Moving from Virginia Beach to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Virginia Beach to Durham Movers

Moving from the vibrant shores of Virginia Beach, VA to the bustling, scholarly streets of Durham, NC is not just a change of scenery—it's an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life. You're trading the Oceanfront's laid-back vibes for Bull City's rich, academic and tech-driven culture, stepping into a diverse and dynamic new world. Recognizing the distance and complexity of this transition, it's crucial that you put your trust in professional movers who stand out for their reliability and quality service. At Great Guys Moving, we ensure that your journey is handled with the utmost care, guiding you towards the best moving experience possible.

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

5 Best Virginia Beach to Durham 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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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#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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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
top ranked movers in raleigh 2022 athens moving experts image
#3
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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#4
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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#5
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo
Very Good
claimed company icon

based on 1,243+ data points

Location DotVirginia Beach, VA
GearLocal and long-distance professional moving services, Free in-home estimates, Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3239170 Verify

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 >>

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Relocating from Virginia Beach to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting, especially when the neighborhoods are unfamiliar. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that highlights the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Virginia Beach, VA & Durham, NC . This comparison is designed to help you find a new community in Durham that feels like home, using your knowledge of Virginia Beach neighborhoods as a baseline.

Virginia BeachDurham
AlantonHope Valley

Established, family-friendly vibe

Bay ColonyTrinity Park

Historic homes, community-focused

Chicks BeachOld West Durham

Laid-back, close-knit community

Croatan BeachSouthpoint

Upscale living, near retail and dining

FairfieldWatts-Hillandale

Quiet, with parks and recreation

GhentNinth Street District

Vibrant arts scene, eclectic

Great NeckCleveland-Holloway

Family-oriented, historic charm

Kings GrantWoodcroft

Planned, community amenities abound

Princess AnneBrightleaf

Elegant, with diverse architectural styles

Red Mill FarmAmerican Village

Peaceful, suburban feel

In transitioning from the laid-back coastal vibe of Chicks Beach in Virginia Beach to Durham, you might find a similarly close-knit and relaxed atmosphere in Old West Durham. This neighborhood not only embraces community but also boasts an array of local businesses and restaurants like Monuts Donuts that contribute to its unique charm. For those drawn to the historic and aesthetic allure of Bay Colony, Trinity Park in Durham offers an equally engaging community-focused environment, complemented by enchanting streets lined with historic homes. Not to forget fans of the outdoor and upscale living of Croatan Beach, who will appreciate Southpoint in Durham. It's not just the upscale residential areas that draw parallels but also the proximity to premier shopping and dining options, such as those found at Streets at Southpoint, bringing that sought-after blend of convenience and luxury to your doorstep.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Virginia Beach to Durham

Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision, fraught with both upsides and downsides. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Virginia Beach, VA to Durham, NC , helping you weigh your options effectively.

CONs
PROs
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Tourist congestion
  • Less diverse economy
  • Frequent hurricanes
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less crowded
  • Diverse job market
  • Milder weather
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • No beach proximity
  • Less water recreation
  • Smaller tourism sector
  • Fewer maritime activities
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Beach access
  • Water activities
  • Vibrant tourism economy
  • Maritime heritage

While moving from Virginia Beach to Durham involves bidding farewell to beachfront sunrises and a wealth of water-based activities, it ushers in the opportunity for new experiences in a city steeped in academic and cultural richness. Durham flaunts its own set of charms with a thriving tech scene, thanks to the Research Triangle Park, and a compelling cultural landscape at venues like Durham Performing Arts Center and the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. Dining in Durham is an adventure, with renowned spots like Pizzeria Toro offering some of the best artisanal pizzas in the region, and the bustling Durham Central Park hosting community events and food truck rodeos, making it a perfect space for those seeking a blend of urban living and community engagement. Overall, while some aspects of Virginia Beach's coastal charm will be missed, Durham counters with its vibrant community, diverse cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Virginia Beach to Durham

When moving to a new city, the local food scene is a critical part of immersing yourself into the lifestyle and culture. To help you transition smoothly, this guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia Beach & Durham . Get ready to explore the diverse culinary landscapes that await you in your new home.

Virginia BeachDurham

Most iconic local food item

Seafood Boil
Pulled Pork BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Crab Cakes
Smoked Brisket

Most popular street food item

Fish Tacos
Biscuit Sandwiches

Most popular vegan food

Seaweed Salad
Jerk Tofu

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Tautog's Restaurant
  • Waterman's Surfside Grille
  • The Beached Whale
  • Poole's Diner
  • Nana's Restaurant
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
7

Abundance of Food Trucks

7
8

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

6
8

In Durham, the food scene is vibrant, with the pulled pork BBQ standing out as a local favorite. This dish, among others, can be enjoyed at many of Durham's top restaurants, including the historic Poole's Diner and the inventive Mateo Bar de Tapas. Durham's food trucks offer a window into the city’s diverse culinary culture, with items like biscuit sandwiches showcasing the South's comfort food at its best. The city’s high score in the foodie scene indicates a wide variety of dining options, ensuring that every meal is an adventure. Whether you are exploring the streets of downtown or the corner spots in neighborhoods like Brightleaf Square, you'll find that Durham's culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its history.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Virginia Beach to Durham

Moving to a new area can be daunting, but finding local eateries that feel like home can make the transition easier. Through this restaurant comparison from Virginia Beach to Durham , you'll discover parallels that will help bridge the culinary gap, guiding you to your next favorite dining spots in no time.

Tautog's RestaurantMateo Bar de Tapas

Both offer cozy atmospheres with a focus on local, quality ingredients.

