Moving from Durham to Chattanooga?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Durham to Chattanooga Movers

Moving from the Bull City to the Scenic City is an adventure that promises both an exciting life change and a fresh perspective. Transitioning from Durham's renowned research and tech hub atmosphere to Chattanooga's vibrant outdoor lifestyle and picturesque mountain landscapes means leaving behind one beloved community for the allure of another. It's crucial, then, to ensure this significant life transition is smooth by entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, a choice we at Great Guys Moving take seriously by offering rankings of the best movers to fit your specific needs.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chattanooga to Durham guide.

5 Best Durham to Chattanooga Movers

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

#1
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 2022 raleigh moving company image
#2
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
top ranked movers in raleigh 2022 athens moving experts image
#3
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,378+ data points

Location DotCleveland, TN
GearLocal Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2798532 Verify

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers re...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in chattanooga 2023 boundless moving storage image
top 10 ranked movers in chattanooga 2022 boundless moving storage image
#4
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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#5
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo
Superb

based on 346+ data points

Location DotNashville, TN
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Residential moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2472874 Verify

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and...Read More >>

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Relocating from Durham to Chattanooga Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we’ve designed a comparison to help you find a neighborhood in Chattanooga, TN that feels like home, based on what you loved in Durham, NC. By understanding the similarities between Durham, NC & Chattanooga, TN neighborhoods, we aim to make your move as seamless as possible.

DurhamChattanooga
Trinity ParkNorth Chattanooga

Historic charm, close to parks

Old West DurhamSt. Elmo

Vibrant community spirit, historic homes

American Tobacco DistrictSouthside

Trendy eateries, arts scene

Forest HillsSignal Mountain

Leafy streets, spacious homes

Downtown DurhamDowntown Chattanooga

Urban living, entertainment hub

Hope ValleyLookout Mountain

Exclusive, scenic views

WalltownHighland Park

Diverse, community-centric

BrightleafBluff View

Artsy, with stunning river views

RockwoodNorthgate

Family-friendly, local shopping

Duke ParkRiverview

Lush parks, welcoming neighborhood vibe

If you’re smitten with the historic charm and close-knit community of Trinity Park, the rolling hills and green spaces of North Chattanooga will feel like home, featuring parks such as Coolidge Park. Fans of vibrant Old West Durham will find a similar spirit in St. Elmo, with attractions like Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center offering a retreat in nature. American Tobacco District’s trendy eateries and artsy vibe are mirrored in Chattanooga’s Southside, where spots like Chattanooga Market draw locals and tourists alike. For those appreciating the leafy and spacious surroundings of Forest Hills, Signal Mountain provides a serene environment with breathtaking views of Chattanooga’s landscapes, making the transition not just about finding a new house, but discovering a new place to call home.

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Things to Do in Chattanooga

  • Explore Tennessee Aquarium
  • Hike Lookout Mountain
  • Visit Ruby Falls
  • Ride the Incline Railway
  • Stroll through Bluff View Art District
  • Shop at Chattanooga Market

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Chattanooga

Moving from one city to another is a major decision that involves weighing various factors. This guide compares living in Durham, NC, with relocating to Chattanooga, TN. We aim to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of this relocation, highlighting the contrasts between Durham and Chattanooga to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less outdoor activities
  • Smaller tech hub
  • More traffic congestion
  • Fewer historical sites
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • More outdoor activities
  • Larger tech growth
  • Less traffic
  • More historical interest
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Smaller culture scene
  • Fewer academic institutions
  • More limited dining
  • Smaller job market
  • Less healthcare facilities
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Rich academic environment
  • Diverse dining options
  • Competitive job market
  • Accessible healthcare

Diving deeper into the differences, Chattanooga offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and historical depth, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The city is home to iconic locations such as Ruby Falls and Tennessee Aquarium, offering endless exploration opportunities. Despite Durham's vibrant cultural scene, featuring renowned entities like Duke Performances, Chattanooga is catching up with its unique offerings like Hunter Museum of American Art. For those prioritizing a lower cost of living and more relaxed pace, Chattanooga's appealing characteristics might outweigh Durham's bustling city vibe, richer academic presence, and diverse dining landscape.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Durham to Chattanooga

When relocating, it's essential to immerse yourself in the local culture, and what better way than through its food? In this guide, we provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Chattanooga to help you get acquainted with the culinary scenes of your old and new home.

