Moving from Raleigh to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Oakland Movers

Moving from city to city embodies an exciting adventure and a significant life change. Leaving behind Raleigh's oak-lined charm for Oakland's vibrant, eclectic rhythm known as the "Bright Side of the Bay" marks a bold leap into a diverse, dynamic environment. Understanding the pivotal role of trusted and reliable professional movers in ensuring a smooth transition, we at Great Guys Moving prioritize finding you the best movers for this long distance move, making your journey not just about changing locations but starting a new chapter with confidence and peace of mind.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Oakland 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
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#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
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#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 Raleigh to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

If you're planning a move and are looking for a sense of familiarity in your new city, understanding how neighborhoods align can be a great start. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Oakland, CA, aimed at helping you find your new favorite spot by drawing parallels with what you already know and appreciate.

RaleighOakland
Cameron VillageRockridge

Vibrant shopping & dining

Five PointsPiedmont Avenue

Historic charm, local shops

North HillsTemescal

Family-friendly, mixed-use area

Boylan HeightsAdams Point

Quaint, with eclectic homes

Warehouse DistrictJack London District

Industrial chic, waterfront views

Historic OakwoodRockridge

Elegant homes, leafy streets

Glenwood SouthUptown

Energetic nightlife, arts scene

Brier CreekMontclair

Suburban feel, good amenities

Mordecia PlaceGrand Lake

Historic homes, vibrant markets

Fayetteville StreetOld Oakland

Charming architecture, boutique shops

When comparing neighborhoods between cities, specifics like local parks, restaurants, and sights play a significant role. For instance, the vibrant shopping and dining scene of Cameron Village finds its mirror in Rockridge, Oakland, where bustling streets are lined with unique boutiques and eateries like Wood Tavern. Meanwhile, the industrial chic of Raleigh's Warehouse District translates well to the Jack London District in Oakland, where warehouses have been repurposed into trendy lofts and waterfront bars. If the historic charm and local shops of Five Points captivated you, Piedmont Avenue will surely delight with landmarks like the Fenton's Creamery, adding to that neighborhood's appeal. This guide not only contrasts residential vibes but also highlights overlapping cultural and community-focused similarities that make transitioning to a new city a bit easier for you.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

Moving across the country presents an opportunity to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks in a major lifestyle change. This guide offers a balanced look at relocating from Raleigh, NC to Oakland, CA, providing a comprehensive view of what's to gain and what's to give up. Through our charts, we aim to reflect an honest comparison of the two cities, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of such a move.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Smaller job market
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower walkability
  • Fewer cultural venues
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Larger job market
  • Rich culinary scene
  • High walkability
  • Progressive environment
  • Vibrant cultural landscape
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Compact living spaces
  • Urban environment
  • Noisier city life
  • More transient population
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Spacious living
  • Greener surroundings
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Closer community feel

While relocating from Raleigh to Oakland, you're trading the spacious suburban landscapes and quieter life for a bustling urban environment teeming with culture and diversity. Oakland's rich culinary scene boasts an array of dining options from Commis, a Michelin-starred restaurant, to vibrant food markets like Chop Bar. You'll stroll through renowned cultural venues such as the Oakland Museum of California and experience the city's deep commitment to arts and innovation. Although the cost of living is higher, the trade-offs include access to a larger job market in the thriving tech industry and participation in a socially progressive environment, steps away from the heart of San Francisco. Despite smaller living spaces, the high walkability and wealth of parks, like the picturesque Lake Merritt, offer a new world of urban exploration and community engagement.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh, NC, and Oakland, CA, showcasing how food reflects the local culture and what living in these areas might taste like. Knowing about the food scene where you're moving can help you feel more at home.

RaleighOakland

Most iconic local food item

North Carolina BBQ
California Burrito

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork
Oakland-style BBQ

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Barbecue
Vegan Soul Food

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Ashley Christensen's Poole's Diner
  • The Pit
  • Bida Manda
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Shakewell
  • Commis

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

6
9

In Raleigh, the barbecue is legendary, with places like The Pit offering traditional pulled pork that captures the essence of the area's love for smoky flavors. On the west coast, Oakland introduces you to a vibrant vegan scene, with establishments like Vegan Soul Food showcasing how plant-based cuisine can be both delicious and soul-satisfying. This city's diverse culinary scene is not just limited to American cuisine, as reflected in its street food, with tacos being a staple everyone must try. Exploring neighborhoods like Temescal in Oakland will offer you a glimpse into the city's foodie scene, known for its eclectic mix of eateries and food trucks that cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary preferences.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

Seeking comfort in the familiar flavors of your hometown can be a bridge to making a new city feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Raleigh to their counterparts in Oakland is crafted to help you transition smoothly by discovering your next go-to spots for exceptional dining.

