Best Raleigh to Oakland Movers and Practical 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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Best Raleigh to Oakland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Oakland Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,596+ data points

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved108,816 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Raleigh vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

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.

RaleighOaklandHow They're Similar
Cameron VillageRockridgeVibrant shopping & dining
Five PointsPiedmont AvenueHistoric charm, local shops
North HillsTemescalFamily-friendly, mixed-use area
Boylan HeightsAdams PointQuaint, with eclectic homes
Warehouse DistrictJack London DistrictIndustrial chic, waterfront views
Historic OakwoodRockridgeElegant homes, leafy streets
Glenwood SouthUptownEnergetic nightlife, arts scene
Brier CreekMontclairSuburban feel, good amenities
Mordecia PlaceGrand LakeHistoric homes, vibrant markets
Fayetteville StreetOld OaklandCharming 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

Ready to start your move?

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.

Raleigh vs. Oakland Food Guide

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 itemNorth Carolina BBQCalifornia Burrito
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkOakland-style BBQ
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan BarbecueVegan 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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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.

Raleigh vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

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.

RaleighOaklandWhat You'll Love
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyBrown Sugar KitchenSouthern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist
Poole's DinerCommisHigh-end dining, focusing on intricate dishes and local ingredients
Bida MandaChampa GardenDiverse Laotian dishes offering a burst of Southeast Asian flavors
Brewery BhavanaTemescal BrewingOffers a relaxed setting with innovative beers and community focus
GarlandShakewellMediterranean flair with a touch of local Oakland taste
Ashley Christensen RestaurantsWood TavernCasual yet upscale dining, with a focus on American cuisine
The PitEverett and Jones BBQAuthentic BBQ with deep roots and a wide variety of sauces
Crawford and SonDuendeSpanish-inspired dishes in an artsy and vibrant atmosphere
Death & TaxesAgave UptownOaxacan specialties bringing a fiery taste to Oakland
CentroXoloA 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?

Raleigh vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

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.

ComparisonRaleighOakland
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanVictorian, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, family-friendlyEco-friendly features, proximity to public transit

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.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Raleigh vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

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)

ComparisonRaleighOakland
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

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.

Ready to start your move?

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.

ComparisonRaleighOakland
Avg. Household Income$74,612$82,236
Cost of Living Index98.2139.1
State Income Tax5.259.3
Avg. Property Tax0.860.79
Avg. Sales Tax7.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Healthcare, Retail
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowerModerate
HomelessnessLowerHigh

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.

Raleigh vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

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-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressive with a focus on business and growthHighly progressive with strong activism in social and environmental issues
ReligionChristianity 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.

Raleigh vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

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.

ComparisonRaleighOakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2532
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

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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