Best Durham to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Durham to Washington Movers

Moving from Durham, the heart of academic brilliance and lush landscapes, to Washington DC, the bustling epicenter of politics and historical grandeur, marks not just a change in scenery but an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. You're not just switching postcodes; you're leaving behind the Bull City's laid-back charm for the Capital City's endless vibrancy. Given the significance of this long-distance move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this transition and are dedicated to offering you the best options, ensuring your move is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

North Carolina iconArrow iconDC icon

Best Durham to Washington Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Bookstore Movers9.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Mic's Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
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 Washington to Durham guide.

5 Best Durham to Washington Moving Companies

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

Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional9.60/10
based on 4,108+ data points

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
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
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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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.

Durham vs. Washington Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be a daunting task, especially when it's to a new city with unfamiliar neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of popular neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Washington DC, DC . This guide aims to help you find a neighborhood in Washington DC that closely mirrors your current locale in Durham, helping you feel right at home from day one.

DurhamWashingtonHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkDupont CircleHistoric, vibrant community life
Old West DurhamAdams MorganDiverse, active nightlife
Hope ValleyAmerican University ParkFamily-friendly, suburban feel
Watts Hospital-HillandaleCleveland ParkGreen spaces, quiet residential
WoodcroftPalisadesClose-knit community, nature trails
Downtown DurhamPenn QuarterArts, entertainment, and dining
BrightleafShawHistoric, with a strong sense of community
TreyburnGeorgetownUpscale, with a historic touch
Forest HillsCapitol HillHistoric homes, political hub
Ninth StreetU Street CorridorTrendy, culture-rich

For those accustomed to the energetic streets and diverse eateries of Old West Durham, Adams Morgan in Washington DC offers a seamless transition. Imagine strolling down 18th Street, lined with a mix of restaurants, bookstores, and music venues reminiscent of Ninth Street's eclectic vibe. Similarly, if the green, sprawling parks of Watts Hospital-Hillandale hold a special place in your heart, you'll find solace in the serene expanse of Rock Creek Park near Cleveland Park. Cleveland Park's quiet, leafy streets are an urban oasis, comparable to the tranquil ambience of Durham's suburban neighborhoods. Whether it's dining, entertainment, or a sense of community you're seeking, these neighborhood pairings aim to make your move to Washington DC a little less unknown and a lot more like home.

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Things to Do in Washington

  • Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.
  • Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
  • Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
  • Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
  • Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
  • Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
  • Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Washington

Moving from Durham, NC to Washington DC, DC is a significant life change. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation . We will examine how leaving Durham's unique charms behind might mean embracing new opportunities and experiences that only Washington DC can offer.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Close-knit community
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Extensive public transit
  • More job opportunities
  • Historical landmarks
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Higher cost of living
  • More crowded
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less personal feel
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Close-knit community

While Durham, NC, offers a more affordable cost of living and a smaller, community-focused environment, moving to Washington DC opens the door to a plethora of cultural and professional opportunities. For instance, DC's Smithsonian museums offer free, world-class educational experiences, a striking contrast to Durham’s more localized cultural sites. The extensive public transit system in DC, including the Metro, surpasses Durham’s, making commuting and exploring the city more accessible. Additionally, the job market in DC, particularly for those in public service, policy, and international affairs, tends to be more robust. Moreover, DC’s historical landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and vibrant neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill present unique experiences and community feels that are distinct from Durham's homely, tight-knit communities.

Durham vs. Washington Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC & Washington DC, DC, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the culture and lifestyle of an area. By reviewing these culinary distinctions, you're better prepared for what awaits in your new city.

