Moving from Washington to North Carolina?

6 Best WA to NC Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

WA to NC Moving Specialists

Moving from the Evergreen State to the Tar Heel State marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with adventure and new beginnings. You’re transitioning from Washington's lush landscapes and tech-savvy cities to North Carolina's rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm, welcoming communities. Given the distance and differences between the two, it’s crucial you entrust this journey to professional movers who are not only trusted but have proven time and again to be the best, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

Washington iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from North Carolina to Washington guide.

6 Best Washington to North Carolina Movers

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

#1
Just Move It, LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,771+ data points

Location DotResearch Triangle Park, NC
GearLocal & Long-Distance Moving, Packing Services, Commercial & Office Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3250986 Verify

About Just Move It, LLC

Just Move It offers some of the best local and long-distance moving rates. But that’s not all that makes it great. It is also professional, ...Read More >>

top wilmington 2024 just move it llc image
top 10 ranked movers in wilmington 2023 just move it llc image
top 10 ranked movers in wilmington 2022 just move it llc image
#2
Illuminated Moving & Packing Logo
Exceptional

based on 858+ data points

Location DotHendersonville, NC
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/17/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3605341 Verify

About Illuminated Moving & Packing

Illuminated Moving & Packing is a locally owned and operated moving company based in Asheville, NC, serving surrounding areas such as He...Read More >>

top asheville 2024 illuminated moving packing image
top 10 ranked movers in weaverville 2023 illuminated moving packing image
#3
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,542+ data points

Location DotPreston, WA
GearResidential Moves, Commercial Moves, Long-Distance Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1990914 Verify

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

top 10 tacoma 2024 first due movers image
top 10 ranked movers in tacoma 2023 first due movers image
top 10 ranked movers in tacoma 2022 first due movers image
#4
Help-U-Move Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,091+ data points

Location DotPasco, WA
GearLocal Moving, Statewide Moving, Out of State Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 482337 Verify

About Help-U-Move

Help-U-Move is a veteran-owned, locally operated small business in Pasco that handles over 4,000 moves yearly. It has provided residential a...Read More >>

top kennewick 2024 help u move image
top ranked movers in kennewick 2023 help u move image
top ranked movers in kennewick 2022 help u move image
#5
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,004+ data points

Location DotPost Falls, ID
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/25/2022)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3119758 Verify

About Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Lake Coeur d’Alene Movers is a premier moving company in North Idaho, offering services throughout the region. Voted Best Moving Company in ...Read More >>

top spokane 2024 lake coeur dalene movers image
top 3 ranked movers in spokane 2023 lake coeur dalene movers image
top 3 ranked movers in spokane 2022 lake coeur dalene movers image
#6
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 572+ data points

Location DotKent, WA
GearResidential Moves, Commercial Moves, Long-Distance Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1990914 Verify

About First Due Movers

Founded by firefighters in 2009, First Due Movers is a Washington-based moving company with a 4.9/5 Google customer rating. Trust, professio...Read More >>

top 10 federal way 2024 first due movers image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington to North Carolina

Moving from one state to another can be a life-changing decision that comes with its unique set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington to North Carolina . By comparing the cons with the pros and vice versa, you'll have a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your upcoming transition.

CONs
PROs
Washington iconWashington
  • High cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
North Carolina iconNorth Carolina
  • Lower cost of living
  • More sunny days
  • Lighter traffic
North Carolina iconNorth Carolina
  • Flatter terrain
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • More conservative
Washington iconWashington
  • Stunning landscapes
  • Strong tech industry
  • Progressive culture

When moving from Washington to North Carolina, you'll exchange the Pacific Northwest's lush, rain-soaked forests and vibrant urban centers like Seattle, known for its tech scene and iconic Space Needle, for the charming landscapes and warming hospitality of the Tar Heel State. In North Carolina, cities like Charlotte and Raleigh offer an enticing blend of historical sites, such as the North Carolina Museum of History, bustling restaurants, and a burgeoning tech scene, albeit on a smaller scale than Washington. You'll find neighborhood parks in areas like the Research Triangle that are ripe for exploration, and the state's milder winters and longer summers allow for ample time to enjoy the picturesque Outer Banks or the serene Blue Ridge Mountains. This transition brings a promising shift towards a lower cost of living and potentially, a higher quality of life, albeit with adjustments to a new cultural and economic landscape.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Washington to North Carolina

As you plan your move, understanding the local culture through food is essential. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & North Carolina to help you get a taste of what life will be like in your new home.

WashingtonNorth Carolina

Most iconic local food item

Salmon
Pulled pork BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Geoduck clam
Eastern-style BBQ

Most popular street food item

Teriyaki
Fried Chicken

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Pho
Barbecue Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Canlis
  • Ray's Boathouse
  • Mamnoon

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
7

Abundance of Food Trucks

9
7

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

9
7

Famed for its rich flavors and diverse range, the cuisine in both Washington and North Carolina offers a tantalizing taste of each state's cultural heritage. In Washington, especially in places like Seattle, the fresh seafood, particularly salmon and geoduck clams, plays a central role in local cuisine, reflecting the state's deep connection with its waterways. On the other hand, North Carolina is celebrated for its distinctive barbecue styles, with pulled pork BBQ and Eastern-style BBQ reigning supreme. This state's love for barbecue can be explored in depth in restaurants such as Lexington Barbecue and Buxton Hall Barbecue. Washington's embrace of global cuisine is visible in its popular street food and vegan options, such as vegan pho, showcasing the state's progressive and health-conscious mindset. Whereas in North Carolina, even vegan food draws inspiration from traditional BBQ flavors, as seen with the innovative barbecue jackfruit dishes that have emerged. Both states feature vibrant food scenes, but for those moving to North Carolina, prepare your palate for a deep dive into the world of smoky flavors and southern comfort food, enhanced by a flourishing food truck scene and a growing appreciation for diverse dietary preferences.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Washington to North Carolina

When planning a move, evaluating real estate is crucial for a smooth transition. Understanding how Washington and North Carolina compare in terms of housing can greatly influence your decision. This comparison delves into various components such as cost, architectural styles, and lifestyle amenities to guide your choice.

