Best Raleigh to Norfolk Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Raleigh to Norfolk and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 184 mile move from North Carolina to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Raleigh to Norfolk 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 Raleigh compared to Norfolk. 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 Raleigh to Norfolk Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
2Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
3Marathon Moving Services9.299.25Authorized For HHG
4Capital Moving & Storage9.279.47Authorized For HHG
5Prime Movers USA9.099.39Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Raleigh to Norfolk?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 184 miles from Raleigh, NC to Norfolk, VA will cost on average $1,647 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Norfolk move is roughly $3,933. 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$1,111300 ft³$3.70
1 Bedroom$1,647450 ft³$3.66
2 Bedrooms$2,713750 ft³$3.62
3 Bedrooms$3,9331100 ft³$3.58
4 Bedrooms$5,6521600 ft³$3.53
5+ Bedrooms$6,2821800 ft³$3.49
*Please note: These North Carolina to Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Virginia. 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 VA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Norfolk to Raleigh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Norfolk 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
Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 970+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 576+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (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.

Raleigh vs. Norfolk Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can feel daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide aims to ease this process by providing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Norfolk, VA. You'll discover the closest equivalents in Norfolk to your favorite Raleigh neighborhoods, helping you transition smoothly to your new city.

RaleighNorfolkHow They're Similar
North HillsGhentVibrant arts and dining scene
Boylan HeightsFreemason DistrictHistoric, walkable streets
Five PointsColonial PlaceEclectic homes, water views
OakwoodGhentHistoric homes, community feel
Cameron VillageChelseaBoutique shopping, local eats
MordecaiRiverviewFamily-friendly, historic vibe
Glenwood SouthDowntown NorfolkNightlife, urban living
Brier CreekWards CornerShopping conveniences, suburban feel
Warehouse DistrictNEON DistrictArts, culture, and innovation
Hayes BartonAlgonquin ParkElegant homes, lush landscapes

If you're attracted to Raleigh's North Hills for its lively atmosphere and plethora of dining and shopping options, you'll find Ghent in Norfolk a perfect substitute with its own vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries like The Public House. Similarly, Cameron Village shoppers will feel at home in Chelsea, where unique boutiques and local restaurants abound. For those who enjoy the historic and picturesque streets of Boylan Heights, the Freemason District offers a comparative charm with its cobblestone streets and waterfront views, highlighting notable sites such as the Freemason Abbey Restaurant. Whether you're seeking the urban vibe of Glenwood South or the eclectic, family-friendly environment of Five Points, Norfolk provides appealing counterparts that will make your new neighborhood feel like home.

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Things to Do in Norfolk

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Norfolk

Moving from one city to another invites a mix of emotions and considerations. This side-by-side comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Norfolk, VA. By weighing the attributes of your current locale against those of your prospective new home, you can make a more informed decision about this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Less maritime culture
  • Smaller urban parks
  • Less seafood variety
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Rich naval heritage
  • Larger city parks
  • Diverse seafood options
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Smaller green areas
  • More limited culture scene
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Expansive green spaces
  • Rich cultural activities

While both Raleigh and Norfolk offer unique advantages, it's the specific aspects like maritime culture and seafood that set Norfolk apart. Norfolk is home to the world's largest naval base, and living here means you're in the midst of this rich heritage. The city is dotted with expansive parks such as Town Point Park that often host waterfront festivals. Norfolk's dining scene, especially for seafood lovers, is vibrant with spots like Grain and Saltine offering fresh and creative catches. Conversely, Raleigh's tech scene and array of cultural activities from venues like the North Carolina Museum of History to annual events like the North Carolina Science Festival are some of the highlights you might miss. Each city boasts its character and lifestyle—making the decision to move a truly personal one based on what attributes of city life you value most.

Raleigh vs. Norfolk Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Norfolk to enlighten you about the food scene in both cities. Understanding local cuisine is vital as food plays a significant role in local culture and the living experience in a new area.

Raleigh
Norfolk
Most iconic local food item
Eastern North Carolina Barbecue
Chesapeake Bay Crab
Most popular meat dish
Pulled Pork
Seafood Platter
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Oyster Po' Boy
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Seitan Norfolk-Style BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Bida Manda
  • The Angus Barn
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Raleigh, you're entering a world where Eastern North Carolina Barbecue, particularly pulled pork, sets the benchmark for local cuisine, signaling a deep appreciation for traditional smoking techniques. It's easy to indulge in this iconic dish at places like The Pit, nestled in the Warehouse District, which showcases Raleigh's vibrant food scene. Moving on to Norfolk, the fresh catch from Chesapeake Bay, especially crab, dominates the local palate. Restaurants like Saltine offer a glimpse into Norfolk's seafood supremacy, situated in the heart of the city near bustling Granby Street. This transition not only introduces you to diverse culinary landscapes but also brings you closer to the heart and soul of each city through its most beloved dishes.

Raleigh vs. Norfolk Restaurant Comparison

Discovering local dining spots is an essential part of making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Raleigh and Norfolk will guide you to your new go-to eateries, offering a taste of familiarity in a new city. Small changes can make a big difference in feeling settled.

