Moving from Raleigh to Austin?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Austin Movers

Moving from city to city is more than a change of address; it's an exciting chapter in the adventure of your life. Leaving behind the City of Oaks, with its lush greenery and vibrant scholarly community, for the Live Music Capital of the World signals a transition from Raleigh's scholarly charm to Austin's eclectic and bustling energy. To make this long-distance move smooth and worry-free, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best in the business for your Raleigh to Austin journey.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Austin 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 2023 raleigh moving company image
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
Heavenly Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,606+ data points

Location DotAustin, TX
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Full-service packing See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3429695 Verify

About Heavenly Moving and Storage

Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-qu...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in austin 2023 heavenly care moving storage image
top 3 ranked movers in austin 2022 heavenly care 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 >>

top 10 raleigh 2024 rdu delivered image
#5
A
Exceptional

based on 606+ data points

Location DotVolente, TX
GearOut of state moving services, Packing services, Office moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3119927 Verify

About Amen Moving

Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing services, offic...Read More >>

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Relocating from Raleigh to Austin Neighborhood Guide

Moving between cities can feel like stepping into a different world, but familiarizing yourself with new surroundings gets easier when you can relate them to what you know. This guide makes moving from Raleigh, NC to Austin, TX straightforward by comparing the local neighborhoods . We align popular neighborhoods in Raleigh with their Austin equivalents, making your transition as smooth as possible.

RaleighAustin
Five PointsHyde Park

Historic homes, local shops

North HillsDomain

Bustling shopping and nightlife

Cameron VillageSouth Congress

Unique boutiques, eateries

OakwoodTravis Heights

Historic, community vibe

Boylan HeightsBouldin Creek

Eclectic, artsy community

Glenwood SouthRainey Street

Trendy bars, vibrant scene

MordecaiClarksville

Quaint, historic charm

Downtown RaleighDowntown Austin

Urban core, live music

Warehouse DistrictEast Austin

Creative and lively

MidtownNorth Loop

Hipster, vintage finds

Moving from Raleigh to Austin introduces you to a vibrant blend of cultures, histories, and communities. If the rich, historic vibe of Cameron Village captures your heart with its boutiques and eateries, you'll find South Congress in Austin equally enchanting. Here, spots like Jo's Coffee and Allens Boots offer a unique taste of local flavor amidst a lively backdrop. For lovers of a more eclectic and artsy feel, Bouldin Creek mirrors Boylan Heights, offering an inviting community with quirky shops and cafes like Bouldin Creek Café. Meanwhile, the nightlife enthusiasts who enjoy Glenwood South's trendy bars and scene will be drawn to Rainey Street in Austin, where establishments like Bungalow provide a perfect setting for evening outings. These comparisons ensure you’ll find a slice of Raleigh in Austin, making your move exciting rather than daunting.

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Things to Do in Austin

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Austin

Moving from one city to another comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Austin, TX . By comparing the cons and pros through detailed charts, you'll gain insights into what makes each city unique and how to best prepare for your move.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Less live music
  • Fewer food options
  • Higher humidity
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Larger tech hub
  • Vibrant live music scene
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Drier climate
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • More urbanized
  • Higher cost of living
  • Larger population
  • More eclectic culture
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Greener city
  • Lower cost of living
  • Close-knit communities
  • More traditional culture

While both cities boast a strong sense of community, the transition from Raleigh's greener landscapes to Austin's bustling urban environment is significant. Austin's live music venues like The Continental Club and its culinary delights, ranging from food trucks to high-end restaurants, are renowned. However, the city's eclectic culture and drier climate may take some adjustment for newcomers from the traditionally Southern, more humid Raleigh. Perhaps most striking is the difference in the tech scenes: moving to Austin means immersing yourself in one of the nation's largest tech hubs, surrounded by innovation and opportunities. Despite the higher cost of living, many find Austin's vibrant culture and economic prospects well worth the shift.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Raleigh to Austin

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Austin, providing a flavorful glimpse into what each city has to offer. Food is a vital aspect of local culture and understanding it is key to truly experiencing your new home. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you get familiar with the culinary scene in both cities.

RaleighAustin

Most iconic local food item

Eastern North Carolina barbecue
Texas brisket

Most popular meat dish

Pulled pork
Brisket tacos

Most popular street food item

Hot dogs
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ jackfruit
Seitan ribs

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The Pit
  • Poole's Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Franklin Barbecue
  • Launderette
  • Uchi

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

8
9

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

7
8

When moving from Raleigh to Austin, prepare to trade in your BBQ jackfruit and Eastern North Carolina barbecue for brisket and tacos — two stalwarts of the Austin food scene. Tacos, in particular, are available in seemingly endless varieties across Austin, from the food trucks lining South Congress to the trendy spots in East Austin. Franklin Barbecue and Uchi are just a taste of the city's award-winning restaurants, showcasing the area’s commitment to both innovation and tradition in food. Austin’s higher rank in foodie scene, vegan friendliness, and its abundance of food trucks reflects a city where dietary preferences and novel culinary experiences are catered to with zeal. There's no mistaking it: food is a big part of what makes Austin unique, and exploring its many eateries is an adventure in and of itself.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Raleigh to Austin

Understanding the significance of culinary delights in making a place feel like home is vital. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to easily transition food lovers from their favorites in Raleigh to new, exciting options in Austin, ensuring a seamless culinary adventure in their new city.

Brewery BhavanaJester King Brewery

Offers unique brews with a community atmosphere, akin to Brewery Bhavana.

GarlandUchi

Both are known for innovative, upscale dining experiences highlighting unique flavor combinations.

Poole's DinerOlamaie

Southern cuisine with a modern twist, mirroring Poole's approach to comfort food.

