Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the scholarly vibes of Durham, NC, to the historic charm of Alexandria, VA, marks not just a change of address but an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. While you’re swapping the Bull City’s vibrant research hub for Alexandria's picturesque waterfronts and cobbled streets, the essence of what makes both cities unique follows you. It's vital, then, to ensure this transition is smooth by choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, something we specialize in by ranking the best through an unbiased algorithm so your journey begins on the right foot.
Moving from Durham to Alexandria?
5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
5 Best Durham to Alexandria Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
#1
 | Herndon, VA |
 | Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More |
 | Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 11/17/2023) |
 | USDOT: 3260258 Verify |
About ARS Movers
ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>
#2
| Hyattsville, MD |
| Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/15/2021) |
| USDOT: 2005212 Verify |
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 >>
#3
| Raleigh, NC |
| Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/14/2021) |
| USDOT: 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 >>
#4
Exceptional
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Expertsbased on 4,516+ data points
| Raleigh, NC |
| Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) |
| USDOT: 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 >>
#5
| Raleigh, NC |
| Long Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) |
| USDOT: 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 >>
Relocating from Durham to Alexandria Neighborhood Guide
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we offer a comparison of local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Alexandria, VA. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Alexandria that feels like home by matching you with areas similar to your favorite Durham locales.
| Durham | Alexandria |
|---|---|
Trinity ParkOld Town Historic charm, community feel | |
WoodcroftKingstowne Family-friendly, green spaces | |
American VillageDel Ray Lively, local shops and eateries | |
Duke ParkRosemont Quiet, near parks and transit | |
Hope ValleyBelle Haven Upscale, golf community | |
TreyburnMount Vernon Historic estates, scenic | |
BrightleafPotomac West Vibrant, close to amenities | |
RockwoodParkfairfax Quiet, established neighborhood | |
Nine StreetsCameron Station Planned, community oriented | |
Old North DurhamWest End Alexandria Cultural, diverse | |
For those charmed by the historic and community-focused vibe of Durham's Trinity Park, Old Town Alexandria will feel instantly familiar with its cobblestone streets and waterfront parks, such as Founders Park and Waterfront Park. Similarly, if you enjoy the local shops and vibrant eateries of American Village, Del Ray's Mount Vernon Avenue, with spots like The Stomping Ground for breakfast or coffee, will become your new go-to. Should your Durham days have been filled with visits to the Duke Park, Alexandria's Rosemont neighborhood, known for its proximity to parks such as Hooffs Run Park and Greenway, and easy access to King Street Metro, offers a similar laid-back environment, embedding a seamless transition for your recreational routines.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Alexandria
Moving from one city to another offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and bad aspects of relocating from Durham, NC, to Alexandria, VA. Our charts will compare the cons of Durham, NC, against the pros of Alexandria, VA, and vice versa, helping you weigh your options carefully.
CONs
PROs
Durham, NC- Higher humidity
- Less walkability
- Fewer cultural events
- More suburban
Alexandria, VA- Temperate climate
- High walkability
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Urban environment
Alexandria, VA- Higher living costs
- Faster pace
- Fewer parks
- More transient
Durham, NC- Lower living costs
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Abundant green spaces
- Strong local community
In Durham, the local community thrives with a laid-back lifestyle and a strong sense of belonging, largely attributed to its abundant green spaces like West Point on the Eno and the Durham Central Park. On the other hand, Alexandria offers a faster-paced, urban environment with a vibrant cultural scene. Places like Old Town Alexandria brim with history, boutique shops, and exquisite dining options, such as Waterfront dining by ARP. Alexandria's walkability allows residents to explore an array of cultural events, historic sites, and waterfront activities, presenting a dynamic lifestyle albeit at a higher living cost.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Durham to Alexandria
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Alexandria, outlying the significant aspects of what makes the food scene unique in each city. Knowing your new local cuisine is an essential step towards immersing yourself in the cultural fabric of where you'll be living.
