Best Raleigh to Richmond Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Richmond Movers

Moving from Raleigh, the "City of Oaks," to Richmond, the heart of Virginia's history, is a journey filled with excitement and new possibilities. You're leaving behind Raleigh's lush landscapes and booming tech scene for Richmond's vibrant arts scene and rich past. In this transition, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your belongings navigate the 170-mile journey safely. With our unbiased ranking algorithm, we're here to guide you to the best movers, making your move as smooth as your aspirations for this new chapter.

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Best Raleigh to Richmond Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.42NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.26NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Estes SureMove9.21A+Authorized For PropertyContact
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA9.19A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Richmond Moving Companies

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
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 12/17/2024)

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
Exceptional9.26/10
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. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Estes SureMove Logo
Exceptional9.21/10
based on 1,255+ data points

About Estes SureMove

The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you, but at th...Read More >>

Services

  • Home moving
  • Employee relocations
  • Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

121018 / 97275

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans9,075
Registered Drivers8,573
Total Annual Miles Moved586,187,648 (2023)
View Full Review
4
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA Logo
Exceptional9.19/10
based on 957+ data points

About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA

On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and long-distance moving...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Moving Helpers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3865625 / 1413617

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved8,000 (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. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make this transition easier, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Richmond, VA. This guide aims to help you find a new home that feels just like the one you're leaving by matching Raleigh neighborhoods with their Richmond counterparts based on their vibe, culture, and amenities.

RaleighRichmondHow They're Similar
North HillsThe FanVibrant social scene, shopping
Boylan HeightsChurch HillRich history, community feel
Five PointsCarytownEclectic shops, eateries
Cameron VillageThe Museum DistrictShopping, arts
OakwoodFairmontHistoric homes, quiet streets
Hayes BartonWindsor FarmsUpscale, historic
Glenwood SouthScott's AdditionTrendy, nightlife and breweries
MordecaiBarton HeightsResidential, historic charm
Warehouse DistrictManchesterIndustrial vibe, lofts
Brier CreekShort PumpModern amenities, shopping

In exploring these neighborhoods, you'll find that Five Points in Raleigh shares a similar eclectic atmosphere with Carytown in Richmond, celebrated for its unique shops and local eateries such as Carytown Burgers & Fries. Meanwhile, the Warehouse District's industrial-chic ambiance is mirrored in Richmond's Manchester, with spaces like Plant Zero offering a hub for artists and entrepreneurs. For a taste of history combined with a sense of community, Boylan Heights' counterpart, Church Hill, is not to be missed, where landmarks like St. John's Episcopal Church stand testament to Richmond's rich past. Each neighborhood pairing, from Hayes Barton to Windsor Farms, underscores a shared commitment to preserving unique architectural and cultural heritages, while also embracing modern lifestyles and amenities.

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Things to Do in Richmond

  • Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.
  • Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
  • View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
  • Attend a concert at The National venue.
  • Paddleboarding on James River.
  • Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
  • Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Richmond

Moving involves weighing the good against the bad, and this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA relocation experience. Through the comparison charts, you'll get a clearer view of what awaits you in your new city, helping you make an informed decision. Let's explore the advantages and challenges.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Limited cultural venues
  • Warmer summers
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Fewer historical sites
  • Less diverse cuisine
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Rich art scene
  • Cooler climate
  • Growing tech scene
  • Rich history
  • Vibrant food scene
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Fewer colleges
  • Smaller parks
  • Less bike-friendly
  • Higher living costs
  • Competitive job scene
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Vibrant student life
  • Large green spaces
  • Extensive bike lanes
  • Lower housing costs
  • Strong job market

In Raleigh, the extensive green spaces such as Lake Johnson Park offer residents a lush getaway within the city limits. However, Richmond counters with its own unique charm, offering historic parks like Richmond National Battlefield Park that not only provide green space but also a deep dive into America’s past. The food scene in Richmond, highlighted by establishments like Sub Rosa Bakery in the Church Hill neighborhood, showcases an eclectic mix of traditional Southern cuisine and international flavors, drawing food lovers from all over. On the technology front, while Raleigh has been known for its Research Triangle Park, Richmond’s growing tech scene, buoyed by initiatives like RVATech, is becoming increasingly attractive to professionals in the sector. These comparisons reflect the complex tapestry of considerations one must navigate when relocating, where each city has its unique offerings and challenges.