Beasley's Chicken + HoneyBrown Sugar Kitchen

Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist

Poole's DinerCommis

High-end dining, focusing on intricate dishes and local ingredients

Bida MandaChampa Garden

Diverse Laotian dishes offering a burst of Southeast Asian flavors

Brewery BhavanaTemescal Brewing

Offers a relaxed setting with innovative beers and community focus

GarlandShakewell

Mediterranean flair with a touch of local Oakland taste

Ashley Christensen RestaurantsWood Tavern

Casual yet upscale dining, with a focus on American cuisine

The PitEverett and Jones BBQ

Authentic BBQ with deep roots and a wide variety of sauces

Crawford and SonDuende

Spanish-inspired dishes in an artsy and vibrant atmosphere

Death & TaxesAgave Uptown

Oaxacan specialties bringing a fiery taste to Oakland

CentroXolo

A modern twist on traditional Mexican street food

Exploring the similarities between Raleigh and Oakland's dining venues offers a chance to appreciate how local chefs interpret and present culinary delights. For instance, while Beasley's Chicken + Honey provides a Southern comfort food experience in Raleigh, Oakland's Brown Sugar Kitchen offers a West Coast interpretation of soul food, emphasizing organic and locally sourced ingredients. Similarly, Brewery Bhavana's integration of brewery, flower shop, and library provides a unique dining atmosphere that you can find reflected in the community focus and innovative spirit of Temescal Brewing. Whether you're in the mood for authentic BBQ or crave a taste of Southeast Asian cuisine, these Oakland restaurants stand ready to offer memorable flavors and experiences that echo the quality and diversity of Raleigh's culinary scene.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market of your future home is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyles between Raleigh, NC and Oakland, CA, offering insights to help you make an informed decision.

Moving from Raleigh to Oakland, you'll find stark contrasts in the housing market, beyond just the financial aspects. While the median home price in Oakland is nearly double that of Raleigh, it also offers a more urban lifestyle, with its higher walkability and bikeability scores. Oakland's architecture leans toward Victorian and Modern styles, reflecting its historic yet progressive nature. Additionally, real estate listings in Oakland often highlight eco-friendly features and the proximity to public transit, indicating a community mindful of sustainability and convenience. These contrasts extend to the living experience itself, where Oakland's denser urban fabric supports a vibrant, active lifestyle compared to the more suburban, spacious, and family-oriented environment of Raleigh.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your daily experience, particularly when it comes to weather. Understanding how the climate in Raleigh, NC compares to Oakland, CA will help you prepare for the environmental changes. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences and assist in your transition.

Summer icon
89/67

Raleigh, NC

72/56

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
52/32

Raleigh, NC

58/44

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Raleigh, NC

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Raleigh experiences hot summers and cold winters with a significant amount of humidity and annual rainfall, Oakland offers a more temperate climate with milder summers and winters, less humidity, and significantly more days of sunshine per year. The UV index in Oakland is slightly higher, reflecting its sunny disposition. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your lifestyle, wardrobe, and even your home's heating and cooling needs before moving. Notably, the natural disaster risks also shift from hurricanes and tornadoes in Raleigh to earthquakes and wildfires in Oakland, which might influence your emergency preparedness plans.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to provide you with a clear picture of how living in Raleigh, NC versus Oakland, CA might affect your wallet. Understanding the differences in cost of living , tax rates , and income levels can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Transitioning from Raleigh to Oakland comes with significant financial adjustments. The average household income in Oakland is higher, which is beneficial, but this is accompanied by a cost of living index substantially above the national average. Particularly noteworthy are the variances in state income tax and sales tax, both considerably higher in Oakland, which can impact your take-home pay and spending. Oakland’s affluence level is described as high, yet it also faces a significant homelessness issue, reflecting the city's wide economic disparities. Understanding these economic factors is essential for a smooth transition to your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Raleigh, NC and Oakland, CA

If you're considering a move from Raleigh, NC, to Oakland, CA, it's important to understand how your new community operates. This quick glance offers insight into the political and religious makeup of the residents comparing Raleigh & Oakland , so you can better anticipate the cultural changes ahead.

RaleighOakland

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderately progressive with a focus on business and growthHighly progressive with strong activism in social and environmental issues

Religion

Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faithsDiverse; Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and non-religious or spiritual beliefs

In Raleigh, you might have noticed a balanced political climate with a slight Democratic lean, reflecting its mix of urban innovation and southern roots. This contrasts with Oakland's deeply progressive stance, where social and environmental activism not only shape local policies but also community life. Religion in Raleigh tends to be predominantly Christian, including a variety of denominations, while Oakland showcases a mosaic of religious beliefs, mirroring its celebrated diversity. Understanding these dynamics can help you smoothly transition into your new surroundings.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Oakland

Moving from Raleigh, NC, to Oakland, CA, presents a significant shift in daily life, especially when it comes to commuting. Understanding how these changes might affect your daily routine is crucial. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Oakland to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in your new city.

RaleighOakland
2532

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

38

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingEasier

Can you get by without car?

In Raleigh, you might find that navigating the city without a car is quite difficult, given the limited availability of public transit options. The average commute time is relatively short, and traffic congestion is less intense compared to Oakland. However, once you move to Oakland, you're likely to see an increase in both your average commute time and the level of traffic congestion. Thankfully, this is mitigated by the superior availability of public transit options in Oakland, making it easier to get by without a car. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and buses provide extensive coverage, connecting Oakland to San Francisco and other nearby cities, which is a substantial advantage for daily commuting.

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