Best Raleigh to Tampa Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Tampa Movers

Moving from the hustle of Raleigh, NC, to the sunny shores of Tampa, FL, signifies an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. You're leaving behind the City of Oaks with its academic vibrancy and BBQ to embrace the Gulf Coast's warmth, known for its stunning beaches and the bustling Ybor City. Recognizing the importance of a smooth transition, we stress the need for trusted and reliable professional movers for this long-distance move, ensuring your journey to Tampa unfolds as seamlessly as possible.

North Carolina iconArrow iconFlorida icon

Best Raleigh to Tampa Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Let's Get Moving9.14A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck9.06A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Tampa Moving Companies

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

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
1
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
2
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
3
Let's Get Moving Logo
Exceptional9.14/10
based on 1,825+ data points

About Let's Get Moving

This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Commercial moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Local moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2270761 / 775415

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved78,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Exceptional9.06/10
based on 5,201+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a comprehensive range of se...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2113690 / FF-19726 812151

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers13
Total Annual Miles Moved310,000 (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. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. Our guide aims to compare local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Tampa, FL, helping you find your new favorite area with ease. By using your knowledge of Raleigh's neighborhoods as a baseline, we'll introduce you to similar communities in Tampa, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

RaleighTampaHow They're Similar
Five PointsHyde ParkHistoric homes, vibrant local scene
North HillsWestshoreBusiness district, upscale shopping
Boylan HeightsSeminole HeightsBungalow homes, artsy vibe
OakwoodYbor CityHistoric district, rich culture
Cameron VillageSoHoBoutique shopping, dining options
Brier CreekNew TampaFamily-friendly, modern amenities
MordecaiPalma CeiaLeafy streets, comfortable living
Warehouse DistrictChannelsideIndustrial chic, waterfront dining
Fayetteville StreetDowntown TampaUrban core, entertainment
Glenwood SouthBayshore BeautifulUpscale, scenic views

For those who enjoy the historic charm and vibrant community of Five Points in Raleigh, Hyde Park in Tampa offers a similar environment with its historic bungalows, trendy eateries, and lively atmosphere; places like On Swann provide a sophisticated dining experience amidst the area's quaint urban charm. Meanwhile, North Hills' modern shopping and entertainment parallels are found in Tampa's Westshore district, characterized by its upscale malls like Westshore Plaza. For an artistic and indie scene reminiscent of Boylan Heights, Seminole Heights boasts unique boutiques, breweries like Angry Chair Brewing, and a tight-knit community vibe. Each Tampa neighborhood offers its own unique attractions and lifestyle, ensuring Raleigh transplants can find a place that feels like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Tampa

Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Tampa, FL . By examining the cons compared to the pros and vice versa, you’ll gain insight into what each city has to offer and what you might be leaving behind.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Less waterfront access
  • Cooler winters
  • Fewer big-city amenities
  • Less diverse cuisine
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • More beaches
  • Warmer winters
  • More entertainment options
  • Wider food variety
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • More crowded
  • Higher humidity
  • Fewer parks per capita
  • Less tech-focused
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Quieter city life
  • Lower humidity
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Thriving tech scene

Moving to Tampa, FL from Raleigh, NC, introduces you to a vibrant coastal city teeming with beautiful beaches like Clearwater Beach and cultural hotspots such as Ybor City, known for its rich history and exciting nightlife. Tampa's culinary scene is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of dining options from upscale restaurants like Bern's Steak House to the casual eats at Columbia Restaurant in historic Ybor City. While you might miss the quieter, tech-centric environment of Raleigh and its lush parks like Umstead State Park, Tampa's warm winters, extensive entertainment options, and waterfront lifestyle present a compelling new chapter in life.

Raleigh vs. Tampa Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Tampa to help you get a taste of the culinary scene you're moving into. Food dramatically influences the local culture and lifestyle, so here's what you need to know to adjust your palate and dining expectations appropriately.