Raleigh vs. Richmond Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh, NC, and Richmond, VA, highlighting the importance of food as a part of local culture and living experience. Understanding the culinary differences can help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city.

RaleighRichmond
Most iconic local food itemNorth Carolina BBQVirginia Ham
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemHot DogsFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitQuinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit Authentic Barbecue
  • Poole's Diner
  • Bida Manda
  • Sally Bell's Kitchen
  • Mama J's Kitchen
  • Stella's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Raleigh, the North Carolina BBQ stands as a testament to the city's love for smoked meat, with The Pit Authentic Barbecue leading the charge as a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts. On the other hand, Richmond’s culinary scene shines with Virginia Ham and an array of comfort foods, with Mama J's Kitchen offering some of the best fried chicken in the city. Each city boasts a vibrant food truck scene, with Richmond slightly edging out Raleigh in terms of variety. For those with a plant-based diet, both cities offer a range of vegan options, though Richmond is noted for its slightly more vegan-friendly atmosphere. Whether it’s enjoying a BBQ Jackfruit in Raleigh’s Warehouse District or a fresh Quinoa Salad on Richmond’s Carytown, you’ll find each city has its unique flavor to delight your taste buds.

Raleigh vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in food is essential when making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart aims to bridge Raleigh, NC, and Richmond, VA, guiding you towards your new favorite dining spots by leveraging the familiarity of establishments from your current hometown. Discover where to indulge in exquisite meals, savor casual bites, and enjoy the unique culinary scene your new city offers.

RaleighRichmondWhat You'll Love
Death & TaxesL'OpossumBoth offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on unique, innovative dishes.
Poole's DinerHeritageCasual yet sophisticated dining atmosphere with a strong emphasis on reimagined American classics.
Bida MandaSabaiA vibrant spot capturing the essence of Thai and Laotian cuisine with an engaging atmosphere.
Brewery BhavanaThe Answer BrewpubCombines craft beer with an eclectic menu in a community-focused setting.
GarlandPeter ChangBoth celebrate Asian fusion dishes, offering complex flavors and a memorable dining experience.
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyMama J'sFind comfort in Southern classics that promise to remind you of home with every bite.
La Farm BakerySub Rosa BakeryArtisanal breads and pastries made with local ingredients underscore these bakeries' similarities.
The PitAlamo BBQBoth are celebrated for their authentic barbecue dishes, offering smoky flavors rooted in tradition.
StanburyLemaireFine dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, crafting a memorable gastronomic adventure.
Angus BarnBuckhead'sBoth provide an elegant steakhouse experience, specializing in high-quality meats and a notable wine selection.

As you make the transition from Raleigh to Richmond, culinary adventures await at every corner. For instance, L'Opossum and Death & Taxes share a penchant for crafting unique, upscale dishes that push the boundaries of traditional dining. Both cities cherish their local ingredients, evident in establishments like La Farm Bakery and Sub Rosa Bakery, where the emphasis on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients is palpable. Meanwhile, the BBQ aficionados moving from Raleigh's The Pit to Richmond's Alamo BBQ will find comforting familiarity in the slow-cooked, deeply flavored meats that both spots pride themselves on. This table is more than a guide; it's your culinary bridge to making Richmond feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Raleigh vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts the decision-making process when relocating, making it crucial to understand how Raleigh, NC and Richmond, VA fare in this aspect. This comparison aims to shed light on housing costs, architectural styles, and livability between these two vibrant cities.