| Durham | Alexandria |
|---|---|
Most iconic local food item North Carolina BBQ Shrimp and Grits | |
Most popular meat dish Pulled Pork Sandwich Lamb Shawarma | |
Most popular street food item Tacos Falafel | |
Most popular vegan food Vegan Barbecue Vegan Mediterranean Bowl | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 8 7 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 7 6 | |
Foodie Scene 9 8 | |
Vegan Friendly 8 7 | |
When moving to Alexandria, you’ll find an eclectic mix of culinary delights that reflect its historic roots and contemporary influence. Shrimp and grits, a Southern classic, can be enjoyed at many local establishments, notably Restaurant Eve for a refined take. The city’s lamb shawarma reflects a strong Middle Eastern influence, best experienced in the bustling neighborhoods of Old Town. Alexandria’s commitment to diverse and health-conscious options is evident in its vegan and vegetarian offerings, with Hank's Oyster Bar and others providing innovative plant-based dishes. The food scene here warmly embraces both tradition and modern trends, making it a delightful culinary journey for newcomers.
Restaurant Guide for Moving from Durham to Alexandria
Understanding the importance of food in making a location feel like home is crucial when relocating. This restaurant comparison chart will assist in transitioning from Durham, NC to Alexandria, VA , by identifying equivalents to your favorite dining spots. Discover your next go-to eateries with ease.
Mateo Bar de TapasBrabo Tasting Room Offers a European flair with a focus on Belgian cuisine, mirroring Mateo's Spanish tapas experience. |
Pizzeria ToroDel Ray Pizzeria Known for their artisan pizzas, similar in spirit to Pizzeria Toro's wood-fired offerings. |
Bull City Burger and BreweryPort City Brewing While primarily a brewery, it offers food trucks and events, akin to Bull City's brewpub vibe. |
Dame's Chicken & WafflesHen Quarter Southern comfort food with an upscale twist, echoing Dame's soul food classics. |
Nana's RestaurantVermilion Offers farm-to-table new American cuisine, reminiscent of Nana's focus on quality ingredients and sophisticated dishes. |
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenLena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap Though more Italian-focused, Lena's offers a similar European café atmosphere with an emphasis on quality baked goods. |
SushiokiMomo Sushi & Cafe Offers a variety of fresh sushi rolls and Japanese dishes, catering to the same audience as Sushioki. |
Foster's MarketStomping Ground Known for its locally sourced, home-cooked meals, it shares Foster's commitment to community and quality ingredients. |
The Saltbox Seafood JointWharfside Seafood Grille Both specialize in fresh, locally-sourced seafood with a menu that changes based on availability. |
LocopopsDolci Gelati Though focused on gelato, offers a similar artisan approach to sweet treats, reminiscent of Locopops' gourmet popsicles. |
When exploring Alexandria's culinary scene, look no further than Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap for a cozy European café vibe, bringing a slice of Durham's beloved Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten atmosphere to Virginia. For those missing Dame's soulful comfort food, Hen Quarter will satiate your cravings with its upscale Southern cuisine, offering a thoughtful twist on classics. Meanwhile, sushi enthusiasts will appreciate Momo Sushi & Cafe, bearing a resemblance to Sushioki's inventive rolls and Japanese fare. These carefully selected Alexandria restaurants not only promise to replicate the essence of your Durham favorites but also invite you to embrace the local flavors of your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Durham to Alexandria
Real estate is vital when relocating. Knowing how Durham, NC, and Alexandria, VA compare in housing costs, styles, and livability helps you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to give a clear perspective on each city's real estate landscape to ease your transition.
In comparing the elements listed, several distinctions stand out. Alexandria, with its higher median home price and rent, reflects it's closer proximity to the urban sprawl of Washington, D.C., offering a more urban lifestyle as indicated by its higher urban lifestyle score. This is further exemplified through its better walkability and bikeability scores, making it favorable for those preferring to minimize car usage. Meanwhile, Durham presents a more affordable option, with its real estate listings often highlighting spacious yards, an appealing feature for families or those seeking more living space. The architecture in both cities leans towards Colonial, yet Durham also showcases a significant number of Ranch-style homes, giving potential homeowners a variety of options to choose from based on their architectural preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Alexandria, VA
1. Del Ray: Known for its welcoming community and variety of pet-friendly cafes and restaurants, Del Ray lets you enjoy outdoor dining experiences with your furry friend by your side.