DurhamChattanooga

Most iconic local food item

North Carolina Barbecue
Hot Chicken

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork Sandwich
Smoked Brisket

Most popular street food item

Carolina-style Hot Dogs
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ Jackfruit
Vegan Soul Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Poole's Diner
  • Nana's Restaurant
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Alleia
  • Easy Bistro & Bar
  • Terminal Brewhouse

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
6

Abundance of Food Trucks

8
7

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

7
7

In Durham, the food culture heavily praises its North Carolina Barbecue, especially evident in local favorites like the Pulled Pork Sandwich. The city's burgeoning vegan scene is not to be overlooked either, with BBQ Jackfruit serving as a testament to Durham's culinary diversity. Meanwhile, Chattanooga's Hot Chicken and Smoked Brisket pay homage to Tennessee's rich barbecue tradition. The city's vegan community enjoys a vibrant selection of dishes, including the Vegan Soul Bowl found in various eateries. Chattanooga also celebrates its food culture with an array of food trucks and notable restaurants, such as Alleia and Easy Bistro & Bar, located in the bustling Southside neighborhood, reflecting the city's eclectic taste and warm Southern hospitality.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Durham to Chattanooga

Making a new area feel like home starts with discovering local restaurants that you love. This chart aims to compare top restaurants in Durham to similar spots in Chattanooga, guiding you toward finding your new favorite eateries by leveraging your current favorites as a reference point.

Mateo Bar de TapasBoathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar

Both offer a vibrant atmosphere and dishes with bold flavors.

Pizzeria ToroLupi's Pizza Pies

Celebrated for their attention to authentic hand-tossed pizzas.

Bull City Burger and BreweryTremont Tavern

Both are destinations for high-quality burgers and a great selection of brews.

DashiTwo Ten Jack

Izakaya-style dining offering a similar cozy atmosphere and a focus on ramen and small plates.

Guglhupf Bakery, Café & BiergartenEasy Bistro & Bar

Both blend a European cafe vibe with a selection of crafted beers and fine foods.

Elmo's DinerBluegrass Grill

A homestyle dining experience, perfect for hearty breakfasts and lunches.

Vin RougeSt. John's Restaurant

High-end dining experiences that celebrate local ingredients through French-inspired cuisine.

M SushiTotto Sushi & Grill

Offers a premium sushi experience focusing on quality and creativity.

The ParlourClumpies Ice Cream Co.

Both are beloved for their unique, handcrafted ice cream flavors.

Saltbox Seafood JointUncle Larry's Restaurant

Famous for a delectable selection of fried seafood in a casual setting.

For instance, if you've loved the vibrant and flavorful dining experience at Mateo Bar de Tapas in Durham, you'll find a kindred spirit in Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar in Chattanooga, with both places boasting an atmosphere that's lively and perfect for indulging in bold dishes. On the other hand, sushi aficionados will appreciate how M Sushi's high-quality, creative offerings are mirrored by Totto Sushi & Grill, ensuring that your move doesn't mean a step down in your culinary adventures. And for those days when only a handcrafted ice cream will do, The Parlour's unique flavors find a close counterpart in Clumpies Ice Cream Co., preserving the sweet taste of tradition and innovation in your new city.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Durham to Chattanooga

When planning your relocation, comparing the real estate aspects of Durham, NC, and Chattanooga, TN is crucial. Knowing the differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and neighborhood vibes helps in making an informed decision for your move. Let's dive into the specifics to see how these two cities stack up against each other.

