSmokestack at Magnolia Brewing

Both pride themselves on regional BBQ styles, with a refined selection of beers.

NanaSteakHarris’ Steakhouse

An institution of steak craftmanship offering a parallel fine dining experience to NanaSteak’s elegance.

LanternState Bird Provisions

Creative Asian American cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, akin to Lantern’s philosophy.

Elmo's DinerDottie’s True Blue Café

A casual, comfort food haven reminiscent of Elmo’s, perfect for breakfast or a homey meal.

Upon moving to San Francisco, your culinary explorations don't have to start from scratch. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, with its diverse menu of wood-fired pizzas, mirrors the level of craftsmanship and dedication to quality ingredients that you cherished at Pizzeria Toro. For those who relish in the comforting embrace of ramen, Ramenwell stands as a beacon for intricate bowls of warmth and flavor, echoing Dashi’s crafted approach to noodly bliss. Those longing for the convivial tapas atmosphere of Mateo Bar de Tapas will find solace at Coqueta, where every bite and sip transport your senses to the vibrant streets of Spain, all while encapsulating the communal dining spirit found in Durham’s food scene.

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

Real estate plays a pivotal role in relocating, highlighting the importance of understanding how Durham and San Francisco compare in terms of housing costs, styles, and livability can notably impact your moving decisions.

In comparing Durham and San Francisco, the disparity in housing costs is immediately evident, with San Francisco's median home price and rent significantly outpacing those in Durham. This reflects the high demand and limited space in one of America's most densely populated cities. San Francisco's architecture is famed for its picturesque Victorian homes and sleek, modern buildings, offering a visual feast that differs from Durham's more traditional Colonial and Craftsman styles. The lifestyle in San Francisco is markedly more urban, underscored by its superior walkability and bikeability scores, allowing residents to enjoy a highly accessible city full of vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks such as SFMOMA and Ferry Building Marketplace, contrasting with the spacious, quiet neighborhoods prevalent in Durham.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Durham to San Francisco

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This guide provides insights into weather differences between Durham, NC, and San Francisco, CA, helping you adjust to your new environment more comfortably.

Summer icon
89/71

Durham, NC

70/55

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/32

Durham, NC

57/46

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Durham, NC

23

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Durham, NC

0

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Durham enjoys hotter summers and experiences a true four-season climate, San Francisco offers a mild, more stable climate year-round. Notably, Durham experiences more extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, in contrast to San Francisco's higher earthquake risk. Additionally, those moving can expect fewer rainy days in San Francisco but might find its higher humidity and prevalent fog a unique adjustment. San Francisco’s superior air quality and lower annual snowfall also contribute to a distinct living experience, split by clear, cool, and less humid conditions.

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

When making the big move from Durham, NC to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be impacted. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the financial differences between Durham and San Francisco, covering various aspects of money and economy. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your new life.

Moving from Durham to San Francisco, prepare for a significant change in your financial lifestyle. San Francisco's higher average household income reflects its booming tech and finance industries, yet it's coupled with a cost of living index nearly double that of Durham. The stark contrast in homelessness rates is a critical social issue in San Francisco, despite its affluence. Understanding these nuances and planning accordingly will be key to a smooth transition into your new city.

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

This snapshot offers a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between Durham and San Francisco . It serves to provide you with an at-a-glance understanding of what distinguishes the communities in these two cities.

DurhamSan Francisco

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive policies, especially on social issuesStrong focus on progressive politics, environmental issues, and equality

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Christian populationHighly diverse; less religious overall compared to national average

When comparing Durham to San Francisco, it's important to note both cities have a strong liberal and Democratic leaning, shaping their vibrant political landscapes. The emphasis on progressive policies in local governance in Durham finds a parallel in San Francisco's historic focus on progressive politics, environmental sustainability, and equality. Religious diversity is a hallmark in both locales; however, Durham tends to have a more pronounced Christian demographic, whereas San Francisco boasts a vast array of religious practices but is generally less religious in terms of adherence to any particular faith. This reflection of differing cultures, embedded in the political and religious fabrics of these cities, enriches the lived experiences of their residents.

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

Moving from Durham, NC to San Francisco, CA offers a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This comparison aims to provide insight into what one might expect in terms of daily commute and traffic as they transition from the tree-lined streets of Durham to the hill-filled landscape of San Francisco.

DurhamSan Francisco
2434

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

38

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingYes

Can you get by without a car?

In San Francisco, the higher average commute time and level of traffic congestion reflect the city's dense urban environment. However, it compensates with an excellent public transit system, making it feasible to live without a car. This contrasts with Durham, where lower traffic congestion and shorter commute times come at the cost of limited public transit options, rendering a car nearly essential for daily travel. Relocating from Durham to San Francisco, you'll find the shift towards relying on public transit or other forms of transportation like biking or walking a significant change, offering both challenges and opportunities to explore the city in new ways.

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