DurhamWashington
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQHalf-smoke sausage
Most popular meat dishPulled porkMumbo sauce wings
Most popular street food itemHot dogsFood trucks variety
Most popular vegan foodBBQ jackfruitSeitan steaks
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nana's
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Dame's Chicken & Waffles
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose’s Luxury
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Both Durham and Washington DC offer diverse and rich culinary experiences reflective of their unique cultures. In Durham, the Carolina-style BBQ is a must-try, especially known for its tangy vinegar-based sauce, while Washington DC takes pride in its famous half-smoke sausages, often found at iconic eateries like Ben's Chili Bowl. For those seeking vegan offerings, Durham's BBQ jackfruit mirrors the region's barbecue love, whereas Washington DC's seitan steaks cater to a vegan palate without sacrificing flavor. Food trucks in Washington DC present a smorgasbord of street food items, ranging from international cuisines to local favorites, signaling a vibrant, ever-evolving food scene that's a significant step up from the more traditional Southern culinary staples found in Durham.

Durham vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison

As you prepare to make a new city your home, finding the places where you can enjoy memorable meals is essential. This restaurant comparison between Durham, NC, and Washington DC, DC, will guide you in discovering new favorite spots. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, foodie havens, or affordable eats, this comparison has got you covered.

DurhamWashingtonWhat You'll Love
Pizzeria ToroRose's LuxuryInnovative dishes in a cozy, upscale setting reminiscent of Pizzeria Toro's vibe
Mateo Bar de TapasBoqueriaAuthentic Spanish tapas bar offering a taste of Spain as Mateo Bar de Tapas does
Alley Twenty SixColumbia RoomCraft cocktails and small plates in an intimate setting akin to Alley Twenty Six
NanaSteakMétierFine dining with a focus on steak, offering a similar upscale experience to NanaSteak
Joe Van GoghFilter CoffeehouseCozy, independent coffee shop with a focus on high-quality beans like Joe Van Gogh
Bull City Burger and BreweryBluejacket BreweryA brewery with quality burgers and a similar dedication to craft beer
Dame's Chicken & WafflesFounding FarmersSouthern comfort food, including chicken & waffles, in a farm-to-table setting
Toast PaninotecaSundevichSandwich shop with globally inspired paninis, offering an experience like Toast Paninoteca
Foster's MarketGlen's Garden MarketDeli and market focusing on locally sourced products, similar to Foster's Market
The Saltbox Seafood JointWhaley'sSeafood-centric restaurant with a focus on fresh, local catch, much like The Saltbox Seafood Joint

For those who appreciate the nuances of craft cocktails alongside small plates, a move from Alley Twenty Six in Durham to Columbia Room in Washington DC won't disappoint. Both establishments create an ambiance perfect for intimate conversations or a casual evening with friends, showcasing their unique takes on mixology. Meanwhile, seafood lovers who frequented The Saltbox Seafood Joint for its fresh, local offerings will find solace in Whaley's in DC, where the commitment to sustainable seafood practices and the freshest products mirrors that of The Saltbox's approach. Whether it's the comfort of Southern dishes or the exploration of international flavors through sandwiches and coffee, these comparable spots in Washington DC ensure that new residents don't miss out on culinary experiences reminiscent of their Durham favorites.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate market between Durham, NC, and Washington DC, DC is crucial . This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing aspects including costs, architecture, walkability, and more, offering insight into what you might expect in each city.

ComparisonDurhamWashington
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, ColonialFederal, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet neighborhoodsProximity to public transport, vibrant neighborhoods

Comparing Durham and Washington DC, you'll find significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. Durham offers more affordable living with an emphasis on spacious yards and serene environments, perfect if you're seeking a quieter, more laid-back setting. Washington DC, on the other hand, is prized for its urban feel, with higher rent and home prices reflecting its prime location and proximity to arrays of public transport and amenities. The capital city boasts higher walkability and bikeability scores, aligning with its vibrant neighborhoods and historical architecture. Whether you're leaning towards the federal charm of DC or the craftsman appeal of Durham, each city presents unique opportunities and lifestyles to explore.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington, DC

1. Adams Morgan: Known for its vibrant street life and diverse culture, Adams Morgan is extremely pet-friendly, offering numerous pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks like the Walter Pierce Park where your furry friends can play.

2. Capitol Hill: Aside from the iconic U.S. Capitol and historic ambiance, Capitol Hill features spacious parks such as the Congressional Cemetery, which doubles as a dog park, providing a unique space for you and your pet to explore.