While Durham, NC, and Chattanooga, TN, both offer unique lifestyles, the distinctions in their housing markets could influence your decision significantly. In Chattanooga, the lower median home price and rent suggest a more affordable living situation compared to Durham. The emphasis on outdoor living spaces and open floor plans in Chattanooga's listings align with the city's higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicative of a vibrant urban lifestyle. On the other hand, Durham's colonial and craftsman architectural styles reflect a different aesthetic preference, potentially appealing to those appreciating historic charm. Understanding these nuances ensures you find a community that feels like home.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN

1. North Shore: Your furry friend will love exploring the spacious Renaissance Park and cooling off in the designated dog areas.

2. St. Elmo: This neighborhood is ideal for pet owners with its easy access to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, offering plenty of trails and green spaces for your pets to enjoy.

3. Highland Park: Known for its friendly community and walkable streets, you and your pet can enjoy daily walks to local pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Warner Park.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Durham to Chattanooga

When considering a move from Durham, NC to Chattanooga, TN, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This comparison will provide insight into what changes you can expect in your daily and seasonal routines, helping you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/69

Durham, NC

90/70

Chattanooga, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

51/33

Chattanooga, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Durham, NC

52

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

3

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Durham to Chattanooga, you'll notice slight variations in climate that could impact your lifestyle. Chattanooga experiences a tad higher average winter temperatures and slightly more annual rainfall, hinting at milder winters but wetter conditions overall. Both cities enjoy a significant amount of sunshine, with Durham just edging ahead. It's worth noting the contrast in common natural disasters. While Durham's weather can be influenced by hurricanes and ice storms, Chattanooga is more prone to tornadoes and floods. These distinctions are crucial to consider, especially for your home's location and insurance needs.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Durham, NC to Chattanooga, TN, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be affected. This comparison will provide a clearer picture of what to expect. The chart below will highlight key financial aspects, including the cost of living, average income, and taxes in Durham and Chattanooga, to help you navigate your decision.

Moving from Durham to Chattanooga might feel like a breath of financial fresh air for many. The significantly lower cost of living in Chattanooga, combined with Tennessee's lack of personal income tax, can lead to noticeable savings. However, it's important to weigh these benefits against the average lower household income in Chattanooga. The sales tax is higher in Chattanooga, which can affect daily expenses. Understanding these differences ensures you can plan effectively, taking into account local economic conditions and tax policies to safeguard your financial wellbeing.

Political & Religious Comparison between Durham, NC and Chattanooga, TN

When considering the move from Durham, NC to Chattanooga, TN, it's vital to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison will offer insight into the contrasts and similarities, helping you to better understand what to expect in your new home. Let's delve into this comparison of the politics and religion between Durham & Chattanooga to guide your transition smoothly.

DurhamChattanooga

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticConservative/Republican

Local Politics

Progressive policiesModerate-conservative policies

Religion

Religiously diverse, with significant non-religious populationChristian majority, with Southern Baptist influence

Durham is known for its liberal-leaning politics and progressive policies, contributing to a culturally rich and diverse atmosphere. In contrast, Chattanooga tends to be more conservative, with local politics reflecting moderate-conservative values. Religious makeup also differs significantly between the two cities. Durham enjoys a broad religious diversity with a considerable number of residents identifying as non-religious, contrasting Chattanooga’s predominantly Christian population with a strong Southern Baptist presence. These distinctions in political and religious orientation may influence local culture, community engagement, and the overall social environment, making this information crucial for those planning to make the move.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Durham to Chattanooga

Understanding the daily commute and traffic nuances is crucial for anyone moving from Durham, NC to Chattanooga, TN. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Chattanooga will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of navigating each city.

DurhamChattanooga
2225

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

43

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possibly, with some effortChallenging

Can you get by without car?

Despite the average commute time being slightly shorter in Durham, both cities have relatively low traffic congestion, making driving a feasible option. However, when it comes to public transit, Durham scores a bit higher, suggesting a somewhat more robust system. This could mean buses or other public transportation options might be more frequently available in Durham compared to Chattanooga. Nonetheless, living without a car in either city could pose a challenge, significantly more so in Chattanooga where public transit options are less available. Thus, while both cities offer a semblance of ease in mobility, your reliance on a car might still be inevitable.

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