Waterman's Surfside GrilleSeaSea's Seafood Kitchen

Known for their fresh catch and seaside dining vibes.

Citrus Breakfast and LunchElmo's Diner

Similar homey feel with a strong focus on classic breakfast and brunch offerings.

Blue Seafood & SpiritsSaltbox Seafood Joint

Both emphasize fresh, locally-sourced seafood in a casual setting.

Le Yaca French RestaurantVin Rouge

Both are high-end options that immerse diners in a French culinary experience.

Steinhilber's RestaurantParizade

Equally elegant, offering a unique dining experience with impeccable service.

Doc Taylor'sFoster's Market

Both are laid-back spots known for delicious, hearty breakfasts and lunches.

Gringo's TaqueriaNuvotaco

Both are beloved for their creative takes on classic tacos and vibrant atmospheres.

Pelican's SnoBallsLocopops

While distinctly different, each provides a unique, refreshing treat perfect for warm days.

BeccaM Sushi

Offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients and presentation.

For seafood lovers, transitioning from the coastal flavors of Virginia Beach to Durham's vibrant seafood scene is seamless. Saltbox Seafood Joint in Durham captures the essence of fresh, local seafood much like Blue Seafood & Spirits, ensuring that aficionados can still indulge in their favorites. On the other hand, if you're missing the sophisticated charm of Le Yaca in Virginia Beach, Durham's Vin Rouge offers a French dining experience that rivals the intimacy and elegance, complete with an extensive wine list. Furthermore, for those casual mornings or laid-back brunch sessions, the transition from Doc Taylor's relaxed vibe to Foster's Market in Durham means you won't have to give up your comfort classics. These comparative gems make relocating a bit easier by ensuring the flavors of home are never too far away.

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

When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Virginia Beach, VA, and Durham, NC, will offer insight into the housing differences to help you make an informed decision. Knowing the cost, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores could be the key to finding your perfect home.

While both cities offer unique attractions, Durham champions a slightly higher urban lifestyle score, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy bustling city life, evident in its higher walkability and bikeability scores compared to Virginia Beach. Interestingly, while the median home price in Durham is a bit higher, its monthly rent falls slightly lower, suggesting a more affordable option for renters. Architecture styles in Durham tend towards Bungalow and Colonial Revival, reflecting its rich history and diverse culture. This starkly contrasts with Virginia Beach's preference for Colonial and Ranch styles, which mirror its more laid-back, coastal vibe. Both cities boast unique qualities, but your preference for a more urban or relaxed lifestyle might sway your decision.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Virginia Beach to Durham

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares between Virginia Beach, VA, and Durham, NC, is crucial. This knowledge will help you prepare for lifestyle adjustments in terms of clothing, outdoor activities, and home maintenance.

Summer icon
87/70

Virginia Beach, VA

89/68

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/32

Virginia Beach, VA

52/30

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Virginia Beach, VA

43

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Virginia Beach, VA

6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Virginia Beach and Durham share similar climates with hot summers and mild winters, there are slight differences that might impact your daily life. Durham enjoys a bit more sunshine annually and slightly less annual rainfall, which could affect your outdoor activity planning and garden maintenance. Moreover, understanding the slight variations in air quality and the prevalence of pollen and mold allergies is essential for health considerations. While both cities face the risk of hurricanes, Virginia Beach is more susceptible to floods, whereas Durham can experience ice storms in winter, requiring different preparedness strategies.

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

Moving between cities means adjusting to a new financial landscape. Understanding the financial differences between Virginia Beach, VA, and Durham, NC is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight key money and finance aspects to consider.

The financial discrepancies between Virginia Beach and Durham offer a mixed picture. While the average household income is notably higher in Virginia Beach, Durham’s cost of living is somewhat lower. This cost of living difference might offset the lower average income in Durham, particularly when considering the state income tax is also lower in North Carolina. Property taxes in Durham, however, are higher, which could impact your long-term housing budget. The variance in the top industries between these two cities suggests potential differences in job opportunities depending on your career field.

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

When considering a move from Virginia Beach, VA to Durham, NC, understanding the broad characteristics of each city can help ease the transition. This brief guide offers a comparison of the politics between Virginia Beach & Durham, giving you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents.

Virginia BeachDurham

Political Make-up

Moderately conservativeLiberal

Local Politics

Mixed, with conservative leadershipProgressive leadership

Religion

Diverse, with a Christian majorityDiverse, liberal religious communities

The political landscape can significantly influence the local culture and community resources in both Virginia Beach and Durham. Virginia Beach has a moderately conservative population, which can be seen in its mixture of policies and local politics. Durham, on the other hand, leans more liberal, especially in terms of local leadership and policies, fostering a different community atmosphere. Religious communities in both cities are diverse, though you may find a more significant presence of progressive religious communities in Durham. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate and find community resources that align with your values.

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

Moving from Virginia Beach, VA to Durham, NC? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Virginia Beach & Durham is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Virginia BeachDurham
2422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

35

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, but limited

Can you get by without a car?

While the average commute time in Durham is slightly shorter than in Virginia Beach, both cities offer distinct experiences when it comes to traffic and transportation. Virginia Beach has a higher traffic congestion level, making it a bit more challenging to navigate during peak hours. On the other hand, Durham provides somewhat better options for public transit, which could be more appealing if you're looking to rely less on a car. However, both cities still lean towards a culture where having a car can significantly enhance your mobility and access to various amenities. Keep in mind, navigating without a car is possible but might require careful planning and adjustment to the available public transit options.

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