Best New York City to Durham Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from New York City to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 490 mile move from New York to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 69 New York City 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 JP Urban Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in New York City 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.

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Best New York City to Durham Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1JP Urban Moving9.869.78Authorized For HHG
2Metropolis Moving9.739.62Authorized For HHG
3Flex Moving and Storage9.709.74Authorized For Property, HHG
4Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
5Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from New York City to Durham?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 490 miles from New York City, NY to Durham, NC will cost on average $1,868 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to Durham move is roughly $4,473. 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$1,258300 ft³$4.19
1 Bedroom$1,868450 ft³$4.15
2 Bedrooms$3,082750 ft³$4.11
3 Bedrooms$4,4731100 ft³$4.07
4 Bedrooms$6,4391600 ft³$4.02
5+ Bedrooms$7,1671800 ft³$3.98
*Please note: These New York to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from New York & North Carolina. 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 NY to NC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to New York City guide.

Compare the 5 Best New York City to Durham Movers

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

JP Urban Moving Logo

JP Urban Moving

Exceptional9.86/10
based on 3,812+ data points

266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl

Brooklyn, NY, 11238

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...

Services

  • Local NYC Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving, Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2096754 / 882954

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Metropolis Moving Logo

Metropolis Moving

Exceptional9.73/10
based on 2,278+ data points

476 Jefferson St

Brooklyn, NY, 11237

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4277979 / 1662478

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Flex Moving and Storage Logo

Flex Moving and Storage

Exceptional9.70/10
based on 1,196+ data points

276 Greenpoint Ave 287, Suite

Brooklyn, NY, 11222

About Flex Moving and Storage

With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Long distance moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3610638 / 1229716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
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
4
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
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.

New York City vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison

Preparing to move can be daunting, especially when relocating to a completely new city. To ease the transition, it's helpful to compare popular neighborhoods in New York City, NY & Durham, NC . This comparison aims to help someone familiarize themselves with an unknown city by using their existing knowledge of their current city as a baseline. The intention is to match top neighborhoods from New York City with their most similar counterparts in Durham.

New York CityDurhamHow They're Similar
WilliamsburgCentral ParkVibrant arts scene, eclectic food
Upper East SideTrinity ParkHistoric homes, family-friendly
Greenwich VillageNinth StreetBohemian atmosphere, unique shops
SoHoWarehouse DistrictTrendy, art galleries
HarlemHayti DistrictRich cultural history, community events
Financial DistrictAmerican Tobacco DistrictRevitalized, commercial hub
DUMBOGolden BeltIndustrial chic, artist lofts
ChelseaBrightleafCreative spaces, local eateries
MidtownDowntown DurhamBustling, entertainment options
Upper West SideHope ValleyQuiet, upscale residential

For those enamored with the historic charm and upscale residential feel of New York City's Upper East Side, Trinity Park in Durham will feel like home, with its serene streets lined with historic homes and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. If you've enjoyed the eclectic and vibrant arts scene of Williamsburg, Central Park in Durham offers a similar vibe, hosting food truck rodeos and local farmer's markets that draw a diverse crowd. Lovers of SoHo's trendy art scene and upscale shopping will find Durham's Warehouse District a haven of creativity, featuring contemporary art galleries and chic dining experiences similar to those found in SoHo. Lastly, if the bohemian lifestyle and unique shops of Greenwich Village have been your go-to, Ninth Street in Durham mirrors this atmosphere, offering an eclectic mix of bookstores, cafes, and shops that cater to both the student population and local residents seeking a unique and quirky neighborhood feel.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to Durham

Moving from the bustling streets of New York City, NY, to the enchanting locales of Durham, NC, entails navigating a complex landscape of pros and cons. This detailed comparison aims to provide an honest reflection—highlighting both the benefits and challenges of such a relocation. Through discerning New York City's vigorous pace against Durham’s laid-back charm , we hope to illuminate the multifaceted nature of this transition.

