Best Durham to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 695 mile move from North Carolina to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Durham to Detroit 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Detroit. 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 Detroit 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
4Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHG
5Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 695 miles from Durham, NC to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,372 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Detroit move is roughly $5,689. 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$1,596300 ft³$5.32
1 Bedroom$2,372450 ft³$5.27
2 Bedrooms$3,916750 ft³$5.22
3 Bedrooms$5,6891100 ft³$5.17
4 Bedrooms$8,1951600 ft³$5.12
5+ Bedrooms$9,1291800 ft³$5.07
*Please note: These North Carolina to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Michigan. 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 MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Detroit 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
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
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. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide is designed to simplify this process by comparing popular Durham, NC neighborhoods with similar neighborhoods in Detroit, MI . Whether you're seeking vibrant urban life or a quiet suburban retreat, this comparison will help you discover your new favorite area.

DurhamDetroitHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkIndian VillageHistorical homes, community feel
American Tobacco DistrictCorktownTrendy, revitalized warehouses
Old West DurhamWoodbridgeDiverse, artistic community
Hope ValleyRosedale ParkGreen, family-friendly with beautiful homes
Warehouse DistrictEastern MarketVibrant market life, burgeoning art scene
Duke ParkPalmer WoodsLush, spacious properties
BrightleafMidtownCultural hub, historic buildings
Ninth StreetGreektownBustling nightlife, rich history
RockwoodBoston-EdisonStately homes, quiet residential
Forest HillsSherwood ForestExclusive, with charming architecture

For individuals who enjoy the bustling nightlife and vibrant history of Ninth Street in Durham, Detroit's Greektown neighborhood offers a similar energy with a touch of its own unique cultural flavor. The Greektown area abounds with lively restaurants, such as the renowned Pegasus Taverna, and attractions like the Greektown Casino, providing an entertainment hub that mirrors Ninth Street's eclectic atmosphere. Similarly, those drawn to the lush locales and spacious properties of Duke Park might find a kindred spirit in Detroit's Palmer Woods. Known for its sprawling estates and ornate architecture, Palmer Woods also features beloved green spaces such as the Detroit Golf Club, which bolster the neighborhood's appeal for those in search of serene living within an urban context.

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Things to Do in Detroit

  • Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
  • Visit the Belle Isle Park
  • Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
  • Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
  • Discover the Henry Ford Museum
  • Experience the Motown Museum
  • Try local eats at Eastern Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Detroit

Moving from one city to another involves weighing both benefits and drawbacks to fully grasp the impact of your decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Durham, NC to Detroit, MI , highlighting the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By examining these factors side by side, you can make a more informed choice about your move.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher living costs
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less automotive industry
  • Warmer winters
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Lower housing costs
  • Larger urban area
  • Automotive capital
  • Snowy winters
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Colder winters
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Urban landscape
  • Less academic focus
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Warmer winters
  • Research Triangle jobs
  • Lush green spaces
  • Rich academic environment

Durham, NC, and Detroit, MI, each present unique living experiences, from climate to career opportunities. Durham enjoys milder winters and a bounty of green spaces, such as the Eno River State Park, enhancing residents' connection with nature. On the other hand, Detroit winters are markedly colder, offering a snowy landscape that can be enchanting. Detroit shines in its vibrant urban landscape, featuring landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts and historic Belle Isle Park. Relocating from Durham to Detroit might mean swapping the academic and tech-abundant environment of the Research Triangle for the auto industry hubs and rich cultural experiences found in places like the Motown Museum. Ultimately, this move involves embracing a transition from a smaller, academic-centric city to a larger, historically rich urban setting with its own set of pros and cons.

Durham vs. Detroit Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Detroit, taking a closer look at what each city offers. Understanding the distinctive food scene is crucial for grasping the local culture and enhancing your living experience in a new city.

