Best Raleigh to San Jose Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Raleigh to San Jose Movers

Moving from the City of Oaks to the Capital of Silicon Valley is an adventure, signaling a significant life change that's both thrilling and complex. You're bidding farewell to Raleigh's lush landscapes and warm, southern charm to embrace San Jose's innovative spirit and tech-savvy community. Given the distance and the life transition involved, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we come in, ensuring you have the best support for this major move.

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Best Raleigh to San Jose Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.42NRActiveContact
D&L Movers9.34A+ActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.26NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to San Jose Moving Companies

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
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
1
D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
2
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 12/17/2024)

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
3
Careful Movers Logo
Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
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. Th...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA , it helps to find familiar ground. This comparison is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We've matched top neighborhoods in Raleigh with their closest counterparts in San Jose, offering a sense of home in a new city.

RaleighSan JoseHow They're Similar
North HillsSantana RowVibrant shopping and dining scene
Five PointsWillow GlenCommunity-oriented with charming homes
Boylan HeightsThe AlamedaHistoric with a strong community vibe
Cameron VillageDowntown San JoseUrban living with retail and restaurants
Oberlin VillageRose GardenHistorical significance with beautiful gardens
MordecaiJapantownRich history and cultural depth
Fayetteville StreetSanta Clara StreetBustling urban core with nightlife
Brier CreekSouth San JoseSuburban with ample amenities
OakwoodShasta Hanchett ParkHistoric homes with a tight-knit community
Glenwood SouthSoFA DistrictTrendy arts scene and nightlife

If the eclectic shops and local eateries of Five Points have become your go-to, then you'll enjoy the small-town charm of Willow Glen, where community events fill the calendar. For those who have enjoyed the mix of history and culture in Mordecai, San Jose's Japantown will enamor you with its blend of historical landmarks and vibrant cultural festivals. If the urban lifestyle of Glenwood South has been to your taste, the SoFA District in San Jose mirrors this with its trendy nightlife and arts scene, while venues like the San Jose Museum of Art punctuate the cultural landscape.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to San Jose

Moving from one city to another can be a significant change, which is why it's important to weigh all factors carefully. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA, helping you make an informed decision on whether this move is right for you.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower avg. salary
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Lower cost of living
  • Fewer cultural attractions
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher avg. salary
  • More tech opportunities
  • Better weather
  • More cultural attractions
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less green space
  • More crowded
  • Worse traffic conditions
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • More green spaces
  • Friendly community
  • Better traffic conditions

When considering the move from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA, the details matter. For job seekers in technology, San Jose offers unparalleled opportunities with its dense concentration of tech firms, including giants like Apple, Google, and Facebook. Despite the higher cost of living, San Jose's weather is a significant draw, offering mild, sunny days almost year-round. Conversely, Raleigh boasts lower living expenses and a relaxed pace of life, making it ideal for those prioritizing affordability and smaller community vibes. While San Jose does have fewer green spaces than Raleigh, it compensates with remarkable cultural attractions like the San Jose Museum of Art and the vibrant culinary scene around Downtown San Jose. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal and professional priorities, evaluating each city's unique offerings against your lifestyle preferences.

Raleigh vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & San Jose, illustrating the profound role food plays in defining local culture and what living in each area could be like. Understand the culinary scene you're moving into, ensuring your palate is as prepared as your packing list.

RaleighSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemNorth Carolina BBQPho
Most popular meat dishPulled porkCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegetable Tofu Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Santouka Ramen
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Raleigh embraces its southern roots with iconic BBQ and pulled pork being local staples, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a more international flavor; Pho and Carne Asada are among its most popular dishes. San Jose boasts a vibrant food truck scene, especially around Downtown and SoFA District, reflecting its diverse culinary scene. Contrastingly, Raleigh offers a unique blend of traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist, readily available in places like The Pit and Brewery Bhavana. For those seeking vegan options, both cities provide a plethora of choices, but San Jose's Vegetable Tofu Pho from places like Santouka Ramen highlights its slight edge in catering to plant-based diets.

Raleigh vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison between Raleigh and San Jose will guide your culinary exploration, transforming Raleigh's familiar tastes into new favorites in San Jose . Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences, casual bites, or iconic local dishes, this chart aims to bridge the gap and make your transition flavorful and exciting.

RaleighSan JoseWhat You'll Love
Bida MandaElyse RestaurantExquisite French Vietnamese cuisine, offering a cultural fusion similar to Bida Manda’s Laotian charm.
Poole's DinerOrchard City KitchenAn innovative approach to American comfort food, parallels Poole’s Diner’s modern take on classic dishes.
Brewery BhavanaGood Karma Vegan CaféBoth offer a unique blend of ambiance and craft beers, with Good Karma adding a vegan twist.
Crawford and SonPlumed HorseOffers a sophisticated dining experience with an emphasis on innovation, reflective of Crawford and Son’s culinary excellence.
GarlandAdegaSharing Garland's passion for vibrant, flavor-packed dishes with its focus on Portuguese cuisine.
The PitSmoking Pig BBQFor a deeply satisfying barbecue experience that captures the essence of The Pit’s southern charm.
Neomonde MediterraneanDishDashA celebration of Middle Eastern flavors that offers a dining experience akin to Neomonde’s beloved dishes.
Angus BarnAlexander’s SteakhouseA high-end steak experience that closely mirrors Angus Barn’s legendary steaks and service.
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyBack A YardCaribbean flavors meet southern fried chicken, emulating Beasley’s unique taste profile.
O-Ku SushiMinato Japanese RestaurantAuthentic Japanese dining that captures O-Ku Sushi’s commitment to fresh, quality seafood.