CONs
PROs
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • High living costs
  • Crowded spaces
  • Noisy environment
  • Fast-paced lifestyle
  • Limited greenery
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • More open spaces
  • Quieter surroundings
  • Relaxed pace of life
  • Abundant greenery
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Lesser dining variety
  • Car-dependent
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Smaller communities
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Vibrant culture
  • Endless dining options
  • Public transportation
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Diverse communities

Leveraging the quieter surroundings and abundant greenery, Durham, NC offers a sensational change of pace for those accustomed to New York City's relentless hustle. Spaces like the Durham Central Park and Sarah P. Duke Gardens provide serene escapes not easily found in NYC. Though Durham may have a smaller cultural scene, it's still vibrant with gems like the Durham Performing Arts Center and unique dining experiences at places like Poole's Downtown Diner. The community might be smaller, but it's tightly-knit, offering a warm welcome to newcomers—a sharp contrast to NYC's sprawling, yet often impersonal, way of life.

New York City vs. Durham Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and the essence of living in any area. In this guide, we’ll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Durham to help you get acclimated to the culinary scene of your new home.

New York City
Durham
Most iconic local food item
Bagel with Lox
Barbecue Pork
Most popular meat dish
Pastrami Sandwich
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Hot Dog
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Bagel Sandwich
Vegan BBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Le Bernardin
  • Joe's Pizza
  • The Pit
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Viceroy
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 moving from New York City to Durham, you'll transition from the bagel and pastrami haven to a locale celebrated for its barbecue and innovative takes on classic Southern cuisine. Durham's food scene might surprise you with its depth and creativity, especially found in neighborhoods like Brightleaf and the American Tobacco District. Here, spots like The Pit offer traditional and modern takes on North Carolina BBQ, while Mateo Bar de Tapas presents a Southern twist on Spanish fare. Despite having a slightly smaller vegan scene than NYC, Durham is increasingly catering to plant-based diets, with places like Viceroy offering vegan options that delight even the most discerning foodies.

New York City vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in cuisine can significantly ease the transition to a new city. This restaurant comparison from New York City to Durham, NC aims to help you discover your next culinary haven by leveraging your familiar favorites as a guide.

New York CityDurhamWhat You'll Love
Le BernardinMateo TapasSpanish-style dining with an emphasis on seafood, echoing Le Bernardin's quality and presentation.
Katz's DelicatessenParker and OtisOffers a quality delicatessen experience, maintaining the iconic sandwich culture similar to Katz's.
Shake ShackOnlyBurgerA beloved local burger joint with a focus on quality ingredients and taste, akin to Shake Shack's philosophy.
Per SeThe Restaurant at The DurhamOffers a fine dining experience with meticulous attention to detail, much like Per Se.
Joe's PizzaPizzeria ToroKnown for their excellent wood-fired pizzas, capturing the essence of a classic New York slice.
CarboneGocciolinaA cozy Italian spot with a menu that rivals the authentic and bold flavors of Carbone.
Xi'an Famous FoodsHappy + HaleOffers a healthy and flavorful menu with items that remind one of Xi'an's distinctive spices and tastes.
Momofuku Noodle BarDashiA noodle bar in Durham that presents ramen with depth of flavor and innovation, echoing Momofuku's reputation.
Dominique Ansel BakeryLoafA bakery that provides inventive and high-quality pastries, much like the celebrated Dominique Ansel Bakery.
The Halal GuysMediTerra GrillWhile offering a broader menu, the essence of Middle Eastern flavors is very much alive, reminiscent of The Halal Guys.

While no two cities are exactly alike, the culinary jump from New York City's bustling, diverse food scene to Durham's vibrant gastronomy landscape is less daunting than one might think. Durham's Mateo Tapas captures the spirit of Le Bernardin with its Spanish-influenced seafood, demonstrating that quality dining experiences are a universal language. On the casual side, Parker and Otis echoes the charm of Katz's Delicatessen, ensuring that you won't miss out on enjoying a satisfying sandwich in your new city. For the nights when only a slice will do, Pizzeria Toro stands ready to deliver an experience reminiscent of stepping into Joe's Pizza. These establishments in Durham not only offer a taste of home but also invite you to explore and appreciate the local culinary culture.

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Ready to start your move?

New York City vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how housing characteristics like cost, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle compare between New York City and Durham can significantly impact your decision-making process.

