Best Norfolk to Raleigh Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Norfolk to Raleigh Movers

Moving from the bustling Naval heart of Norfolk, VA to the tech and scholarly hub of Raleigh, NC, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the historic maritime vibes of "The Mermaid City" for the innovative, oak-lined streets of "The City of Oaks". Given the distance and the life changes ahead, it's crucial to rely on trusted and professional movers. We at Great Guys Moving understand this journey's importance and are here to ensure your move is seamless and worry-free.

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Best Norfolk to Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Norfolk guide.

5 Best Norfolk to Raleigh 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. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

When moving to a new city, finding a neighborhood that feels like home is crucial. We've crafted a comparison to ease this transition. This guide highlights comparisons of local neighborhoods between Norfolk, VA & Raleigh, NC , aiming to match you with a Raleigh neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle in Norfolk.

NorfolkRaleighHow They're Similar
GhentCameron VillageSimilar vibrant local culture and walkability
LarchmontOakwoodHistoric charm with a close-knit community feel
Freemason HarborGlenwood SouthMix of history and modern amenities
Colonial PlaceFive PointsResidential, with historic homes and parks
Ocean ViewNorth HillsThriving with shopping and dining options
East Ocean ViewMidtown RaleighBlends beach vibes with urban living
West GhentMordecraiArtsy and eclectic with a community spirit
LafayetteBoylan HeightsQuiet, historic, with an artistic flair
RiverfrontWarehouse DistrictLively, with a focus on entertainment and dining
BerkleySouth ParkDiverse community with a range of amenities

If you adore the unique blend of historical charm and artsy culture of Norfolk's Ghent, you'll find a similar affection for Cameron Village in Raleigh, with its eclectic mix of local shops, restaurants, and walkable streets. On the other hand, for those attracted to the coastal vibes and sprawling beaches of Norfolk’s Ocean View, Midtown Raleigh provides a comparable urban coastal ambiance sans the beach but with a plethora of shopping and dining experiences that mirror the convenience and lifestyle found in coastal neighborhoods. Transitioning from Lafayette in Norfolk, known for its historic homes and serene environment, to Boylan Heights in Raleigh will feel seamless, where history is preserved amidst a vibrant artistic community. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the Historic Oakwood district reminiscent of Larchmont's charm or enjoying an afternoon at Fred Fletcher Park similar to Colonial Place’s green spaces, Raleigh offers a comforting similarity with a distinctive Southern flair.

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Things to Do in Raleigh

  • Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art
  • Stroll through Pullen Park
  • Shop at The Cotton Company in Wake Forest
  • Enjoy a show at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts
  • Taste local brews at Raleigh Beer Trail
  • Join a Trolley Pub tour downtown
  • Hike around Umstead State Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Norfolk to Raleigh

Moving from one city to another can be an adventure, bringing along a mix of opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to reflect honestly on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Norfolk, VA to Raleigh, NC, providing you with a balanced view to make your transition smoother.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Higher coastal flooding risk
  • Smaller job market
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Fewer cultural sites
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower flood risk
  • Bigger job market
  • Strong tech industry
  • More cultural sites
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Farther from beach
  • No naval base
  • Less nautical culture
  • Higher cost of living
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Beach proximity
  • Naval base access
  • Nautical culture
  • Cost of Living

The move from Norfolk, VA, to Raleigh, NC, entails trading proximity to the beach and a rich nautical culture for a city bustling with technological advancement and job opportunities. While leaving behind Norfolk's unique naval base access and seafood-rich restaurants, such as Todd Jurich's Bistro, you'll be greeted in Raleigh by a vibrant tech scene and enthralling cultural sites like the North Carolina Museum of History. The transition also means embracing Raleigh's lush green spaces, where Pullen Park and the Raleigh Rose Garden offer serene escapes within an urban setting. Despite a potentially higher cost of living in Raleigh, the city compensates with a diverse community, innovative job market, and an enriching lifestyle.