RaleighTampa
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQCuban Sandwich
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkDeviled Crab
Most popular street food itemBBQ Truck RibsEmpanadas
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitBlack Bean Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Poole’s Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Bida Manda
  • Columbia Restaurant
  • Ulele
  • Bern’s Steak House
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Raleigh to Tampa, you'll transition from a region known for its Carolina-style BBQ to an area celebrated for its Cuban sandwiches and seafood. In Tampa, historic Ybor City is a great neighborhood to explore if you're eager to dive into the local Cuban cuisine, especially the Cuban Sandwich. Tampa's food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a higher number of food trucks and outdoor dining options compared to Raleigh. Popular spots like Columbia Restaurant and Ulele showcase the fusion of Floridian flavors with influences from Spanish, Cuban, and other cultures, making Tampa a fascinating culinary destination. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegan, Tampa's food scene caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, showcasing its rich cultural heritage through food.

Raleigh vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a blend of excitement and uncertainty, particularly when it comes to finding your new go-to spots for dining out. Food plays a crucial role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Raleigh, NC, and Tampa, FL , is designed to help you discover your next favorite eatery by leveraging your current affections from your hometown. Let's dive into the culinary scene to ease your transition.

RaleighTampaWhat You'll Love
Brewery BhavanaUleleShowcases local ingredients with a unique brewpub experience
Poole's DinerRouxSouthern cuisine with a Creole twist, echoing Poole's classic charm
Bida MandaWat MongkolratanaramAuthentic Thai food in a serene setting, much like Bida Manda's Laotian offerings
Death & TaxesBern's Steak HousePremier steaks and extensive wine list mirroring the high-end experience of Death & Taxes
GarlandHawker's Asian Street FareDiverse Asian flavors that offer the same eclectic vibe as Garland
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyElla's Americana Folk Art CafeCasual yet innovative, Ella's comfort food closely aligns with Beasley's offerings
La Farm BakeryLa Segunda Central BakeryBoth bakeries are beloved for their artisan breads and pastries
The Pit4 Rivers SmokehouseOffering a comparable smokehouse experience with a focus on traditional Southern BBQ
Second Empire Restaurant and TavernOxford ExchangeOffers a distinctive dining atmosphere reminiscent of Second Empire's elegance
Neomonde MediterraneanByblos CafeAuthentic Mediterranean cuisine that parallels Neomonde's beloved flavors and atmosphere

For a taste of home with a local twist, Tampa's culinary scene does not disappoint. Fans of Brewery Bhavana will find solace in Ulele's unique brewery experience, which similarly combines stunning environments with local flavors. Individuals craving the distinctive Southern charm of Poole's Diner will be delighted by Roux's Creole-inflected cuisine. Those missing the warmth and authentic Asian flavors of Bida Manda and Garland will discover a new love in Wat Mongkolratanaram and Hawker's Asian Street Fare, respectively, where the focus on traditional and street food favorites offers a comforting reminder of home. In essence, Tampa's rich and diverse restaurant landscape provides a seamless transition for Raleigh food enthusiasts seeking familiar tastes or exploring new culinary adventures.

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Raleigh vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most significant factors to consider when planning a move. Understanding how the housing markets compare between Raleigh, NC, and Tampa, FL, can help make the transition smoother. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities in housing options, costs, and lifestyles in these two vibrant cities.

ComparisonRaleighTampa
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanMediterranean, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, office spaceSwimming pools, waterfront views

While Raleigh and Tampa both offer appealing housing options, they cater to different tastes and lifestyles. Raleigh's housing market is characterized by its Colonial and Craftsman-style homes, often featuring spacious yards and office spaces - ideal for those looking for a mixture of traditional aesthetics and practicality. On the other hand, Tampa's warmer climate and coastal environment influence its housing styles, with many homes boasting Mediterranean designs, modern amenities, swimming pools, and waterfront views. Moreover, Tampa rates higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, reflecting its more urban environment compared to Raleigh's suburban feel. These differences indicate the unique lifestyle each city offers, helping you decide which city better suits your preferences and needs.

