Best San Francisco to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,833 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 San Francisco to Durham moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Durham. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best San Francisco to Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 | Active |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Durham?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,833 miles from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC will cost on average $4,190 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Durham move is roughly $10,133. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,809 | 300 ft³ | $9.36 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,190 | 450 ft³ | $9.31 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,946 | 750 ft³ | $9.26 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,133 | 1100 ft³ | $9.21 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,659 | 1600 ft³ | $9.16 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,402 | 1800 ft³ | $9.11 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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.
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.
San Francisco vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease the transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Durham, NC. By aligning familiar San Francisco areas with their Durham counterparts, you can better envision your life in the Bull City.
| San Francisco | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Trinity Park | Historic homes, vibrant community feel |
| The Mission | Central Park | Artsy, with a foodie scene |
| Haight-Ashbury | Warehouse District | Bohemian vibes, local art |
| Nob Hill | Forest Hills | Upscale, with a touch of history |
| SoMa (South of Market) | American Tobacco District | Industrial chic, entertainment hub |
| Pacific Heights | Hope Valley | Affluent, with beautiful homes |
| North Beach | Ninth Street | Lively, with a dense mix of dining options |
| Castro | Brightleaf | Welcoming, with a vibrant nightlife |
| Inner Sunset | Old West Durham | Cozy, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Russian Hill | Duke Park | Quiet, green spaces, scenic views |
For those moving from the bustling Marina District in San Francisco, you will find a similar community spirit and historic charm in Durham's Trinity Park. Imagine walking among the picturesque homes, then enjoying a coffee at Monuts Donuts, a favorite local spot. Meanwhile, if the rich, bohemian vibes of Haight-Ashbury resonate with you, the Warehouse District in Durham offers a similar eclectic energy, underscored by art spaces like the Carrack Modern Art gallery. And for the social butterflies who thrived in North Beach's dynamic atmosphere, Ninth Street in Durham promises lively evenings with friends at establishments like Fullsteam Brewery, where the city's sociable essence is on full display. By making these neighborhood comparisons, we hope to not just guide you to a new home, but also to a new community in Durham where you'll thrive.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Durham
Moving from one city to another can be a profound change with a mix of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC , highlighting what you might gain and what you'll need to adjust to in the process. These charts are designed to give you a balanced view of the relocation.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Challenging parking
- Less green space
Durham, NC- Lower cost of living
- Less crowded
- Easier parking
- More parks/nature
Durham, NC- Smaller tech community
- Less diverse options
- Fewer landmarks
- Limited public transit
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Diverse cuisine
- Iconic landmarks
- Extensive public transit
Moving from the bustling city of San Francisco with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant tech scene, and diverse culinary offerings to the more tranquil and greener pastures of Durham offers a distinctive change of pace. Durham, while not matching San Francisco's vast array of global cuisines, still boasts excellent dining spots like Poole's Diner and Mateo Bar de Tapas. Nature lovers moving to Durham will appreciate the plentiful parks and outdoor spaces such as the Eno River State Park, a sharp contrast to San Francisco's more urban landscape. While San Francisco's tech scene is unmatched, Durham is part of the Research Triangle, offering ample opportunities for innovation and tech employment, albeit on a smaller scale.
San Francisco vs. Durham Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Durham, highlighting the significant role food plays in the cultural landscape of a region. Understanding the culinary differences can help you better assimilate into your new home, enriching your relocation experience with local flavors and dining traditions.
- Tartine Bakery
- The Slanted Door
- Nopalito
- Dame's Chicken and Waffles
- Poole's Diner
- The Pit
In San Francisco, the culinary scene is as diverse as its population, with innumerable options ranging from the traditional sourdough bread to innovative vegan dishes. Neighborhoods like Mission District and Richmond offer a tasting tour of the world, from authentic Mexican cuisine at spots like La Taqueria to Asian fusion in The Slanted Door. In contrast, Durham's food landscape showcases its historic roots through Carolina-style BBQ and soul food, with establishments like The Pit in the downtown area serving as a testament to the city's smoky flavors. Both cities boast a vibrant array of food trucks and health-conscious options, ensuring a fit for every palate and lifestyle.