New York City
Durham
Typical Architecture Style
Art Deco, Modern
Colonial, Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to subway, Views
Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods

Moving from New York City to Durham, you'll find a drastic difference in housing costs. The median home price and monthly rent in Durham are significantly lower, offering greater affordability. The lifestyle in Durham leans towards a quieter, more suburban atmosphere with larger yards being a common attribute in real estate listings, compared to the hustle and bustle of New York City which prides itself on its urban sprit, epitomized by its high walkability scores and iconic Art Deco and Modern architecture. This contrast extends to the typical lifestyle, with New York scoring higher in urbanity and walkability, indicative of its dense, lively character and readily accessible amenities.

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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.

New York City vs. Durham Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another brings many changes, among which weather plays a significant role in daily life. This guide compares the weather aspects of New York City, NY to Durham, NC , to help you understand how your new environment might feel different from what you are used to.

New York City
Durham
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
Winter storms, hurricanes
Hurricanes, tornadoes
Air Quality
Moderate
Good to Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

84°F / 69°F
89°F / 71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

39°F / 26°F
52°F / 33°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

49.9
47.8
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

25.8
4.6


Relocating to Durham from New York City, you'll experience milder winters and slightly hotter summers. The notable difference in winter temperature allows for a more comfortable outdoor experience during what would be colder months in NYC. Durham also sees a decrease in snowfall, which could mean less hassle during winter seasons but also fewer days enjoying snow-related activities. While both cities share concerns over natural disasters, the types and frequencies vary, with Durham facing a higher risk of hurricanes and tornadoes. For those sensitive to allergies, similar triggers exist in both environments, though the severity and timing might differ. These weather-related changes could impact your daily life and activities, making it crucial to prepare for a smoother transition.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Durham

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape of your new home is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the economic differences between New York City, NY, and Durham, NC , focusing on cost of living, taxes, and income to help you better prepare for your move.

New York City
Durham
Avg. Household Income
$67,997
$71,343
Cost of Living Index
185.8
96.6
State Income Tax
6.1 to 10.9
5.25 (flat)
Avg. Property Tax
0.88
0.84
Avg. Sales Tax
8.88
7.5
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Healthcare, Retail
Education, Healthcare, Technology
Affluence
Highly affluent areas mixed with middle-income
Moderately affluent
Poverty
Significantly present
Lesser extent than NYC
Homelessness
High visibility
Lower visibility

Moving from New York City to Durham will bring a significant change in your financial landscape. Notably, your money might go further in Durham due to a substantially lower cost of living index. The average household income is lower than NYC, but the reduced taxes and cost of living may balance this difference. Durham's flat state income tax rate, coupled with a lower sales tax, can result in noticeable savings on day-to-day expenditures. Furthermore, while both cities boast strong healthcare and education sectors, Durham's growing technology industry offers new job opportunities not as available in New York City. Understanding these financial facets will help you navigate your move and plan for a successful future in your new home.

New York City vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison

The relocation journey from New York City to Durham invites not only a change in scenery but a transition into distinct cultural landscapes. This analysis compares the politics between New York City & Durham , offering an initial glance at the political and religious composition of their populations, setting the stage for a more informed move.

New York City
Durham
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Diverse, with a significant focus on social issues
Community-oriented, progressive policies
Religion
Multifaceted, with a wide representation including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and more
Primarily Christian, with a growing diversity of faiths

While both New York City and Durham lean liberal politically, the scale and focus of political engagement differ significantly. New York's melting pot crafts a broad political spectrum, passionately covering global and national issues. In contrast, Durham adopts a more localized approach, with tight-knit communities driving progress in areas directly affecting their collective and individual lives. Religious life in Durham, though predominantly Christian, mirrors a broader trend of increasing diversity, a shift that New Yorkers moving to Durham might find familiar yet distinct. Understanding these nuances offers valuable insights into the cultural transition you're about to experience.

New York City vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from New York City, NY to Durham, NC, it's crucial to understand the differences in their traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to provide insight into what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like in each city.

New York City
Durham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
41
24
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
10 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

In New York City, the extensive public transit system means you can easily navigate the city without owning a car. The average commute time is longer due to higher traffic congestion, but the availability and convenience of public transit options like the subway and buses mitigate this. On the other hand, Durham's shorter commute times and lower congestion levels reflect a more car-dependent lifestyle. The public transportation in Durham is less extensive, making owning a car almost a necessity for getting around efficiently.

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