Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Virginia Beach Movers

Moving from the City of Oaks to the Neptune City transforms everyday living into an enthralling adventure, marking a significant chapter in your life. Trading Raleigh's renowned academic and leafy landscapes for Virginia Beach's oceanfront serenity and vibrant boardwalk promises a tapestry of new experiences. Recognizing the journey’s importance, it's critical to entrust your move to professional movers we've meticulously selected for their reliability and excellence, ensuring a smooth transition to your new coastal haven.

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

5 Best Raleigh to Virginia Beach 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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#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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#3
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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#4
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,058+ data points

Location DotVirginia Beach, VA
GearResidential Moves, Commercial Moves, Packing & Delivery See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3572153 Verify

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in virginia beach 2023 marathon moving services image
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#5
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional

based on 628+ data points

Location DotVirginia Beach, VA
GearLocal moves (within 50 miles), Long distance moves (over 50 miles), Packing/unpacking services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2995403 Verify

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in virginia beach 2023 prime movers usa image
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Relocating from Raleigh to Virginia Beach Neighborhood Guide

When moving from one city to another, it helps to use your existing city as a guide to familiarize yourself with the new location. Here, we'll compare neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Virginia Beach, VA to find you the best equivalent spots.

RaleighVirginia Beach
Downtown RaleighTown Center

Vibrant urban atmosphere, nightlife and dining

North HillsHilltop Plaza

Upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment

Cameron VillagePembroke Mall

Trendy shopping and dining hub

Five PointsChesapeake Beach

Historic charm and close-knit community feel

Glenwood SouthOceanfront

Nightlife, dining, and energetic vibe

Brier CreekRed Mill Commons

Modern conveniences and suburban comfort

ITB (Inside the Beltline)Little Neck

Upscale, established homes

OakwoodBay Colony

Historic homes and residential quietness

StonehengeGreat Neck

Family-oriented, good schools

South ParkSalem Woods

Pleasant residential area with community parks

If you’re a fan of the vibrant urban atmosphere and nightlife found in Downtown Raleigh, you'll definitely want to explore Town Center in Virginia Beach, known for its lively dining and entertainment sectors. For those who enjoy the upscale mix of shopping and dining at North Hills, Hilltop Plaza offers a similar ambiance with boutiques and high-end restaurants. Families drawn to the residential quiet and historic charm of Oakwood will find Bay Colony's scenic streets and historic architecture appealing. Additionally, the family-oriented atmosphere and excellent schools in Stonehenge make it a great match with Great Neck, known for fostering a close-knit community spirit.

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Things to Do in Virginia Beach

  • Stroll along Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Explore Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Enjoy hikes at First Landing State Park
  • Visit Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Take a dolphin watching tour
  • Surf at Sandbridge Beach
  • Experience Neptune Festival events

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the positives and negatives to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Virginia Beach, VA . By examining the cons versus the pros and vice versa, you can better prepare for what lies ahead in this significant change.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Higher property taxes
  • Less beach access
  • Smaller tech hub
  • More humid summers
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Lower property taxes
  • Beachfront living
  • Larger military presence
  • Milder summers
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Smaller tech community
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Less parkland
  • Smaller food scene
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Larger tech community
  • Rich cultural scene
  • More green spaces
  • Diverse dining options

While Raleigh boasts a vibrant tech scene, Virginia Beach counters with a significant military presence, offering unique employment opportunities. Raleigh's rich cultural scene and diverse dining options, from the acclaimed Brewery Bhavana to the historic Yates Mill County Park for outdoor lovers, contrast with Virginia Beach's more limited but growing gastronomic and cultural offerings. However, the allure of beachfront living in Virginia Beach, with attractions like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the bustling Oceanfront area, presents a compelling argument for the move. Furthermore, Virginia Beach offers milder summers and more favorable property taxes, making it an attractive destination for those prioritizing climate and cost of living.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Virginia Beach, highlighting the importance of food as an integral part of local culture and lifestyle. Understanding the culinary scene can enrich your transition and help you immerse in what your new home has to offer.