ComparisonRaleighRichmond
Typical Architecture StyleContemporary, RanchColonial, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, Smart home featuresHistoric details, Proximity to parks

While both Raleigh and Richmond offer a variety of housing options, their real estate markets cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Raleigh, with its higher median home prices and rents, leans towards contemporary and ranch-style homes that often highlight open floor plans and smart home features. This city appeals to those seeking a blend of modern living with a slower pace. On the other hand, Richmond's more affordable housing market is rich in historical charm, featuring colonial and Victorian homes. The city scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bustling environment complemented by historic details and green spaces. Notably, Richmond's emphasis on proximity to parks in its real estate listings underscores a community-oriented atmosphere that outdoor enthusiasts will find appealing.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA

1. The Fan: Famed for its high walkability scores, dog-friendly restaurants like City Dogs, and numerous pet boutiques, The Fan ensures your furry friend will be well-catered to.

2. Shockoe Bottom: With access to places like Chimney Park, a dedicated dog park, and a plethora of pet-friendly housing options, Shockoe Bottom offers a bustling, pet-friendly environment.

3. Museum District: Known for its tree-lined, walkable streets, the Museum District combines convenience for you and quality of life for your pets with places like Barky's, a popular pet store.

Raleigh vs. Richmond Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA, it's important to know how the weather compares. Understanding differences in temperature, humidity, and other weather-related factors is crucial in preparing for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

87/66

Richmond, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Raleigh, NC

48/28

Richmond, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

44

Richmond, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

10

Richmond, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

While both Raleigh and Richmond enjoy similar summer temperatures, Richmond experiences slightly cooler winters with more snowfall—averaging 10 inches annually compared to Raleigh's 6 inches. The slight difference in annual UV index and humidity levels may also impact how you enjoy outdoor activities. Both cities face risks from natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes, making it essential to prepare for these events no matter where you live. Considering air quality and seasonal allergies, Raleigh offers slightly cleaner air, which could be a deciding factor for those sensitive to environmental allergens.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Raleigh, NC, to Richmond, VA, understanding how the cost of living and economic factors of Raleigh compare to those of Richmond is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.

ComparisonRaleighRichmond
Avg. Household Income$74,612$51,770
Cost of Living Index98.2104.5
State Income Tax5.255.75
Avg. Property Tax0.860.80
Avg. Sales Tax7.255.30
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareGovernment, Finance, Education
AffluenceComfortably affluentModerately affluent
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessLowModerate

The lower average household income in Richmond compared to Raleigh does not tell the whole story, as the cost of living index significantly favors Richmond at 95, against Raleigh’s 102. This implies that your dollar might stretch further in Richmond, despite the slightly higher state income tax rate. The difference in sales tax rates is notable, with Richmond offering a considerable advantage. Industry-wise, Raleigh leans more towards technology and healthcare, which could explain the higher affluence and lower rates of poverty and homelessness. This economic landscape could influence your decision based on your career path or financial priorities.

Raleigh vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA, it's important to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This quick overview provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Raleigh & Richmond , offering insights into what might feel different or familiar in your new home.

RaleighRichmond
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on urban issuesProgressive, with emphasis on social justice
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Christian population. More InfoReligiously varied, with historical Christian roots. More Info

In terms of political and religious landscapes, you'll find both Raleigh and Richmond to embody an atmosphere of diversity and progressiveness, albeit with Richmond taking a more pronounced stance on social justice. While Raleigh leans Democratic, Richmond's political makeup is strongly Democratic, which reflects in local policies and the community's priorities. Religious diversity is present in both cities, allowing for a rich tapestry of faith and belief systems that add to the cultural depth of each location. Transitioning between these cities, you'll notice the shared values of inclusivity and community engagement, despite the difference in political leanings.

Raleigh vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Richmond, VA means understanding the differences between the daily commute and traffic scenarios. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Richmond is designed to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your new home, helping you navigate through your day with ease.

ComparisonRaleighRichmond
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2524
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but with planning

When it comes to commuting in Raleigh and Richmond, both cities offer unique challenges and opportunities. In Raleigh, you might find that despite a fairly average commute time, the lower availability of public transit options could make it harder to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. On the other hand, Richmond, with a slightly better score in public transportation and slightly less traffic congestion, presents a somewhat easier city to live in without a car, provided you plan your routes and timing well. This subtle difference can greatly influence your daily life, especially if you're looking to reduce your dependency on driving.

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