2. Old Town: With its waterfront parks, such as Founders Park, and abundance of pet-friendly shops, Old Town is perfect for leisurely strolls and shopping with your pet.
3. Potomac Yard: This neighborhood features spacious pet-friendly apartments and easy access to the Potomac Yard Park, which includes a dedicated dog park for your pet to play and meet other dogs.
Weather Considerations for Moving from Durham to Alexandria
When planning a move from Durham, NC, to Alexandria, VA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This guide aims to highlight how the climate varies between these two locations, shedding light on what adjustments may be necessary. With weather comparisons between Durham and Alexandria , this section provides insights into average temperatures, rainfall, and more to prepare you for your new environment.
89/68
Durham, NC
88/71
Alexandria, VA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
51/32
Durham, NC
44/29
Alexandria, VA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
47.8"
Durham, NC
43.4"
Alexandria, VA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
4.3"
Durham, NC
15.4"
Alexandria, VA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
In comparison, Durham offers slightly warmer winters and more days of sunshine, which can be a significant factor for those accustomed to vibrant, sunny days. However, it's Alexandria that experiences a greater degree of snowfall, a factor that might necessitate a winter wardrobe refresh and possibly adopting new commuting habits in snowy conditions. Though both cities are similar in terms of annual humidity and UV index, Alexandria's slightly more moderate summer temperatures might be a relief during the hot months. Additionally, the presence of different predominant seasonal allergies in each city highlights the need for newcomers to Alexandria to potentially revise their allergy management strategies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Alexandria
When planning a move from Durham, NC to Alexandria, VA, understanding the financial implications is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, tax rates, and economic conditions between Durham and Alexandria helps you make informed decisions about your relocation. Here's a snapshot of how these two cities differ financially.
Despite Durham's growing economy, Alexandria offers higher average household incomes, which is reflective of its higher cost of living index. However, Alexandria's property and state income tax rates are slightly higher, a consideration for those pondering the move. The distinct top industries in each city—Durham's focus on education and biotech versus Alexandria's government and defense sectors—highlight economic opportunities and possible career paths. While both cities have their own challenges with poverty and homelessness, the data suggests Alexandria manages these issues more effectively, potentially offering a higher quality of life. Moving from Durham to Alexandria, you'll encounter different financial landscapes, but understanding these nuances ensures a smoother transition.
Political & Religious Comparison between Durham, NC and Alexandria, VA
Moving from Durham, NC to Alexandria, VA brings changes in scenery, lifestyle, and communities. This quick comparison provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Durham & Alexandria . It offers insights into what you might expect from your new neighbors and the local atmosphere.
| Durham | Alexandria |
|---|---|
Political Make-up Liberal-leaningLiberal-leaning | |
Local Politics Active community engagementHigh voter turnout with strong civic participation | |
Religion Christian majority with diverse religious communitiesChristian majority with a blend of other faiths | |
Both Durham and Alexandria boast a liberal-leaning populace, which could provide a smooth transition for you in terms of political climate. However, you might find Alexandria's political scene to be more vibrant, characterized by its high voter turnout and robust civic participation. This reflects a highly engaged community that values political involvement and public discourse. On the religious front, both cities host a Christian majority alongside a spectrum of other faiths, promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. This comparison suggests a welcoming atmosphere where you can find common ground and engage in meaningful community and civic activities.
Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Durham to Alexandria
As you consider the move from Durham, NC to Alexandria, VA, it's essential to understand how your daily commute might change. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Alexandria aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of travel times, congestion, and public transit availability in your new city.
| Durham | Alexandria |
|---|---|
2230 Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | |
47 Traffic Congestion (out of 10) | |
38 Availability of Public Transit (out of 10) | |
ChallengingEasier Can you get by without a car? | |
Digging deeper into the comparison, it's clear that while Durham offers a relatively shorter average commute time, it lacks when it comes to public transportation options. For those used to driving in Durham, the idea of shifting to a more public transit-reliant lifestyle in Alexandria might seem daunting at first. However, Alexandria's robust public transit system, including its Metro services and DASH bus lines, makes getting around without a car much more feasible than in Durham. This could be a significant change for you, offering not only a different way to commute but also a chance to explore the city in a way you might not have considered before.
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Popular Durham, NC to Virginia Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