RaleighVirginia Beach

Most iconic local food item

Eastern NC Barbecue
Seafood, especially oysters

Most popular meat dish

Pulled pork barbecue
Grilled Rockfish

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
Fish Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ Jackfruit
Vegan Crab Cakes

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

1. Brewery Bhavana2. Bida Manda3. Clyde Cooper's BBQ
1. Tautog's Restaurant2. Waterman's Surfside Grille3. Catch 31 Fish House & Bar

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

8
6

Foodie Scene

8
9

Vegan Friendly

7
8

In Raleigh, you'll find a deep appreciation for Eastern NC Barbecue, with pulled pork playing a starring role in its culinary scene. Iconic places like Clyde Cooper's BBQ offer an authentic taste of this tradition. On moving to Virginia Beach, the transition from smoked meats to fresh seafood is seamless, with local oysters and grilled rockfish highlighting menus. Food trucks might be more abundant in Raleigh, but Virginia Beach's oceanfront location ensures a wide variety of seafood-focused options, including street food delicacies like fish tacos found along the boardwalk. Restaurants like Waterman's Surfside Grille become landmarks, inviting you to explore the vibrant foodie scene by the ocean.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach

When relocating, finding those special dining spots can turn a new city into your home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Raleigh, NC to Virginia Beach, VA , using your culinary favorites as a compass. Discover your next beloved eateries through this flavorful guide.

Brewery BhavanaEsoteric

Craft beers and inventive, garden-sourced American cuisine mirror Bhavana’s unique fusion.

Poole's DinerBecca

Chic eatery offering farm-to-table dishes that resonate with Poole’s Diner’s dedication to local, seasonal ingredients.

Bida MandaINDO

Street-flavored Southeast Asian dishes present a taste parallel to Bida Manda’s Laotian menu.

Ashley Christensen RestaurantsCommune

Locally sourced New American cuisine capturing the essence of Ashley Christensen's renowned food philosophy.

Death & TaxesZoes Steak & Seafood

High-quality meats and an upscale setting offer a dining experience reminiscent of Death & Taxes.

The PitRedwood Smoke Shack

Authentic, wood-smoked barbecue paying homage to The Pit’s celebrated North Carolina flavors.

Morgan Street Food HallThe Hub

An array of eclectic food vendors that echo Morgan Street Food Hall’s community and diversity in taste.

GarlandLe Yaca

Garland's innovative, cross-cultural dishes find a counterpart in Le Yaca’s French-inspired cuisine.

Neomonde MediterraneanBaladi Mediterranean Cafe

Authentic Mediterranean fare highlighting the shared flavors and traditions of Neomonde.

Clyde Cooper's BBQBeach Bully BBQ

Beach Bully’s straightforward, tasty barbecue offers a similar, laid-back vibe to Clyde Cooper’s.

For those passionate about craft beer and creative plates, you'll find Virginia Beach's Esoteric echoing the innovative spirit of Raleigh's Brewery Bhavana. The seamless transition from Poole's Diner to Becca in Virginia Beach ensures that the farm-to-table enthusiast will continue to enjoy high-quality, seasonal dishes. And if your tastes lean towards the unique flavors of Laotian cuisine found at Bida Manda, then INDO will be your go-to for Southeast Asian flavors, promising a culinary journey that is both familiar and exciting. Each of these Virginia Beach eateries preserves the essence of what you loved in Raleigh, while introducing you to the local taste that makes Virginia Beach distinctive.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach

When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscape between Raleigh, NC, and Virginia Beach, VA is crucial. This comparison provides insights into housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle factors. Let these charts guide your decision on where to call home.

In the realm of real estate, Raleigh and Virginia Beach present unique opportunities and challenges. Raleigh’s housing market, characterized by its spacious layouts and ample green spaces, is slightly pricier concerning home ownership. However, the cost of living in terms of rent is more favorable compared to Virginia Beach, which prizes its proximity to beaches and stunning ocean views. Architecturally, Virginia Beach leans heavily on its coastal setting, favoring beach house styles alongside the Colonial, while Raleigh incorporates more diversity with Colonial and Modern designs. The lifestyle in Virginia Beach is slightly more oriented towards an urban and active life, with better walkability and bikeability scores, attributing to its compact, beachfront layout.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA

1. ViBe Creative District: Known for its artistic vibe, the ViBe Creative District hosts numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, making it a perfect neighborhood for you and your furry friend to explore together.