Norfolk vs. Raleigh Food Guide

When considering a move, food plays a significant role in understanding a location's culture and living experience. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk & Raleigh , equipping you with insights into the culinary scenes of both cities, to better inform your decision on where you're moving to.

NorfolkRaleigh
Most iconic local food itemChesapeake Bay CrabCarolina-style BBQ Pork
Most popular meat dishFried CatfishPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food itemOyster Po'boySmoked Brisket Taco
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQ SandwichTempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Toast
  • Handsome Biscuit
  • Commune
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Bida Manda
  • Poole's Diner
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Norfolk, the Chesapeake Bay Crab holds a legendary status, often prepared in dishes that highlight the local flavors and the city's proximity to the water. Restaurants like Toast in Ghent district provide a cozy atmosphere to explore the city's culinary offerings. Raleigh, however, is synonymous with Carolina-style BBQ Pork. In the heart of downtown, places like Poole's Diner offer a modern twist on southern classics, which makes exploring Raleigh's food scene an adventure into both traditional and contemporary cuisines. The abundance of food trucks and vegan options in Raleigh also marks it as a city where diverse tastes are not only appreciated but enthusiastically celebrated.

Norfolk vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite dining spot can be a definite game-changer when relocating. This guide compares the top restaurants of Norfolk and Raleigh to aid in your culinary transition. Norfolk to Raleigh restaurant comparison charts are designed to transform your move by highlighting where to find your next beloved eateries based on your current tastes.

NorfolkRaleighWhat You'll Love
Chartreuse BistroThe Fiction KitchenInventive vegetarian cuisine, echoing Chartreuse Bistro's plant-based dishes.
Handsome BiscuitBeasley's Chicken + HoneyRenowned for their comfort food, akin to Handsome Biscuit's vibe.
LuceDeath & TaxesHigh-end dining with a creative menu, resembling Luce's culinary approach.
Freemason Abbey RestaurantSecond Empire Restaurant and TavernBoth set in historically significant buildings offering a unique dining experience.
ToastPoole's DinerBoth offer innovative, casual dining with a focus on local ingredients.
The Grilled Cheese BistroState of BeerKnown for their high-quality sandwiches and craft beer selection.
NO Frill Bar And GrillTrophy Brewing and PizzaBoth have a laid-back atmosphere with great food and beer.
Byrd & Baldwin Bros. SteakhouseSullivan's SteakhouseBoth provide a classic steakhouse experience with premium cuts.
Cogan's PizzaLilly's PizzaBoth are beloved in their respective cities for unique pizza offerings.
LeGrand KitchenMandolinFocused on farm-to-table dining with an ever-changing seasonal menu.

Whether it's the cozy, creative plant-based dishes at The Fiction Kitchen that remind you of Chartreuse Bistro's innovate menu; or the high-quality, handcrafted pizzas at Lilly's Pizza, reminiscent of Cogan's Pizza's unique creations, Raleigh has a plethora of dining experiences that echo the culinary diversity of Norfolk. For those special nights out, the exquisite atmosphere and premium cuts of meat at Sullivan's Steakhouse provide a seamless transition from the beloved Byrd & Baldwin Bros. Steakhouse experience. Indeed, Raleigh's culinary scene is primed to offer both comfort and discovery to those making the city their new home.

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Ready to start your move?

Norfolk vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. Understanding how Norfolk, VA and Raleigh, NC compare in terms of housing can provide valuable insights into what to expect. These charts compare housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, and more, to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonNorfolkRaleigh
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodColonial, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingClose to water, Historic districtsGreen spaces, Tech-friendly homes

While both cities offer unique living experiences, there are distinct differences to consider. Norfolk, with its coastal charm, tends to have more affordable housing options compared to Raleigh. However, Raleigh boasts a more vibrant urban lifestyle with a slightly higher cost of living, reflecting its booming tech industry and green spaces. The architecture also varies, with Norfolk favoring traditional Colonial and Cape Cod styles, while Raleigh has an inclination towards Colonial and Craftsman styles. Whether you prefer the historic waterfront vibe of Norfolk or the dynamic, tech-savvy environment of Raleigh will greatly influence your ideal living situation.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC

1. North Hills: With an abundance of pet-friendly shops and an expansive park, your pet will love the outdoor activities available.