San Francisco vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in familiar flavors helps make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help San Francisco residents discover their new favorite spots in Durham, blending the best of both worlds. Whether you're seeking a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, or a unique foodie adventure, this guide serves as your culinary compass.
| San Francisco | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| State Bird Provisions | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Spanish tapas style dining, innovative dishes |
| Zuni Café | Parizade | Mediterranean cuisine with a vibrant, upscale atmosphere |
| The Slanted Door | Mothers & Sons | A modern twist on classic Italian, emphasizing fresh pasta |
| Nopa | Pizzeria Toro | Wood-fired pizzas with a focus on local ingredients |
| La Taqueria | Guasaca | Offers arepa-based dishes for a South American street food vibe |
| Gary Danko | Counting House | Creative American cuisine in a fine dining setting |
| Tartine Bakery | Monuts | Known for freshly-made donuts and creative bagel sandwiches |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Saltbox Seafood Joint | Fresh, locally-sourced seafood with a casual flair |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | The Parlour | Artisanal ice cream with a focus on seasonal flavors |
| Mission Chinese Food | M Kokko | Asian cuisine with a modern, bold approach to flavors |
For those who cherish a fine dining experience akin to Gary Danko, Counting House in Durham provides a creative American cuisine that's bound to impress with its artful presentation and innovative flavors. When you're missing the unique Asian fusion of Mission Chinese Food, M Kokko stands ready to dazzle your palate with its modern, bold approach to Asian cuisine, integrating a dynamic range of flavors in a relaxed setting. For fans of San Francisco's iconic Tartine Bakery, Monuts in Durham offers a comparable delight in the form of freshly-made donuts and bagel sandwiches, highlighting the use of fresh, local ingredients in their baked goods, thus resembling the spirit of Tartine's beloved offerings.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is essential. This comparison dives into housing attributes between San Francisco, CA , and Durham, NC , offering insights on costs, architecture, and lifestyle. It illuminates key differences and similarities, ensuring you make an informed decision.
While San Francisco and Durham offer distinct living experiences, each city has its unique charm. San Francisco, known for its iconic Victorian houses and exceptional walkability, caters to an urban lifestyle with its proximity to tech hubs and panoramic bay views. On the other hand, Durham offers more affordable housing options with Colonial and Craftsman styles, large yards, and easy access to top-rated universities. If you value a dense urban environment and are prepared for a higher cost of living, San Francisco may be the right choice. However, Durham could be your ideal destination for a more laid-back lifestyle with a blend of academic and cultural richness.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Durham, NC
1. Trinity Park : You’ll enjoy plenty of walking paths and green spaces where your pet can stretch their legs within this vibrant, community-focused neighborhood.
2. Woodcroft : With a range of trails and parks, your pet will have lots of room to explore and make new friends in this serene, nature-centered area.
3. Southpoint : This neighborhood offers pet-friendly amenities and nearby parks, giving you and your pet ample opportunities for outdoor activities and socialization.
San Francisco vs. Durham Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather compares is crucial when moving from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare accordingly for the new climatic conditions you'll encounter.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When moving from San Francisco to Durham, prepare for warmer summers and cooler winters. Durham's summer highs can reach up to 89°F, significantly warmer than San Francisco's mild 67°F average. Winters in Durham can be colder, with lows averaging 32°F, compared to San Francisco's more comfortable 46°F lows. Additionally, Durham experiences more annual rainfall, so investing in quality rain gear will be beneficial. Also, be mindful of the different natural disasters, switching from the earthquake proneness of San Francisco to the hurricanes and tornadoes more common in Durham.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Durham
When contemplating a move from San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC , it’s crucial to grasp how your financial situation might shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the monetary differences and similarities between these two cities, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
Moving from San Francisco to Durham presents a significant financial shift, especially in terms of cost of living and household income. The stark contrast in the Cost of Living Index, with San Francisco being more than double that of Durham, indicates your dollar might stretch further in Durham, making it easier to manage daily expenses. However, this comes with a trade-off in average household income, which dramatically decreases once you relocate. Moreover, while San Francisco's economy is heavily skewed towards technology and finance sectors, Durham boasts a robust presence in education, health services, and manufacturing, potentially offering diverse job opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances is essential for anyone considering this intercity move.
San Francisco vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
This quick guide offers an at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Francisco & Durham . It aims to provide you with a clearer understanding of the cultural landscape you're moving into.
San Francisco and Durham share liberal-leaning political perspectives, reflecting a broader acceptance of diverse lifestyles and beliefs. This common ground may ease your transition. However, Durham exhibits a stronger Christian presence, offering a variety of religious communities that you might find align well with any desire for community engagement or spiritual fulfillment. This comparison sheds light on the sociopolitical and religious landscapes that shape local cultures, potentially influencing your experience in your new home.
San Francisco vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving cities can be daunting, especially when considering the differences in daily commutes between your old and new home. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Durham is designed to help you navigate these changes smoothly.
In San Francisco, you might find yourself relying heavily on public transit for your daily commutes, thanks to its high availability and efficiency. Cities like San Francisco are designed with the pedestrian and commuter in mind, allowing many residents to forego owning a car entirely. On the other hand, in Durham, while there is some public transit available, it's not as comprehensive, making car ownership more of a necessity. This stark difference in public transit availability and the reliance on cars in Durham are crucial considerations as you plan your move, especially in budgeting for transportation costs.
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