2. Great Neck: With spacious parks like Great Neck Park, this area offers ample green space for your pets to play in, along with pet-friendly walking trails.

3. Shore Drive: This neighborhood is renowned for its close proximity to First Landing State Park, providing you and your pet miles of beaches and nature trails to enjoy year-round.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach

Understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're used to is crucial when moving. The comparison between Raleigh, NC and Virginia Beach, VA is essential to prepare for the weather changes you will experience. These charts provide an at-a-glance view to help you anticipate and adapt seamlessly to your new environment.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

87/70

Virginia Beach, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
52/32

Raleigh, NC

50/34

Virginia Beach, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

47

Virginia Beach, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Raleigh, NC

5.5

Virginia Beach, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Raleigh and Virginia Beach share a similar number of sunny days, there are notable differences in their weather patterns that could impact your daily life. Virginia Beach's close proximity to water means slightly milder winters and marginally cooler summers than Raleigh. Additionally, the humidity level in Virginia Beach is slightly higher, which can amplify hot temperatures during summer. Both cities experience their fair share of natural disasters, but Virginia Beach's vulnerability to flooding and hurricanes requires extra precaution. Considering these weather aspects can help you plan accordingly for your move.

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how moving from Raleigh, NC to Virginia Beach, VA will affect your bank balance, exploring various economic facets. Understanding these differences will make for a smoother transition and better preparation for what lies ahead in your new locale.

Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach, you'll find a slightly higher average household income awaiting you, which could balance out the slight uptick in state income tax and property tax. Interestingly, the cost of living in Virginia Beach is slightly lower, potentially making your everyday expenses more manageable. The shift in predominant industries from Technology and Education in Raleigh to Defense and Tourism in Virginia Beach may also suggest a change in job opportunities and economic focus for new residents. Despite these economic variances, both cities boast a moderate level of affluence with Virginia Beach tipping slightly higher, offering a potentially enhanced quality of life.

Political & Religious Comparison between Raleigh, NC and Virginia Beach, VA

In considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Virginia Beach, VA, it's helpful to gain a quick snapshot of the communities you'll be joining. This comparison particularly focuses on the political and religious makeup between Raleigh & Virginia Beach, offering insights into the ideological and cultural landscapes of each city.

RaleighVirginia Beach

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticLean Conservative, with a mix

Local Politics

Progressive policies in urban areasVaried, with military influence

Religion

Christianity dominant, with diverse religious communitiesChristianity predominant, with notable military chapels

When delving deeper into these aspects, you'll observe that Raleigh's political leanings trend Democratic, fostered by its diverse population and prominent universities that nurture a progressive environment. In contrast, Virginia Beach presents a more complex political landscape, influenced significantly by its substantial military population, thereby imbuing local politics with a mix of conservative and other ideological beliefs. The religious makeup in both cities prominently features Christianity, yet they celebrate religious diversity and are home to various faith communities. Raleigh, with its broad array of religious establishments, including the Edenton Street United Methodist Church, and Virginia Beach, offering unique worship experiences like those at the Vineyard Church, cater to a spectrum of spiritual needs and practices.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Virginia Beach

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Virginia Beach, VA? This guide will help you better understand the daily commute and traffic patterns by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Virginia Beach. Being familiar with these differences can make your transition smoother and your daily life more predictable.

RaleighVirginia Beach
2524

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

33

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible but limited

Can you get by without a car?

While the average commute times in Raleigh and Virginia Beach are similar, with Raleigh just a minute longer on average, traffic congestion is noticeably lower in Virginia Beach. Both cities offer limited public transportation options, rating equally in terms of availability. This makes it relatively difficult to rely entirely on public transit in either city. In Raleigh, getting around without a car is particularly challenging due to the city's sprawling layout and limited transit routes. Virginia Beach, while slightly better, still presents limits on mobility without personal transportation, especially if living or working outside the central areas. Considering these factors can guide your decision on where to live in your new city or whether to bring or acquire a car.

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