2. Boylan Heights: This neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly community atmosphere and easy access to Dorothea Dix Park, a popular spot for dog walks and community gatherings.

3. Five Points: You and your pet will enjoy walking through the historical streets and visiting local pet-friendly businesses, including several cafes and eateries that welcome furry friends.

Norfolk vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

When moving from Norfolk to Raleigh, understanding the change in climate is essential. Norfolk, VA and Raleigh, NC weather comparisons will help you anticipate and plan for differences in temperatures, sunshine, and potential natural weather-related challenges you might face. This knowledge ensures you'll adapt more comfortably to your new environment.

Summer icon
87°F / 70°F

Norfolk, VA

89°F / 68°F

Raleigh, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
48°F / 32°F

Norfolk, VA

50°F / 30°F

Raleigh, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
46"

Norfolk, VA

43"

Raleigh, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Norfolk, VA

6"

Raleigh, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

When you move from Norfolk to Raleigh, you'll notice some changes in the weather, but many similarities as well. Both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine with Raleigh having slightly more sunny days a year. Winters might feel a bit colder in Raleigh, given the slightly lower average temperatures and more annual snowfall, though the difference is minimal. Summer temperatures are quite comparable, though Norfolk's proximity to the coast might affect humidity and evening temperatures differently. Air quality and natural disaster risks also vary slightly, with Raleigh facing occasional challenges from tornadoes whereas Norfolk's coastal location makes it more prone to hurricanes and flooding. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare for your move, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. By comparing cost of living and tax implications between Norfolk and Raleigh, you can better prepare for the financial aspects of your relocation.

ComparisonNorfolkRaleigh
Avg. Household Income$58,591$74,612
Cost of Living Index96.698.2
State Income Tax5.755.25
Avg. Property Tax0.990.86
Avg. Sales Tax67.25
Top 3 IndustriesDefense, International Trade, TransportationTechnology, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessNoticeableLesser

While both Norfolk and Raleigh offer unique opportunities, Raleigh boasts a higher average household income and a broader base of industries, including technology and healthcare, which contributes to its affluence. However, it's important to consider that the cost of living in Raleigh is also slightly higher, reflecting in aspects like its sales tax rate and cost of living index. Meanwhile, property taxes are lower in Raleigh, providing a slight financial reprieve for homeowners. Understanding these nuances will help you manage your finances more effectively as you transition to your new home.

Norfolk vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Norfolk, VA to Raleigh, NC? Get a quick glance at the differences in political and religious makeup between your current and future home. This comparison will help you understand what to expect from the communities in both cities.

NorfolkRaleigh
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on Naval and Defense EconomyFocus on Tech and Education
ReligionDiverse; Christianity PredominantDiverse; Christianity Predominant

In terms of political leanings, both Norfolk and Raleigh tend to lean Democratic, reflecting a general preference for progressive policies in urban regions of Virginia and North Carolina. However, the nuances in local politics show Norfolk's economic ties to the naval and defense sectors, while Raleigh's political discussions often revolve around technology and education, influenced by the Research Triangle Park and numerous universities. Despite these differences, the religious landscape in both cities is fairly similar, with a diverse range of faiths, though Christianity remains the predominant religion. Understanding these aspects can help you seamlessly integrate into your new community.

Norfolk vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Norfolk, VA to Raleigh, NC? This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Norfolk & Raleigh to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two cities.

ComparisonNorfolkRaleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2325
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Possibly, in some areasChallenging

You will find that Raleigh generally has a slightly longer average commute time compared to Norfolk. However, it benefits from less overall traffic congestion. The availability of public transit is more limited in Raleigh, which makes living there without a car more challenging compared to Norfolk. In Norfolk, the presence of services like the Hampton Roads Transit makes getting around without a car more feasible, especially in densely populated areas.

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