Crawford and SonBarley Swine

Focuses on locally-sourced ingredients and creative menus, similar to Crawford and Son.

Beasley's Chicken + HoneyLucy's Fried Chicken

Offers a casual yet delicious take on southern fried chicken, akin to Beasley's.

Bida MandaSway

Both offer an exotic dining experience with a focus on Southeast Asian cuisine.

Angus BarnJeffrey's

High-end steakhouse offering a luxurious dining experience reminiscent of Angus Barn.

MandolinOdd Duck

Farm-to-table dining with unique and locally-sourced dishes, similar in philosophy to Mandolin.

CentroLa Condesa

Both celebrate vibrant, authentic Latin American cuisine in a festive setting.

The PitFranklin Barbecue

For barbecue enthusiasts, offering a high-quality, traditional BBQ experience like The Pit.

Exploring the culinary landscapes of Raleigh and Austin allows you to dive deep into the rich flavors and diverse dining experiences both cities have to offer. For instance, fans of Brewery Bhavana's unique blend of craft beer and communal atmosphere will find the rustic charm and innovative brews of Jester King Brewery an exhilarating new home base. Likewise, aficionados of the refined southern comfort food served at Poole's Diner are sure to appreciate the sophisticated take on regional ingredients and dishes at Olamaie. These comparisons not only highlight the parallels between the cities’ dining scenes but also promise a continued journey of culinary discovery and delight.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Raleigh to Austin

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation process. Understanding how Raleigh and Austin compare in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle ratings is crucial for making an informed decision. Knowing these differences will help you choose the city that best fits your needs.

When comparing Raleigh and Austin, it's important to look beyond just the numbers. For example, Austin's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense urban environment, where amenities and attractions are often within a short distance. This urban lifestyle is complemented by a vibrant nightlife and a strong emphasis on sustainability, traits highly valued in Austin's real estate market. On the other hand, Raleigh offers a different charm with its Colonial Revival architecture and spacious yards, catering to those who prefer a suburban atmosphere. Both cities offer unique advantages, but your preference for an urban or more laid-back lifestyle might tip the scales.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

1. Zilker: This neighborhood is a paradise for your pets, offering the sprawling Zilker Metropolitan Park and the leash-free Barkin Springs, where your furry friends can play and splash to their heart's content.

2. South Congress: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, South Congress is pet-friendly with numerous cafes and shops like Jo's Coffee that welcome pets, making it the perfect neighborhood for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry companions.

3. Travis Heights: With its close proximity to the Stacy Parks and off-leash areas, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a community that values outdoor activities and has access to pet-friendly spaces.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Austin

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Raleigh compares to Austin will help you prepare for the change. This comparison covers various weather aspects to give you a comprehensive view of what to expect.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

95/72

Austin, TX

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
52/32

Raleigh, NC

62/42

Austin, TX

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
48

Raleigh, NC

34

Austin, TX

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Raleigh, NC

0

Austin, TX

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Both Raleigh and Austin offer warm climates but with significant differences that could impact your daily life and comfort. For instance, Austin experiences hotter summers and milder winters than Raleigh, with more days of sunshine. This makes Austin ideal for those who prefer warm weather year-round. However, Austin's higher average annual UV index suggests the need for regular sunscreen application to protect your skin. Additionally, although Austin receives less annual rainfall, it's more prone to flash floods, highlighting the importance of staying aware of weather alerts.

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

When moving from Raleigh, NC to Austin, TX, it's key to grasp the financial landscape you're entering. Understanding the cost of living, tax rates, and average incomes between Raleigh and Austin will guide you in setting realistic expectations for your financial adjustment and planning.

When you compare Raleigh and Austin in terms of finances, several facets stand out. While the average household income in both cities is similar, Austin's cost of living is notably higher, driven in part by steep property taxes and a higher sales tax rate. However, Texas's absence of state income tax can somewhat offset these costs. Industries thriving in both cities lean heavily towards technology, yet they reflect each region's unique cultural and economic priorities—biotech and education in Raleigh, versus music/entertainment and government in Austin. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for financial planning and for setting realistic expectations about lifestyle changes post-move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Raleigh, NC and Austin, TX

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Austin, TX offers not just a change in scenery but a new community to be a part of. This comparison between Raleigh & Austin will provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you to understand the social landscape you're moving into.

RaleighAustin

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate, with a focus on business and growthLiberal, with a strong emphasis on environmental and social policies

Religion

Christianity dominant, diversified religious communitiesLess religiously focused, varied spiritual practices

In both Raleigh and Austin, you'll find communities that lean towards Democratic values, though Austin is recognized for its notably strong Democratic stance and progressive ideologies. Local politics in Raleigh tend to be more moderate with an emphasis on business and economic growth, whereas Austin stands out for its liberal policies, particularly those focused on environmental sustainability and social equity. However, when it comes to religion, Raleigh has a prominent Christian community, alongside a variety of other religious groups. Austin, on the other hand, presents a more secular atmosphere with a high degree of religious diversity and a plethora of spiritual practices embraced by its residents. This reflects the distinct cultural identities of the two cities, both rich in diversity but varying in focus and priorities.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Austin

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Austin, TX requires understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison will help better grasp what daily commutes and traffic are like, easing your transition.

RaleighAustin
2526

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

35

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible but difficult

Can you get by without car?

While the average commute times in Raleigh and Austin are relatively close, Austin experiences a slightly higher degree of traffic congestion. This could be a critical factor in daily travel times and overall transportation planning. Raleigh's public transit options are more limited, suggesting a stronger dependence on personal vehicles. In contrast, Austin provides more robust public transit services, making it feasible, though still challenging, to get by without a car. Adjusting to these differences will be essential for a smooth transition in your relocation process.

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