In the diverse landscapes of Washington and North Carolina, home prices and living expenses distinctly reflect the local economies and lifestyles. Washington, with its booming tech sector, offers modern and Craftsman-style homes, often highlighted for their proximity to green spaces and major tech hubs. In contrast, North Carolina attracts with its rich history and affordability, featuring Colonial and Cape Cod architectural styles and boasting coastal access in many of its real estate listings. The move from Washington to North Carolina might mean embracing a slower-paced lifestyle, with significant cost savings in housing and an opportunity to explore the historical and natural beauty of the Southeast.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Washington to North Carolina

Moving from one state to another can dramatically change your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate shifts from Washington to North Carolina is crucial in preparing for your new environment. This comparison aims to equip you with the necessary knowledge on what to expect weather-wise.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Washington

88°F / 66°F

North Carolina

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Washington

52°F / 32°F

North Carolina

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Washington

50

North Carolina

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Washington

4

North Carolina

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Washington to North Carolina, you'll notice a significant difference in both summer and winter temperatures. North Carolina experiences hotter summers and slightly cooler winters. Another key difference is the amount of sunshine, with North Carolina enjoying more sunny days. This could influence not just your daily comfort but also your activities and mood. Interestingly, the humidity in Washington is actually higher on average, despite North Carolina's reputation for muggy summers, due to its subtropical climate. Adjusting to the local climate is a vital part of settling into your new home, and these factors should be taken into consideration.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to North Carolina

When considering a move from one location to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the crucial differences in costs of living, taxes, and general affluence between Washington and North Carolina, providing a clearer picture of what to expect financially.

Moving from Washington to North Carolina, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living and state income tax. Washington's lack of state income tax is a unique financial benefit, but this is balanced by its higher cost of living and sales tax. In comparison, North Carolina offers a more moderate cost of living, with lower average sales tax, which could make it easier for you to stretch your budget further. Moreover, the states offer different industry strengths, which could impact your career opportunities depending on your field. Understanding these financial aspects will help you prepare better for the move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Washington and North Carolina

When considering a move from Washington to North Carolina, it’s essential to understand the communities you’ll be joining. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between Washington & North Carolina. By examining these aspects, you can better anticipate the social and cultural environment awaiting you.

WashingtonNorth Carolina

Political Make-up

Lean LiberalSwing State

Local Politics

Progressive in urban areas like SeattleVaries widely, conservative in rural areas and more liberal in cities like Charlotte

Religion

Less religious overallMore religious, with a strong Christian presence including Baptist and Methodist communities

Understanding the political and religious landscapes of your new state is crucial for a smooth transition. Washington leans more liberal, especially in urban areas like Seattle, reflecting progressive values in local politics and a less religious populace. In contrast, North Carolina's political climate is more varied, with a mix of conservative and liberal views depending on the region. The state has a stronger religious presence, notably with Baptist and Methodist communities, which can influence the social fabric of the communities you’ll be joining. Knowing this can help you align with local norms and engage more deeply with your new neighbors.

Education Guide When Moving from Washington to North Carolina

When contemplating a move from Washington to North Carolina, understanding the educational landscape is vital. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Washington and North Carolina, highlighting both public and private institutions at various levels. From where seniors head after graduation to the top-rated schools, you'll find the essential details right here.

WashingtonNorth Carolina

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Washington
Washington State University
Western Washington University
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
North Carolina State University
Duke University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah)
Challenge Elementary (Bellevue)
Discovery Elementary (Gig Harbor)
Metrolina Regional Scholars Academy (Charlotte)
Endhaven Elementary (Charlotte)
Patriot Elementary (Fayetteville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

International Community School (Kirkland)
Odle Middle School (Bellevue)
Environmental & Adventure School (Kirkland)
Community House Middle (Charlotte)
Jay M. Robinson Middle (Charlotte)
Ligon Middle (Raleigh)

Top 3 High Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Tesla STEM High School (Redmond)
Newport Senior High School (Bellevue)
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (Durham)
Early College at Guilford (Greensboro)
Raleigh Charter High School (Raleigh)

Top 3 private high schools

The Overlake School (Redmond)
Lakeside School (Seattle)
Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland)
Charlotte Latin School (Charlotte)
Durham Academy (Durham)
Cary Academy (Cary)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Bear Creek School (Redmond)
Annie Wright Schools (Tacoma)
Seattle Waldorf School (Seattle)
Charlotte Country Day School (Charlotte)
Ravenscroft School (Raleigh)
Greensboro Day School (Greensboro)

Top 3 School Districts

Bellevue School District
Lake Washington School District
Issaquah School District
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools
Wake County Public School System
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Both Washington and North Carolina boast impressive educational institutions, but they cater to somewhat different priorities and communities. For instance, Washington's University of Washington is renowned for its research and STEM programs, attracting students nationwide. In contrast, North Carolina offers a blend of public and private educational excellence, with institutions like University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University leading in diverse disciplines. Notably, North Carolina's School of Science and Mathematics is an exceptional public residential high school emphasizing science, math, and technology, a unique offering when compared to Washington's top choices. This comparative exploration reveals not just the quality but also the character and focus of the educational landscapes in both states.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Washington to North Carolina Movers Featured Image