Best Durham to Sacramento Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Sacramento and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,878 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Durham to Sacramento 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 Raleigh Moving Company), 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 Durham compared to Sacramento. 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.

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Best Durham to Sacramento Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
2Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
3Capital Moving & Storage9.279.47Authorized For HHG
4Rickey's Gold Country Moving9.238.91Authorized For HHG
5Workhorse Moving Co.8.488.69Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Durham to Sacramento?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,878 miles from Durham, NC to Sacramento, CA will cost on average $4,229 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Sacramento move is roughly $10,227. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,834300 ft³$9.45
1 Bedroom$4,229450 ft³$9.40
2 Bedrooms$7,010750 ft³$9.35
3 Bedrooms$10,2271100 ft³$9.30
4 Bedrooms$14,7951600 ft³$9.25
5+ Bedrooms$16,5551800 ft³$9.20
*Please note: These North Carolina to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed NC to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sacramento to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Sacramento Movers

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 856+ data points

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

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

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 3,932+ data points

6601 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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

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
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,367+ data points

3450 Bush St Suite 245

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Rickey's Gold Country Moving Logo

Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 334+ data points

15887 Rattlesnake Rd

Grass Valley, CA, 95945

About Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3065202 / 1398360

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Workhorse Moving Co. Logo

Workhorse Moving Co.

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 266+ data points

West Sacramento, CA, 95691

About Workhorse Moving Co.

Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3369346 / 1080028

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2023)
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.

Durham vs. Sacramento Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison guide that highlights the similarity between Durham, NC, and Sacramento, CA neighborhoods . This comparison aims to help you find a new home in a community that feels familiar, using the neighborhoods of Durham as a baseline.

DurhamSacramentoHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkLand ParkHistoric homes, family-friendly vibe
BrightleafMidtownVibrant nightlife, walkable streets
Old West DurhamEast SacramentoQuaint, with a mix of boutiques and dining
American Tobacco DistrictDowntownIndustrial heritage, mixed-use spaces
Hope ValleyCurtis ParkQuiet residential area, beautiful parks
WoodcroftNatomas ParkFamily-oriented, community amenities
RockwoodRiver ParkLeafy streets, close-knit community feel
Morehead HillElmhurstHistorical significance, serene atmosphere
Duke ParkTahoe ParkDiverse community, recreational spaces
Ninth StreetR Street CorridorArtsy and eclectic, lively dining scene

In comparing neighborhoods like Trinity Park in Durham with Land Park in Sacramento, you'll discover both offer charming historic homes and are known for their family-friendly atmosphere. Land Park, similar to Trinity Park, is renowned for its large, leafy parks like William Land Park, which is perfect for a day out with the family or simply enjoying a leisurely walk. Fans of Durham's vibrant Brightleaf area - known for its bustling nightlife and walkable streets - will find Sacramento's Midtown equally appealing, where establishments like The Jungle Bird and Kupros Craft House offer lively dining and social scenes. Transitioning from Duke Park's diversity and recreational offerings to Tahoe Park in Sacramento, newcomers will appreciate similar community vibes, where events at Tahoe Park bring neighbors together just as they do in Duke Park. These comparisons illustrate that no matter where you're from or what you love about your current neighborhood, you can find a new place to call home in Sacramento that meets your lifestyle and preferences.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Sacramento

Moving can be an exciting yet daunting experience, particularly when it involves relocating from one side of the country to the other. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on relocating from Durham, NC to Sacramento, CA , highlighting both the positives and negatives. By examining the cons and pros tailormade for this specific transition, we hope to provide a balanced perspective that will aid in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Lower average salary
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Dryer climate
  • More cultural diversity
  • Abundant nature
  • Larger tech industry
  • Higher average salary
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Busier city life
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less historical depth
  • Less community feel
  • More urban setting
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Cozy small-town vibe
  • Lower cost of living
  • Rich historical sites
  • Close-knit community
  • Greener landscapes

The transition from Durham, NC, known for its lush greenery and tight-knit communities, to Sacramento, CA, a bustling city with a vast array of cultural and outdoor activities, offers a unique set of changes. Sacramento is renowned for its diverse cultural scene, vibrant community spaces like Capitol Park and the Midtown area, which boast an eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options. Places such as the Sacramento River and nearby Lake Tahoe provide ample outdoor activities, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts. Conversely, while Durham presents a cozier, more historical setting with places like the Bennett Place, its smaller size might limit professional opportunities and cultural experiences found in the larger, more diverse Sacramento. However, it's worth noting that the higher cost of living in Sacramento could impact your budget, so financial planning is crucial for a smooth transition.