Raleigh vs. Tampa Weather Considerations

When moving from Raleigh, NC, to Tampa, FL, it's crucial to understand how the weather differences between these two cities may affect your daily life. This comparison will shed light on what to expect weather-wise in your new home.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

90/76

Tampa, FL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/32

Raleigh, NC

70/52

Tampa, FL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

50

Tampa, FL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

0

Tampa, FL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

In deciding between Raleigh and Tampa, consider not just the temperatures but the broader climate effects. Tampa has a subtropical climate with more days of sunshine and higher humidity than Raleigh, leading to warmer winters. However, it's also more prone to hurricanes. With zero snowfall, your winters in Tampa will be much milder, and outdoor activities can be a year-round thing. The higher annual rainfall in Tampa could mean more rainy days, but also lush greenery. Both cities experience pollen and mold as top allergens, so allergy sufferers should prepare accordingly.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another entails examining multiple factors, especially the cost of living. The comparison below is designed to provide a comprehensive look at the financial implications of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Tampa, FL, focusing on various money and finance aspects. This comparison aims to help you make an informed decision before making the big move.

ComparisonRaleighTampa
Avg. Household Income$74,612$63,404
Cost of Living Index98.292.4
State Income Tax5.250
Avg. Property Tax0.860.97
Avg. Sales Tax7.257
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareTourism, Healthcare, Finance
AffluenceMid-levelVaried
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessModerateModerate to high

When comparing Raleigh and Tampa in terms of financial and economic considerations, several key differences stand out. Raleigh, with a higher average household income and a slightly higher cost of living index, appears to offer a more affluent lifestyle, especially when considering the state income tax rate of North Carolina compared to Florida's absence of a state income tax. However, this advantage may be offset by the lower average household income in Tampa, where living expenses can stretch further due to the slightly lower cost of living index. The difference in primary industries between the two cities suggests diverse job market opportunities, with Raleigh leaning more towards technology and education, while Tampa focuses on tourism, healthcare, and finance. These differences underscore the importance of considering your career path and lifestyle preferences when deciding where to move.

Raleigh vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Tampa, FL? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot highlighting the comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Tampa and a glimpse into the religious landscape of both cities. This concise overview aims to provide essential insights for anyone planning to relocate, helping to understand the community they are moving into.

RaleighTampa
Political Make-upLean DemocratLean Democrat
Local PoliticsModerately progressiveProgressive with a strong focus on community and urban development
ReligionChristianity predominant, with a variety of churches linkDiverse, Christianity leads but with significant representation of other faiths link

In both Raleigh and Tampa, the political climate leans Democrat, though Tampa exhibits a slightly more progressive stance, particularly in its approach to local governance and urban development initiatives. When it comes to religious makeup, Raleigh has a predominantly Christian community with a rich variety of churches. Tampa, while also having a strong Christian presence, boasts a wider diversity in its religious landscape, reflecting its broader multicultural nature. This diversity enriches the city’s social fabric and invites newcomers to find a welcoming space regardless of their religious beliefs.

Raleigh vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Tampa, FL, it’s crucial to compare the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Tampa to better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and plan your travels accordingly.

ComparisonRaleighTampa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingDifficult

Although Tampa offers a marginally shorter average commute time compared to Raleigh, it faces slightly higher levels of traffic congestion. The availability of public transportation in both cities is not exceptionally high, with Tampa scoring just a point above Raleigh. This indicates that neither city provides a robust public transit system, making it difficult to rely solely on public transport for daily commutes. Despite the challenges, Tampa's slightly better score suggests a somewhat more accessible public transportation network, though residents in both cities would find owning a car significantly more convenient for navigating their daily lives.

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