Durham
Detroit
Most iconic local food item
Carolina-style BBQ
Coney Dog
Most popular meat dish
Pulled pork
Shawarma
Most popular street food item
Food Truck Tacos
Greek Gyros
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit
Vegan Coney
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nana's
  • Pompieri Pizza
  • Dame's Chicken & Waffles
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • American Coney Island
  • Selden Standard
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 local cuisine is rich with Southern charm, showcasing dishes like Carolina-style BBQ and pulled pork, particularly at iconic restaurants such as Nana's and Dame's Chicken & Waffles. The city prides itself on its innovative food truck scene, which can be found roaming the streets near Duke University and downtown, offering everything from gourmet tacos to vegan delights. On the other hand, Detroit's food scene is deeply influenced by its diverse cultural heritage, offering unique dishes like Coney Dogs and shawarma. The city's historical American Coney Island and the newer, yet equally esteemed Selden Standard and Slows Bar BQ, underscore Detroit's blend of traditional and modern culinary offerings. Both cities are accommodating to vegans, though Durham slightly edges out with its variety of plant-based options.

Durham vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison

Finding your new favorite eateries in Detroit by pairing them with the best of Durham is essential in making a new city feel like home. This comparison helps bridge the culinary gap for those moving from Durham, NC, to Detroit, MI, ensuring the transition is as delicious as it is smooth.

DurhamDetroitWhat You'll Love
NanaSteakLondon Chop HouseOffering a similarly upscale steakhouse experience with historical charm
Pizzeria ToroSupino PizzeriaKnown for excellent thin crust pizzas, much like its Durham counterpart
Mateo Bar de TapasLa FeriaA casual spot mirroring Mateo's Spanish tapas with a vibrant atmosphere
Mothers & Sons TrattoriaOttava ViaBoth feature Italian classics in a cozy, inviting setting
Saltbox Seafood JointVoyagerFocusing on fresh seafood in a laid-back environment, echoing Saltbox's ethos
Foster's MarketRose's Fine FoodOffering a similar artisanal diner experience with a focus on local products
The PitSlows Bar BQBoth are go-tos for BBQ lovers seeking a mix of traditional and innovative dishes
Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal ChickenPollo ChapinDelivers the essence of Latin American grilled chicken flavors in the heart of Detroit
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenAstro CoffeeWhile more focused on coffee, it offers a similar commitment to quality and atmosphere
Dame's Chicken & WafflesSavannahBlueSouthern cuisine with a twist, providing comfort food that rivals Dame's

When considering the transition from SavannahBlue in Detroit back to something familiar like Dame's Chicken & Waffles in Durham, the essence of Southern comfort food remains intact. SavannahBlue takes southern cuisine to a new level with an upscale twist, while Dame's provides a classic down-home comfort. Similarly, those missing Pizzeria Toro can take solace in Supino Pizzeria's authentic, thin-crust delights. Both establishments prioritize quality ingredients and traditional methods, ensuring that your pizza cravings are met with the best the city has to offer. Whether it's the casual elegance of tapas at La Feria, echoing Durham's Mateo Bar de Tapas, or the hearty embrace of Slows Bar BQ's innovative dishes, Detroit's culinary scene offers a comforting array of flavors for every Durham transplant.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the real estate market is crucial when moving from Durham, NC to Detroit, MI . This comparison will help you grasp the differences and similarities in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle between these two cities to make your transition smoother.

Durham
Detroit
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial Revival
Art Deco
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Gourmet kitchens, large backyards
Historic details, proximity to downtown

While both Durham and Detroit offer unique living experiences, each city has its distinct character. Durham's real estate market showcases homes with more space and gourmet kitchens, reflecting the city's suburban feel and culinary scene. On the other hand, Detroit's market is filled with historic homes featuring Art Deco architecture and is closer to urban amenities, reflecting the city’s rich history and ongoing revitalization. Despite their differences in median home prices and monthly rents, both cities provide a blend of livability factors such as walkability and bikeability, tailored to different lifestyles. Choosing between Durham's spacious, Colonial Revival homes and Detroit's historic, Art Deco properties will depend on your personal preferences and desired lifestyle.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI

1 Corktown : You'll love how many parks and walking trails are in Corktown, making it perfect for your daily outings with your pet.

