Best Norfolk to Durham Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Norfolk to Durham Movers

Embarking on a move from Norfolk, VA, the heart of Naval strength, to Durham, NC, renowned as a cradle of innovation and education, presents an adventure filled with new beginnings and opportunities. You’re trading the maritime majesty of "The Mermaid City" for the vibrant, academic life pulsing through "The Bull City". Recognizing the magnitude of this transition, it’s crucial to entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your move is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Virginia iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon

Best Norfolk to Durham Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Marathon Moving Services9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Prime Movers USA9.08NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.23A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Norfolk guide.

5 Best Norfolk to Durham Moving Companies

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
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 10/17/2024)

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
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 1,058+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional9.08/10
based on 628+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo
Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,243+ data points

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one of the most ex...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
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.

Norfolk vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be an adventure, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Norfolk, VA & Durham, NC . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Durham that mirrors the ambiance and lifestyle of your current Norfolk neighborhood. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, serene parks, or cultural hotspots, we've got you covered.

NorfolkDurhamHow They're Similar
GhentTrinity ParkHistorical charm, community-focused
LarchmontHope ValleyFamily-friendly, green spaces
Freemason DistrictAmerican Tobacco DistrictRich history, revitalized spaces
Granby StreetNinth StreetActive nightlife, diverse dining
East BeachSouthpointLively shopping, recreational areas
Lambert's PointBrightleafStudent-friendly, vibrant community
Ocean ViewEno RiverWaterfront activities, nature trails
Colonial PlaceOld West DurhamQuaint homes, local events
EdgefieldNorthgate ParkQuiet, residential, park access
RiverviewCleveland-HollowayEmerging arts scene, historic feel

If you're keen on the artsy and historically enriched atmosphere of Ghent in Norfolk, you'll find a similar vibe in Durham's Trinity Park, with its carefully preserved homes and tight-knit community events. For those who love the seaside charm and community spirit of Ocean View, Eno River offers waterfront activities and scenic trails, bringing nature right to your doorstep. Meanwhile, Granby Street's eclectic nightlife and dining can be paralleled with Durham's Ninth Street, where an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars cater to every palate and preference. Not to mention, both neighborhoods boast a lively atmosphere that invites residents to explore and engage. Whether you're drawn to the historic facades of Freemason District or the vibrant student life in Lambert's Point, Durham offers neighborhoods like American Tobacco District and Brightleaf, where history, education, and modernism converge to create dynamic, inviting communities.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Norfolk to Durham

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that requires weighing both the good and the bad. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of what you might gain and lose in the process of relocating from Norfolk, VA to Durham, NC. By examining the following charts, you will have a clearer picture of the pros and cons, helping you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Higher crime rate
  • More expensive housing
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Smaller tech scene
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower crime rate
  • More affordable housing
  • More job opportunities
  • Larger tech scene
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Less waterfront
  • Fewer cultural events
  • Hotter summers
  • Smaller naval presence
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Waterfront access
  • Frequent cultural events
  • Milder winters
  • Larger naval presence

Relocating from Norfolk, VA to Durham, NC, means trading Norfolk's waterfront views and frequent cultural events for Durham's vibrant tech scene and more job opportunities. While you might miss the Elizabeth River's scenic beauty, Durham compensates with lush green spaces like the Eno River State Park, perfect for weekend hiking or picnics. The dining scene in Durham is also notable, with places like Pizzeria Toro offering some of the best pizzas in the region. Additionally, while Norfolk's milder winters are appealing, Durham's more affordable housing market and growing economic landscape present compelling reasons for the move, highlighting the city's blend of modern amenities and natural beauty.

Norfolk vs. Durham Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk, VA & Durham, NC. Food greatly influences the local culture and day-to-day living in an area. By comparing these two cities, you can get a better idea of the food scene in your new home.

NorfolkDurham
Most iconic local food itemSeafood platterCarolina-style BBQ pork
Most popular meat dishFried chickenBBQ ribs
Most popular street food itemOyster po'boyFood truck tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan crab cakeBBQ jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Doumar's
  • The Grey Goose
  • Codex
  • Bull City Burger and Brewery
  • Pompieri Pizza
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In your move from Norfolk to Durham, you'll find Durham's food scene to be very diverse and slightly more inclined towards health and vegan options. The city takes pride in its Carolina-style BBQ pork, a must-try for newcomers. Durham's downtown area and the American Tobacco Campus are especially well-known for their vibrant food scene, hosting food trucks and iconic establishments like Pompieri Pizza and Mateo Bar de Tapas. Food trucks offer a variety of street food items, with tacos being a local favorite, showcasing Durham's eclectic and inclusive culinary culture.

Norfolk vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison is crafted to help you transition by finding eateries in Durham, NC, that echo the flavors and ambiance of your favorite spots in Norfolk, VA. Let this guide serve as a culinary compass, making the move feel a little more like coming home. Restaurant comparison purpose: bridge new and old homes using Norfolk and Durham eateries.

NorfolkDurhamWhat You'll Love
Chartreuse BistroParizadeOffers a similar European-inspired menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Handsome BiscuitRise Biscuits DonutsKnown for their unique takes on southern biscuit sandwiches.
LuceMateo Bar de TapasA Spanish tapas spot, reminiscent of Luce’s intimate atmosphere and eclectic small plates.
CommuneFosters MarketBoth emphasize farm-to-table ethos, serving seasonal, locally-sourced dishes.
Omar’s Carriage HouseThe PitWhile focusing on barbecue, The Pit offers the historic charm and a diverse menu similar to Omar’s.
A.W. ShucksShuckin' ShackBoth cater to seafood lovers with a casual vibe and wide selection of fresh fish and shellfish.
No Frill Bar and GrillBull City Burger and BreweryPrides itself on casual dining with a commitment to local sourcing, like No Frill.
ToastMonutsOffers the same dedication to homemade ingredients with a quirky menu of donuts and bagels.
Cogan's PizzaPizzeria ToroBoth are beloved for their inventive pizza toppings and laid-back, friendly atmospheres.
LeGrand KitchenGeer Street GardenMatches LeGrand in terms of a relaxed setting and a focus on quality, unpretentious fare.