RaleighNorfolkWhat You'll Love
Bida MandaLemongrass GrilleOffers a similar focus on fresh, vibrant Southeast Asian flavors
Poole's DinerHandsome BiscuitBoth offer a unique twist on Southern classics
Brewery BhavanaCoelacanth BrewingBoth serve up craft beers in a communal, inviting space
Death & TaxesChartreuse BistroEuropean techniques meet local ingredients in both kitchens
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyDoumar's Cones and BBQBoth are iconic for their approach to comfort food
Crawford and SonNo Frill Bar and GrillBoth offer elevated dining without the fuss
GarlandA.W. ShucksSimilar intrigue in flavors and ingredients, with a focus on fusion
CentroJessy's Taco BistroBoth celebrated for their authentic and creative take on Mexican cuisine
StanburyToastAn emphasis on innovative dishes in a casual, yet refined setting
Ashley Christensen RestaurantsOmar's Carriage HouseComparable ethos in farm-to-table dining and unique menus

Each restaurant pairing, like Poole's Diner and Handsome Biscuit, reveals a unique story of culinary creativity and a commitment to reinventing traditional flavors. At Handsome Biscuit, you'll indulge in sweet potato biscuits that echo the innovation found in Poole's Diner's modern Southern dishes. Transitioning your palate from Raleigh's vibrant Garland to Norfolk's eclectic A.W. Shucks, you will continue to explore bold flavors and fusion cuisines, ensuring that your move is flavored with excitement. This guide is not just about finding places to eat; it's about continuing your culinary adventure in a new city with confidence and gusto.

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Raleigh vs. Norfolk Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor in deciding to move. Understanding how Raleigh, NC and Norfolk, VA compare in terms of housing will guide your decision. This comparison covers aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

Raleigh
Norfolk
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Colonial
Victorian and Cape Cod
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Open floor plans, energy efficiency
Waterfront views, historical features

When examining the differences between Raleigh and Norfolk, the contrast in median home prices and monthly rent fees reveals varied costs of living. Raleigh's slightly higher prices reflect its rapid growth and modern amenities, often showcasing homes with open floor plans and energy efficiency. On the other hand, Norfolk's affordability is complemented by its scenic waterfront views and rich history, evident in its Victorian and Cape Cod-style homes. Walkability and bikeability in Norfolk also marginally outscore Raleigh, indicating a more appealing urban lifestyle for those who prefer to navigate their city on foot or by bike.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Norfolk, VA

1. Ghent : This charming area includes several parks and sidewalks for easy walks, along with pet-friendly cafes where you can relax with your furry friend.

2. Larchmont-Edgewater : Known for its spacious yards and access to dog-friendly trails, this neighborhood is ideal for giving your pet plenty of room to explore.

3. Downtown Norfolk : Offering numerous pet-friendly apartments and vibrant pet-approved events, this area lets you and your pet enjoy the urban scene together.

Raleigh vs. Norfolk Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Norfolk, VA, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust better to your new environment. The following chart provides a detailed look at various weather conditions you'll encounter, ensuring you're well-prepared for the change.

Raleigh
Norfolk
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tornadoes
Hurricanes, Flooding
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/68
87/71
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50/31
48/33


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

45
47
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4
5


Although Raleigh and Norfolk share similar average temperatures in both summer and winter, there are subtle differences. Norfolk experiences slightly more moderate summers and milder winters compared to Raleigh. Moreover, the slightly higher annual rainfall and snowfall in Norfolk might require a minor adjustment in your outdoor activities and wardrobe. Most notably, the air quality and natural disaster risks vary between the two, with Norfolk facing challenges related to hurricanes and flooding. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for life in Norfolk.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Norfolk

When considering relocating from Raleigh, NC to Norfolk, VA, it's critical to evaluate the financial differences you'll encounter. This comparison will illuminate the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic health between Raleigh and Norfolk, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

Raleigh
Norfolk
Avg. Household Income
$74,612
$58,591
Cost of Living Index
98.2
96.6
State Income Tax
5.25
5.75
Avg. Property Tax
0.86
1.07
Avg. Sales Tax
7.25
6.0
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Military, Shipping, Tourism
Affluence
Comfortable
Moderate
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Minimal
Moderate

While Raleigh has a higher average household income and cost of living index, Norfolk offsets these factors with a slightly lower sales tax, which may reduce everyday expenses. Significant is the difference in top industries, reflecting the unique economic climates of each city: Raleigh thrives on technology, education, and healthcare, suggesting a robust job market for professionals in these sectors, whereas Norfolk's economy is heavily influenced by military, shipping, and tourism sectors, indicative of its strategic coastal location. Understanding these nuances can significantly impact your financial well-being and quality of life post-move.

Raleigh vs. Norfolk Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Norfolk, VA? Here's a quick glimpse to help you understand the transition better, providing a at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents comparing Raleigh & Norfolk . This comparison aims to give you a better understanding of the local community you'll be joining.

Raleigh
Norfolk
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive in urban areas
Mixed, with military influence
Religion
Christianity dominant, diverse religious presence
Moderately religious, with Christianity being predominant

In both Raleigh and Norfolk, you will find communities where political opinions are strong, though the cities lean Democratic, reflecting their urban demographics. Raleigh is known for its progressive stance in urban areas, a trend that can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. The military presence in Norfolk introduces a more varied political landscape. For those interested in religious affiliations, Christianity plays a significant role in both cities, with Raleigh showcasing a broader diversity in religious presence. Moving between these cities, you'll find the values that underpin community life have similarities but are expressed in unique ways that reflect the local culture and history.

Raleigh vs. Norfolk Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Norfolk, VA and curious about your daily commute and traffic? This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Norfolk will help you understand what to expect and how to plan your day more effectively.

Raleigh
Norfolk
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
23
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Feasible

Raleigh and Norfolk offer their own unique challenges and advantages when it comes to commuting. In Raleigh, public transit options are less abundant, making car dependency higher. On the other hand, Norfolk, with its slightly better public transit rating, suggests a mildly lower reliance on personal vehicles. Interestingly, the average commute time is slightly shorter in Norfolk, potentially due to its less congested roads or more efficient public transit systems. This subtle distinction could make living in Norfolk without a personal vehicle more feasible than in Raleigh, especially for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint or navigate the city in a more budget-friendly manner.

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