Transitioning from the diverse culinary landscape of Raleigh to the innovative food scene in San Jose is an adventure. For example, if you admire the unique Laotian dishes at Bida Manda, you'll find a kindred spirit in Elyse Restaurant, where French Vietnamese culinary traditions are celebrated with equal fervor. Similarly, fans of Garland's eclectic menu will discover a new love in Adega, where the chef's dedication to Portuguese cuisine brings a fresh yet familiar twist to your taste buds. And for those who can’t imagine weekends without The Pit’s authentic Southern barbecue, Smoking Pig BBQ in San Jose awaits with open arms and smoked meats that pay homage to your Raleigh favorite, ensuring your culinary journey feels both new and nostalgically comforting.

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Ready to start your move?

Raleigh vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate plays a crucial role in your decision-making process. Understanding how Raleigh, NC and San Jose, CA compare in key housing aspects can significantly influence your choice. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost, style, and livability between these cities.

ComparisonRaleighSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanModern, Spanish Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, proximity to parksProximity to tech companies, sustainable features

The stark differences in the median home price and rent between Raleigh and San Jose reflect the broader cost of living and economic landscape of these regions. Raleigh's housing market offers more budget-friendly options, with prevailing Colonial and Craftsman architecture, complementing its suburban feel and green spaces. Conversely, San Jose's housing market is markedly pricier, catering to its high-income tech workforce with modern and Spanish Revival styles. This urban center prides itself on walkability, bikeability, and a strong urban lifestyle, closely tied to its role as a tech hub. The emphasis on proximity to tech companies and sustainable features in San Jose's real estate listings underscores the city's commitment to innovation and environmental consciousness.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Raleigh vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the climate and weather conditions will change. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Raleigh, NC, and San Jose, CA , to better prepare you for your new environment. Knowing what to expect can help you adjust more comfortably to your new home.

Summer icon
89°F / 68°F

Raleigh, NC

82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51°F / 32°F

Raleigh, NC

60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43"

Raleigh, NC

15.5"

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4"

Raleigh, NC

0"

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRaleighSan Jose
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Raleigh to San Jose, you can look forward to more sunny days and milder winters. San Jose enjoys over 50 more days of sunshine annually than Raleigh, and its winters are significantly warmer, with average lows not dropping below freezing as they often do in Raleigh. This difference can notably reduce the need for heavy winter clothing and heating. Additionally, San Jose's lower average annual humidity and rainfall make it a more comfortable environment for those sensitive to humidity and mold. However, it's important to note the higher average UV index in San Jose, meaning you'll need to be vigilant about sun protection. The drastic reduction in annual rainfall and complete absence of snow outline a significant change in lifestyle, possibly affecting everything from your wardrobe to your outdoor activities.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial differences between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison between Raleigh, NC, and San Jose, CA, will highlight the key economic factors, such as income, taxes, and living costs, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect money and finance-wise.

ComparisonRaleighSan Jose
Avg. Household Income$74,612$126,377
Cost of Living Index98.2156.1
State Income Tax5.259.3
Avg. Property Tax0.860.79
Avg. Sales Tax7.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceIncreasingHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessNoticeableSignificant

Moving from Raleigh to San Jose, you'll face a significant jump in the cost of living, reflected both in the index and average household income. Despite San Jose offering higher average income, it's crucial to consider the state's higher income and sales taxes, which might offset the income advantage to some extent. Moreover, while both cities champion the tech industry, San Jose's affluence and economic landscape are shaped by its prominent tech sector, indicating diverse job opportunities albeit with a higher living cost. Understanding these nuances will aid in a smoother financial transition.

Raleigh vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

In this brief overview, we're providing a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between Raleigh, NC, and San Jose, CA . This comparison aims to give you a glimpse into the cultural and societal landscapes you'll be transitioning between as you plan your move.

RaleighSan Jose
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate with a mix of liberal and conservative viewsLiberal, with progressive policies on housing and environment
ReligionChristianity predominates, diverse religious communitiesHigh religious diversity, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism

When moving from Raleigh to San Jose, you'll find that both cities have a Democratic majority, though San Jose is known for its stronger liberal tilt, particularly in its progressive stances on various social issues. Raleigh presents a more balanced political atmosphere, embodying a blend of both conservative and liberal views. This contrast is reflective of the broader state political climates, with North Carolina having a history of fluctuating political leanings and California being a stronghold for the Democratic party. On the religious front, while Christianity is the predominant faith in both cities, San Jose stands out for its higher religious diversity, hosting vibrant Buddhist, Hindu, and other religious communities alongside its Christian population. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of San Jose, offering newcomers a wide array of cultural and religious experiences.

Raleigh vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA, it's vital to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & San Jose will give you a clearer perspective.

ComparisonRaleighSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, but it's challenging

In Raleigh, the average commute time is slightly less than in San Jose, which can be advantageous for those looking to save time on their daily travels. However, Raleigh scores lower in terms of public transit availability, indicating a higher dependence on personal vehicles. In contrast, San Jose offers better public transit options, making it somewhat more feasible to live without a car, though it still presents its challenges given its higher traffic congestion score. Understanding these dynamics can help you plan your daily commute more effectively, whether it's finding the best routes, adjusting travel times, or considering alternative transportation methods in your new city.

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