2 Midtown : Midtown offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops where you and your furry friend can enjoy a relaxed outing together.

3 Royal Oak : Known for its dog parks and pet-friendly community events, Royal Oak is a haven for pet owners like you seeking an active lifestyle for your pets.

Durham vs. Detroit Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another influences many aspects of your life, especially when experiencing a significant change in weather. This guide aims to compare Durham and Detroit weather to better prepare you for the transition. Understanding these differences is vital for adjusting your lifestyle and planning for the varying conditions you will encounter.

Durham
Detroit
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, storms
Snowstorms, rare tornadoes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/69
83/63
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

52/32
35/22


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

41
33
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

6
34


When moving from Durham to Detroit, you'll notice significant differences in seasonal weather, particularly in winter. Detroit experiences harsher winters with more snowfall, averaging 34 inches annually compared to Durham's mild winters. This means you'll need to be prepared for snow and colder temperatures. On the other hand, summers in Detroit are somewhat cooler and more comfortable. Humidity levels are fairly comparable, though Detroit's higher average can make winter cold feel even chillier. The difference in sunshine days might also affect your daily lifestyle, as Detroit has fewer sunny days. Considering these variations will help you adjust your expectations and prepare adequately for your new environment in Detroit.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Durham, NC, to Detroit, MI, it's crucial to understand the financial implications. Comparing the cost of living, average income, and tax rates between Durham and Detroit will help you gauge how your financial situation might change. This chart breaks down key economic factors to consider.

Durham
Detroit
Avg. Household Income
$71,343
$36,140
Cost of Living Index
96.6
99.4
State Income Tax
5.25
4.25
Avg. Property Tax
0.86
2.44
Avg. Sales Tax
7.5
6
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Education, Health Services
Automotive, Technology, Health Care
Affluence
Moderate
Lower
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Low
High

The financial landscape differs significantly between Durham and Detroit. While Durham boasts a higher average household income and a slightly higher cost of living, Detroit offers a more affordable living index but with lower average incomes. The significant difference in average property tax rates, with Durham at 0.86% and Detroit at a much steeper 2.44%, is crucial for homeowners to consider. Additionally, while both cities share an emphasis on technology and health care within their top industries, the affluence and poverty levels starkly contrast, reflecting Detroit's ongoing economic recovery efforts.

Durham vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Durham, NC to Detroit, MI, it's helpful to understand the community you're joining. This comparison of the politics and religion between Durham & Detroit offers a quick snapshot of the political leanings and religious inclinations of their residents, providing insight into the cultural and social atmosphere of both cities.

Durham
Detroit
Political Make-up
Progressive/Liberal
Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on social equity and sustainability
Emphasis on economic revitalization and community health
Religion
Christianity dominant, with a diverse representation of faiths
Primarily Christian, including a significant Catholic population; historically significant Muslim community

In both Durham and Detroit, you'll find communities that value social and political engagement. Durham's progressive slant sees a strong push towards social equity and environmental sustainability, often reflected in local policy and community initiatives. Detroit, with a storied history of resilience and community strength, emphasizes economic revitalization and health. Religious life in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Detroit stands out for its historically significant Muslim community, reflecting a broader tapestry of religious diversity. Understanding these facets will help you appreciate the rich cultural and social landscapes of your new home.

Durham vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This guide seeks to compare the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Detroit, helping you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these cities. Whether you’re planning your move or simply exploring transit options, this comparison offers invaluable insights.

Durham
Detroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
24
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Moderately Possible

In Durham, the reliance on personal vehicles is somewhat higher due to the limited scope of public transit options, making it a bit more challenging to get by without a car. However, with a relatively short average commute time and lower traffic congestion, living in Durham does offer some ease in driving conditions. Contrastingly, Detroit has put efforts into improving its public transit system, making it moderately possible to navigate the city without owning a car. This is reflected in its slightly better public transit availability score. Yet, it's worth noting that Detroit faces higher traffic congestion, which can impact your daily commute time.

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