Best Durham to Richmond Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Durham to Richmond and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 152 mile move from North Carolina to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Durham to Richmond 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 $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Richmond. 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 Durham to Richmond Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 | Active |
2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.27 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Estes SureMove | 9.22 | 9.68 | Authorized For Property |
5 | On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA | 9.21 | 9.58 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Durham to Richmond?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 152 miles from Durham, NC to Richmond, VA will cost on average $1,624 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Richmond move is roughly $3,876. 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 | $1,095 | 300 ft³ | $3.65 |
1 Bedroom | $1,624 | 450 ft³ | $3.61 |
2 Bedrooms | $2,675 | 750 ft³ | $3.57 |
3 Bedrooms | $3,876 | 1100 ft³ | $3.52 |
4 Bedrooms | $5,570 | 1600 ft³ | $3.48 |
5+ Bedrooms | $6,190 | 1800 ft³ | $3.44 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham to Richmond Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

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 | - |

Athens Moving Experts

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
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) |

Capital Moving & Storage
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |

Estes SureMove
3901 W Broad St
Richmond, VA, 23230
About Estes SureMove
The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...
Services
- Home moving
- Employee relocations
- Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 121018 / 97275 Authorized For Property Carrier/Broker |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 9,075 |
Registered Drivers | 8,573 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 586,187,648 (2023) |

On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
424 E Grace St # 92
Richmond, VA, 23219
About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Moving Helpers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3865625 / 1413617 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,000 (2023) |

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.
Durham vs. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Richmond, VA, helping you to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by leveraging what you already know. Whether you're looking for bustling streets, serene parks, or historic charm, this comparison will help you find a slice of Durham in Richmond.
Durham | Richmond | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Brightleaf | Fan District | Historic homes, vibrant nightlife |
Trinity Park | Museum District | Near cultural institutions, green spaces |
Old West Durham | Carytown | Eclectic shops, dining options |
American Tobacco District | Scott's Addition | Industrial chic, breweries, and lofts |
Duke Park | Northside | Quiet, family-friendly with parks |
Rockwood | Bellevue | Quaint, with a strong community vibe |
Hope Valley | Windsor Farms | Upscale, large historic homes |
Woodcroft | Westover Hills | Wooded areas, close to nature trails |
Nine Streets | Libby Hill | Picturesque views, close-knit community |
Warehouse District | Manchester | Urban feel, waterfront views |
If you love the vibrant energy of Brightleaf in Durham, with its bustling nightlife and historic charm, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Richmond's Fan District, where historic homes line the streets and nightlife thrives. For those who appreciate the cultural and green spaces of Trinity Park, the Museum District in Richmond offers a blend of cultural institutions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and ample green spaces such as Monroe Park. If the unique, eclectic vibe of Old West Durham caught your heart, Carytown’s array of eclectic shops and dining options will definitely charm you. And for those drawn to the industrial chic and vibrant community of American Tobacco District, Scott's Addition in Richmond provides a dynamic neighborhood brimming with breweries, lofts, and a lively atmosphere, reminiscent of Durham's reimagined industrial spaces.

Things to Do in Richmond
- Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.
- Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
- View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
- Attend a concert at The National venue.
- Paddleboarding on James River.
- Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
- Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Richmond
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Durham, NC to Richmond, VA . By comparing the cons of Durham with the pros of Richmond and vice-versa, we provide a balanced view to help you make an informed decision.
- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer historical sites
- Less nightlife
- Larger cultural offerings
- Rich historical landscape
- Vibrant nightlife
- Smaller green spaces
- Less tech opportunities
- Higher living costs
- Lush green spaces
- Strong tech industry
- More affordable
When relocating from Durham to Richmond, you're moving towards a city with a more vibrant nightlife and richer cultural offerings. Richmond is home to historical sites like the American Civil War Museum and bustling areas such as Scott's Addition, known for its breweries and vibrant food scene. However, it's important to note that Richmond may offer smaller green spaces compared to Durham's lush parks, such as the Leigh Farm Park. Additionally, while Durham is praised for its strong tech industry presence and affordability, moving to Richmond might present fewer opportunities in tech and a slight increase in living costs. Weighing these factors will ensure a move that aligns best with your lifestyle and career aspirations.
Durham vs. Richmond Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Richmond spotlights how food reflects the distinctive culture and lifestyle of each location. Understanding the differences can help you better integrate into the food scene of your new city.
- Bull City Burger and Brewery
- Pompieri Pizza
- Mateo Bar de Tapas
- Stella’s
- Mama J’s Kitchen
- The Roosevelt
When moving to Richmond, you're stepping into a robust food scene where Southern comfort meets inventive culinary art. The acclaimed Mama J’s Kitchen is a testament to Richmond's deep-rooted soul food tradition, while Stella’s offers a taste of Greek cuisine, highlighting the city's diverse palate. Vegan food is rapidly growing in popularity, with establishments like The Roosevelt offering creative and tasty vegan options. Richmond’s food trucks, although slightly less in number compared to Durham, bring a vibrant street food scene that's hard to miss, especially during the city’s many festivals hosted in neighborhoods like The Fan and Church Hill.
Durham vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home starts with finding those perfect dining spots. This Durham to Richmond restaurant comparison is designed to help you transition smoothly, uncovering your next favorite places to dine by linking your old favorites to new ones. Dive in to discover where your taste buds will be delighted next.
Durham | Richmond | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Mateo Bar de Tapas | Barcelona Wine Bar | Spanish-inspired small plates with a vibrant atmosphere. |
M Sushi | Osaka | Premier sushi and authentic Japanese offerings. |
Pizzeria Toro | Belmont Pizzeria | Traditional, wood-fired pizzas in a cozy setting. |
Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Mama J's | Comfort food with a soulful twist. |
Bull City Burger and Brewery | Burger Bach | Gourmet burgers with local ingredients and a craft beer selection. |
The Pit | ZZQ | Artisanal Texas-style barbecue with a loyal following. |
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Sub Rosa Bakery | Exquisite baked goods in a rustic and welcoming environment. |
Vin Rouge | Can Can Brasserie | Authentic French cuisine in an elegant brasserie setting. |
Durham Filling Station | The Daily | Modern eatery with a focus on sustainability and fresh, local ingredients. |
Nana's Restaurant | Metzger Bar & Butchery | Farm-to-table ethos with a modern European twist. |
For those moving from Durham to Richmond, finding the equivalent dining experiences can offer a sense of continuity and comfort. Belmont Pizzeria will remind you of the handcrafted pies from Pizzeria Toro, with its dedication to traditional pizza-making techniques and flavors. Meanwhile, ZZQ's commitment to genuine Texas-style barbecue offers a taste of The Pit's famous slow-cooked meats without leaving Virginia. For a unique bakery experience, Sub Rosa Bakery in Richmond mirrors Guglhupf's blend of artisan bread, pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for those lazy weekend brunches. These establishments not only provide similar culinary delights but also embody the spirit and community vibe of their counterparts, ensuring that your transition to Richmond is as flavorful as it is seamless.

Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts the decision-making process when relocating. Understanding how Durham, NC and Richmond, VA compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more is crucial for a well-informed move.
When comparing the housing aspects between Durham and Richmond, several differences stand out that might influence your moving decision. Home prices and rent tend to be slightly higher in Durham, reflecting its burgeoning tech industry and proximity to top-tier universities like Duke. On the other hand, Richmond offers a rich tapestry of history and a higher urban lifestyle score, courtesy of its historic architecture, from charming Victorian homes to stately Colonial buildings, echoing the city's deep historical roots. Richmond's more favorable walkability and bikeability scores suggest a lifestyle less dependent on a car, with vibrant neighborhoods like The Fan providing ample dining, shopping, and cultural experiences within a short distance, thereby potentially offering a more connected and immersive urban living experience.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA
1. The Fan District : You'll find plenty of parks and walking paths for exercising your pets as well as pet-friendly cafes where you can relax with your furry friend.
2. Carytown : This vibrant area offers numerous pet-friendly patios and shops, making it a great place to explore with your pet by your side.
3. Church Hill : Enjoy the wide streets and open spaces perfect for dog walks, plus the community is very welcoming to pet owners with several pet-themed events throughout the year.
Durham vs. Richmond Weather Considerations
When relocating, understanding the climatic changes between your current and new home is crucial. This comparison between Durham, NC, and Richmond, VA highlights key weather differences to help you anticipate what to expect. By considering these variances, you can better adapt to your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Both Durham and Richmond experience hot, humid summers and mild winters, but there are slight differences that might affect your daily life. For instance, Richmond typically experiences a bit more snowfall in winter than Durham, which might necessitate more winter gear or snow removal plans. Air quality also slightly differs, with Richmond exhibiting moderate levels that might impact those with respiratory issues more than in Durham. Understanding these nuances ensures you can better prepare for your new environment, from wardrobe changes to health considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Richmond
When considering a move from Durham, NC to Richmond, VA, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison will highlight the differences in average household income, cost of living, taxes, and the economic landscape between Durham and Richmond, allowing you to make an informed decision.
While the average household incomes in Durham and Richmond are quite similar, there are noticeable differences in the cost of living and taxation that could affect your financial well-being after the move. Durham boasts a lower cost of living index and sales tax but has a slightly higher property tax rate compared to Richmond. Additionally, the state income tax rate is marginally higher in Richmond. Both cities present moderate affluence levels, but Richmond's noticeable homelessness rate compared to Durham's minimal rate may reflect broader socio-economic contrasts. Understanding these differences can help you prepare financially for your move.
Durham vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison
In planning your move from Durham, NC, to Richmond, VA, it's insightful to understand the communities you’re transitioning between. This quick overview offers a comparison of the politics and religion between Durham & Richmond , providing a glimpse into the cultural and social makeup of these vibrant cities.
While both Durham, NC, and Richmond, VA, share liberal leanings politically, the nuances of local governance and community participation could vary. Each city boasts a Democratic stronghold in terms of city governance, reflecting a broader political consensus among residents. Faith plays an integral role in the cultural fabric of both locations, with Christianity being the predominant religion. However, both cities embrace a diversity of faiths, offering numerous places of worship and spiritual communities. This shared political and religious landscape forms just part of the vibrant, diverse cultures that you will encounter in your move.
Durham vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in Durham, NC, and Richmond, VA, is essential for anyone considering a move. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect regarding your daily commute and traffic in these two vibrant cities.
While the average commute times in Durham and Richmond are relatively close, with Richmond being slightly higher, there are significant differences in traffic congestion and public transit availability. Durham residents may find it more challenging to navigate the city without a car due to the lower public transit score. On the other hand, Richmond offers a more robust public transit system, making it moderately easy for residents to get by without a car. These factors are crucial to consider for anyone planning their move, as they significantly impact the daily quality of life and commuting experience.



Additional Resources
Durham Moving Services
Popular Durham to Virginia Routes
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