Each restaurant pair reflects a unique culinary bridge between Norfolk and Durham, emphasizing not only similar menu offerings but also comparable dining experiences. For instance, fans of Chartreuse Bistro’s European-inspired dishes will find Parizade’s Mediterranean menu comforting. On the other hand, those missing Omar’s Carriage House’s eclectic and international cuisine might find solace in The Pit's comprehensive take on southern barbecue in a setting that’s both historic and welcoming. This guide aims to not only make your transition smoother but to also enrich your dining experience in your new city by connecting you with places that feel familiar yet offer their own local flair.

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Ready to start your move?

Norfolk vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, the real estate landscape is a crucial factor to weigh. Understanding how Norfolk and Durham compare in terms of housing affordability, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle can play a significant role in your decision-making process.

ComparisonNorfolkDurham
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodColonial Revival, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront views, Proximity to basesGreen spaces, Proximity to research Triangle

In examining the real estate aspects of Norfolk and Durham more closely, it's apparent that Durham offers a slightly higher urban lifestyle score, reflecting its vibrant culture and proximity to the Research Triangle, a hub for high-tech research and development. This is also indicated by its higher median home prices and rent, signaling a strong demand for housing. However, Norfolk's appeal lies in its more accessible housing market and characteristic waterfront views, which are highly sought after in listings. Both cities boast a rich historical architecture, with Norfolk favoring Colonial and Cape Cod styles, while Durham leans towards Colonial Revival and Craftsman, providing a quaint aesthetic appeal to their neighborhoods.

Norfolk vs. Durham Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one location to another, understanding how to adapt to the new weather conditions is crucial. For those relocating from Norfolk, VA to Durham, NC, this comparative guide will shed light on what weather differences to expect. This will help you prepare better for your transition.

Summer icon
87/70

Norfolk, VA

89/68

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
48/32

Norfolk, VA

50/30

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
46

Norfolk, VA

45

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Norfolk, VA

4

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonNorfolkDurham
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersCoastal Storms, FloodingHurricanes, Ice Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Norfolk and Durham share similar climates, there are subtle differences that might affect your daily life after moving. Durham tends to experience slightly warmer summers but shares a common level of humidity with Norfolk, making both places feel quite muggy in the hotter months. Interestingly, Durham enjoys a few more days of sunshine annually, which could be a small but appreciable difference for those who love outdoor activities. The risk of natural disasters shifts from coastal storms in Norfolk to more inland concerns like hurricanes and ice storms in Durham. Additionally, air quality in Durham leans towards moderate, contrasting with Norfolk's generally good air quality. These insights will help you adjust your expectations and prepare accordingly for life in Durham.

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

If you're considering a move, understanding how the cost of living and financial landscape moves from Norfolk, VA to Durham, NC is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on what you can expect in terms of money and finance, ensuring you're well-prepared for your relocation.

ComparisonNorfolkDurham
Avg. Household Income$58,591$71,343
Cost of Living Index96.696.6
State Income Tax5.755.25
Avg. Property Tax1.070.84
Avg. Sales Tax67.5
Top 3 IndustriesMilitary, Transport, TourismEducation, Health, Technology
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyNoticeableLess noticeable
HomelessnessVisibleLess visible

When moving from Norfolk to Durham, you'll find both similarities and differences in the financial landscape. Durham typically boasts a slightly higher average household income, which correlates with its slightly higher cost of living index. Interestingly, Durham residents benefit from lower state income and property taxes, though sales tax is higher than in Norfolk. Key industries also vary significantly between the two cities, with Durham focusing more on education, health, and technology, potentially offering diverse job opportunities compared to Norfolk's military, transport, and tourism-based economy. These factors contribute to Durham's description as slightly more affluent, with poverty and homelessness being less pronounced compared to Norfolk.

Norfolk vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move, understanding the local community is essential. This includes getting to know the political and religious landscapes of your potential new home. This comparison of the politics and religions between Norfolk, VA & Durham, NC offers a quick glance at the typical makeup of each city's population, helping you gauge how well you might fit in.

NorfolkDurham
Political Make-upLiberalVery Liberal
Local PoliticsDemocratic-leaningStrongly Democratic-leaning
ReligionDiverse, with a Christian majorityPluralistic, with a strong progressive Christian presence

Norfolk and Durham both offer diverse and politically engaged communities, but Durham tends to lean more heavily towards progressive values, especially in local politics. This makes Durham an exceptionally welcoming city for those holding very liberal views. On the religious front, both cities host a wide range of beliefs, but Durham is notable for its progressive Christian community, reflecting its broader political and societal values. Whether you're engaging in local politics or seeking a community of faith that aligns with your beliefs, understanding these dynamics can significantly impact your experience in your new city.

Norfolk vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Norfolk, VA, to Durham, NC, involves understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison aims to better grasp what driving and transiting is like between Norfolk & Durham.

ComparisonNorfolkDurham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?With difficultyChallenging

While both cities offer their unique blend of mobility options, there are noticeable differences. For instance, Durham generally has a shorter average commute time compared to Norfolk. This might be due to lesser traffic congestion, as suggested by lower congestion scores. However, Norfolk provides more robust public transit options, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, Durham scores lower in terms of public transit availability, posing a challenge for those without a personal vehicle. Nevertheless, both cities encourage the use of alternative transportation methods to ease congestion and promote sustainability.

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