3. Dupont Circle: This neighborhood boasts a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, with several pet-friendly parks like the Dupont Circle Fountain, and businesses that cater to your pet's needs, making it an ideal place for pet lovers.

Durham vs. Washington Weather Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC to Washington DC requires understanding the weather changes you'll encounter. Knowing the differences in climate conditions can significantly affect how you plan your move and adapt to your new home. This comparison chart provides insight into the weather variations between Durham and Washington DC, covering aspects from temperature to air quality.

Summer icon
89/68

Durham, NC

87/71

Washington, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/32

Durham, NC

47/28

Washington, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Durham, NC

41

Washington, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

15

Washington, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDurhamWashington
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesHurricanes, Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Durham and Washington DC share some similarities in their weather patterns, such as comparable summer temperatures and main seasonal allergies, there are notable differences to consider. For instance, Washington DC generally sees more snow in the winter than Durham, which might be a significant change for you if you're not accustomed to heavier snowfall. Additionally, the slightly higher humidity in Durham could impact your day-to-day comfort compared to the drier climate of Washington DC. Considering these factors can help you prepare better for your relocation, from wardrobe changes to managing seasonal allergies.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're planning to move, grasping the financial expectations of your new city is crucial. This comparison between Durham and Washington DC focuses on key economic indicators to help you understand the differences in money and finance you'll encounter. From the cost of living to tax rates, knowing these facts will assist in your transition.

ComparisonDurhamWashington
Avg. Household Income$71,343$90,088
Cost of Living Index96.6140.1
State Income Tax5.258.5
Avg. Property Tax0.840.56
Avg. Sales Tax7.56.0
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, BiotechnologyGovernment, Professional Services, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateNoticeable
HomelessnessLowHigh

While Durham offers an appealing average household income, Washington DC boasts an even higher figure, reflecting the city’s affluence. However, this comes with a significantly higher cost of living and state income tax rate, indicating that your earnings might not go as far in DC as they would in Durham. Despite having lower property taxes, DC's homelessness rate is high, underlying the city's income disparity and the high cost of living. Understanding these financial dynamics will be crucial for your adjustment and financial planning when making the move.

Durham vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison

In this quick guide, we aim to provide a snapshot of the political and religious landscape, helping you understand the community you’re moving into. This is a comparison of the politics between Durham & Washington DC , crafted for those relocating from Durham, NC, to Washington, DC. It’s designed to shed light on the similarities or differences you might encounter in your new home.

DurhamWashington
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticHeavily Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive policies on social issuesFocus on civil rights, statehood
ReligionMix of Protestant and other Christian denominationsDiverse, with a significant Christian population including a variety of denominations

Durham and Washington DC share a broadly Democratic political makeup, but the scale and focus of their politics vary. In Durham, one can witness a community actively engaged in progressive social policies, reflecting the city's diverse and inclusive ethos. Similarly, Washington DC's political landscape is heavily Democratic, with a distinct focus on civil rights issues and the city's bid for statehood—an aspect of local politics that deeply resonates with its residents. The religious scene in both cities showcases diversity, yet with a predominant Christian presence. However, Washington DC's religious fabric is broader, encompassing a wide range of faiths and denominations, reflecting the city's international and multicultural character.

Durham vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC to Washington DC, DC isn't just a change of scenery—it's a transition that will affect your daily routine, especially when it comes to the commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Washington DC is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.

ComparisonDurhamWashington
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2230
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

When you move from Durham to Washington DC, you'll notice a significant change in your commuting life. Durham's average commute time is quite reasonable at 22 minutes, but in DC, the complexity and size of the city push that number to 30 minutes, reflecting higher levels of traffic congestion. Public transportation availability in DC is significantly better, thanks to the widespread DC Metro system and numerous bus routes, which can drastically alter your need for a car. While Durham's public transit system is growing, it doesn't quite match up to the extensive network found in DC, where living without a car is not only feasible, it's common.

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