Durham vs. Sacramento Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Sacramento is crafted to give you a deeper understanding of the culinary landscape you'll embrace. Food greatly enriches the cultural experience of a place, and knowing what awaits you can make the transition smoother.

Durham
Sacramento
Most iconic local food item
Pulled Pork BBQ
Farm-to-Fork Cuisine
Most popular meat dish
Carolina-style Ribs
Grilled Tri-tip Steak
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Vegan Burritos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nana's
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Dame's Chicken & Waffles
  • The Kitchen
  • Mulvaney's B&L
  • Tower Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Durham, the food scene is rich with traditional Southern barbecue and comfort foods, like the pulled pork BBQ that is a staple of the region. Find this along with other local favorites in areas such as Brightleaf or Ninth Street, where dining experiences range from casual eateries to high-end restaurants. Moving west to Sacramento, this city takes pride in its farm-to-fork philosophy, offering fresher, local ingredients in every dish. Midtown, known as the heart of Sacramento's dining scene, showcases a variety of vegan and health-conscious options, and the abundance of food trucks offers a taste of the city's diversity in cuisines on every corner. Both cities promise an engaging culinary journey that reflects their unique cultural identities.

Durham vs. Sacramento Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding a new favorite dining spot is essential for feeling at home. This comparison of top restaurants in Durham, NC to their counterparts in Sacramento, CA will guide you in discovering new culinary delights. By leveraging your current preferences, you can easily find similar venues to enjoy in your new city.

DurhamSacramentoWhat You'll Love
Mateo Bar de TapasTapa the WorldSpanish tapas, similar cozy atmosphere
Pizzeria ToroOneSpeedArtisan pizza with a focus on local ingredients
Bull City Burger and BreweryBurgers and BrewCraft beer and quality burgers, emphasis on sustainability
M SushiKru Contemporary Japanese CuisineHigh-quality fish, inventive dishes
Bar VirgileShady Lady SaloonProhibition-era cocktails, similar intimate feel
Foster's MarketMilagro CentreDiverse food court offering a similar casual dining experience
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenLowBrauGerman-style biergarten and modern take on traditional dishes
Bida MandaLemon Grass RestaurantSoutheast Asian cuisine, chef-driven menu
Piedmont RestaurantThe WaterboyFarm-to-table, similar philosophy on local sourcing
Geer Street GardenUrban Roots Brewery & SmokehouseLaid-back vibe, farm-to-fork ethos

Whether you're craving the authentic tapas experience of Mateo Bar de Tapas in Durham or the artisan pizzas from Pizzeria Toro, you'll find Sacramento's Tapa the World and OneSpeed offer a similar vibe and culinary excellence. For those who enjoy the casual, yet refined beer and burger combination, the transition from Bull City Burger and Brewery to Burgers and Brew in Sacramento will be seamless, with both places emphasizing sustainability and quality ingredients. And for the mornings when only a fresh, artisanal pastry will do, the transition from Guglhupf Bakery in Durham to Sacramento’s LowBrau promises to delight with German-inspired fare and a communal atmosphere.

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Durham vs. Sacramento Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, the real estate market drastically impacts your decision-making process. In this comparative guide, we examine the Durham, NC versus Sacramento, CA housing scenes to offer insights that will ease your transition. Understanding the nuances, from costs to lifestyle, can significantly influence your next home choice.

Durham
Sacramento
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial Revival
Mid-Century Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
"Spacious backyards, quiet neighborhoods"
"Close to parks, Top-rated schools"
Durham
Sacramento
Nationwide
$495k$495k$396k$396k$297k$297k$198k$198k$99k$99k0020152015201620162017201720182018201920192020202020212021202220222023202320242024
source: zillow.com
Durham
Sacramento
Nationwide
$3k$3k$2.4k$2.4k$1.8k$1.8k$1.2k$1.2k6006000020152015201620162017201720182018201920192020202020212021202220222023202320242024
source: zillow.com

The differences in housing between Durham and Sacramento reveal more than just financial disparities; they hint at a variance in lifestyle and preferences. In Durham, homes often feature the charming Colonial Revival style, emphasizing spacious backyards and a preference for quiet neighborhoods. This contrasts with Sacramento's penchant for Mid-Century Modern architecture and a higher urban lifestyle score, underlined by its proximity to parks and top-rated schools. For those who prioritize walkability and bikeability, Sacramento holds a slight advantage, offering more opportunities to engage with the community without relying on a car. Such distinctions could greatly influence your decision on where to call your next home.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA

1. Midtown Sacramento : You'll love Midtown for its abundance of dog parks and pet-friendly establishments, ensuring your furry friend will feel welcome everywhere you go.

2. East Sacramento : Known for its tree-lined streets and spacious yards, East Sacramento offers a tranquil environment where you and your pet can enjoy long, leisurely walks.

3. Land Park : With its large park areas and community-focused atmosphere, Land Park provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities with your pet right at your doorstep.

Durham vs. Sacramento Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, and understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison between Durham and Sacramento aims to highlight how the weather varies to help you adapt more easily to your new surroundings. From average temperatures to the number of sunny days, these insights are instrumental for your relocation preparations.

Durham
Sacramento
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tornadoes
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/71
93/58
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50/32
54/39


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43.33
18.14
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4.6
0


When moving from Durham to Sacramento, you'll notice a significant increase in sunny days and a decrease in humidity levels, making Sacramento's climate feels drier. While Durham experiences more rainfall, Sacramento enjoys more consistency in sunny weather, which could be a pleasant change for those not fond of frequent rain. Additionally, understanding natural disaster risks is vital; Sacramento's wildfire and earthquake risks contrast with Durham's hurricanes and tornadoes. Adapting to these changes will be essential for a comfortable transition to your new home in Sacramento.

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

When planning your move from Durham, NC to Sacramento, CA, understanding the financial landscape of your new home is critical. This comparison aims to shine a light on the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic health between Durham and Sacramento , helping you make an informed decision about this significant change.

Durham
Sacramento
Avg. Household Income
$71,343
$75,311
Cost of Living Index
96.6
116.2
State Income Tax
5.25
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.84
0.73
Avg. Sales Tax
7.5
8.25
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Biotechnology
Government, Healthcare, Construction
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate
Homelessness
Concerning
High

While both Durham and Sacramento offer vibrant economies, there are notable differences in their financial landscapes. For instance, Sacramento boasts a higher average household income, which corresponds with its higher cost of living index. Taxes in Sacramento are also higher across the board, from sales tax to state income tax, affecting your net income. Despite these financial burdens, the economic opportunities in sectors like government and healthcare are significant. Understanding these nuances is key to preparing for your new life in a city that, despite its higher living costs, offers ample opportunities for prosperity.

Durham vs. Sacramento Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you'll find in Durham, NC compared to Sacramento, CA. By understanding these aspects, this comparison of the politics between Durham & Sacramento can help you anticipate the cultural environment you're moving into.

Durham
Sacramento
Political Make-up
Liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Democrat-led City Council
Democrat-led City Council
Religion
Diverse; notable Christian and Jewish communities
Diverse; significant Christian presence with growing Buddhist, Islamic, and Hindu communities

Both Durham and Sacramento share a liberal political makeup, with local governance largely under Democratic leadership, which could mean similar policies and social attitudes in both cities. Yet, when it comes to religion, while both cities boast a diversity of faiths, Sacramento displays a more varied religious landscape with growing Buddhist, Islamic, and Hindu communities alongside its significant Christian presence. This diversity enriches Sacramento's cultural fabric, offering newcomers a variety of religious communities and establishments to explore, like the Sacramento Buddhist Church and the Islamic Center of Sacramento.

Durham vs. Sacramento Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC, to Sacramento, CA, presents a chance to understand the differences between the cities, especially in terms of traffic and transportation options. Whether you’re planning your daily commute or exploring each city’s unique offerings, this comparison will help you set realistic expectations for your new life in Sacramento.

Durham
Sacramento
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24.9
26.2
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Possible, but challenging
More feasible, with restrictions

When comparing Durham and Sacramento, it's clear that both offer unique challenges and advantages in terms of transportation. While the average commute time in Sacramento is slightly longer, the city experiences more traffic congestion, reflecting its larger population and urban sprawl. However, Sacramento outperforms Durham in terms of public transit availability, thanks to a more extensive network of buses and light rail services that make navigating the city without a car more feasible. Nevertheless, both cities present certain limitations to living car-free, highlighting the importance of proximity to work or access to efficient public transit routes for a smoother daily commute.

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