Best Seattle to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Seattle to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,869 mile move from Washington to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Seattle to Raleigh 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 Seattle Moves & More), 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 Seattle compared to Raleigh. 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 Seattle to Raleigh Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Seattle Moves & More9.569.39Authorized For HHG
2Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
3John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
4Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
5People Movers9.179.54Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,869 miles from Seattle, WA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $4,221 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Raleigh move is roughly $10,208. 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$2,829300 ft³$9.43
1 Bedroom$4,221450 ft³$9.38
2 Bedrooms$6,998750 ft³$9.33
3 Bedrooms$10,2081100 ft³$9.28
4 Bedrooms$14,7681600 ft³$9.23
5+ Bedrooms$16,5241800 ft³$9.18
*Please note: These Washington to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & 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 WA to NC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Seattle guide.

Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Raleigh Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,099+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
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
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 3,248+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (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.

Seattle vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that will compare the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Raleigh, NC . This comparison is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in Raleigh that feels like home, using your knowledge of Seattle's popular areas.

SeattleRaleighHow They're Similar
BallardOakwoodHistoric charm, vibrant food scene
Capitol HillGlenwood SouthNightlife, diverse dining
Queen AnneCameron VillageQuiet, family-friendly, shopping options
GreenwoodNorth HillsCommunity feel, shopping, and dining
FremontWarehouse DistrictArtsy, eclectic vibe
South Lake UnionDowntown RaleighTech hub, modern living
West SeattleFive PointsResidential, local businesses
Beacon HillBoylan HeightsHistoric homes, community-centric
WallingfordHillsboroughFamily-friendly, historic vibe
GeorgetownMordecaiIndustrial history, unique spots

For those accustomed to the buzzing nightlife and diverse culinary scene of Capitol Hill, Raleigh's Glenwood South will make you feel right at home with its lively bars and wide range of restaurants. On the other hand, if the historic charm and tight-knit community of Ballard captures your heart, you'll find a similar spirit in Oakwood, where historic homes line the streets and local eateries like Oakwood Pizza Box serve up neighborhood favorites. For those drawn to the artsy and eclectic atmosphere of Fremont, the Warehouse District in Raleigh offers an array of local art galleries, such as CAM Raleigh, and unique dining experiences, ensuring the creative spirit feels right at home. Whether you're looking for a place with a tech vibe similar to South Lake Union or the residential, community feel of West Seattle, Raleigh has neighborhoods that mirror these environments, providing both modern living spaces and areas rich with local businesses and community events.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Raleigh

Moving can be an overwhelming experience, particularly when it involves relocating across the country. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of both the positive and negative aspects of moving from Seattle, WA, to Raleigh, NC, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. By examining the cons and pros through detailed charts, this guide seeks to provide a balanced view of what to expect before making the big move.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High Cost of Living
  • Frequent Rain
  • Traffic Congestion
  • Less Southern Charm
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • Milder Winters
  • Less Traffic
  • Rich Southern Culture
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Fewer Tech Jobs
  • Lesser Green Spaces
  • Lesser Coffee Variety
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Vibrant Tech Scene
  • Abundant Nature
  • Rich Coffee Culture
  • Progressive Community

Moving from the bustling, rain-soaked streets of Seattle to Raleigh’s warm, inviting atmosphere brings significant changes, from climatic adjustments to varied cultural exposures. Seattle's affluent nature and tech-driven economy contrast with Raleigh's burgeoning tech scene and its embrace of rich historical and cultural roots. Raleigh boasts attractions like the renowned North Carolina Museum of History and the lush spaces of Umstead State Park, offering unique outdoor and educational experiences compared to Seattle's tech-centric and caffeinated environment. Whether savoring Raleigh’s Southern charm and slow pace of life or navigating its smaller yet growing tech landscape, the transition promises a blend of new opportunities amidst a backdrop of cultural and environmental shifts.

Seattle vs. Raleigh Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Raleigh, illustrating how food is an essential part of local culture and living experiences. If you're moving, being informed about the food scene is crucial for immersing yourself into your new surroundings.

Seattle
Raleigh
Most iconic local food item
Salmon
Barbecue pork
Most popular meat dish
Teriyaki
Pulled pork
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Food Trucks
Most popular vegan food
Pho
BBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Rover's (Closed)
  • Matt's in the Market
  • The Pit
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Mothers & Sons
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Seattle and Raleigh offer distinct culinary experiences reflective of their cultural landscapes. In Seattle, seafood, especially salmon, is iconic, and you can find exquisite dishes at places like Matt's in the Market overlooking the historic Pike Place Market. Teriyaki and vegan options, such as pho, are abundant, catering to a diverse palette. Raleigh, on the other hand, is famous for its barbecue pork, found in renowned spots like The Pit. The city’s food truck scene offers an adventurous street food experience, with BBQ jackfruit standing out as a popular vegan option. Raleigh’s appreciation for local cuisine is evident in its bustling foodie scene, making it an exciting place for new residents to explore.

Seattle vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

As you embark on a new journey from Seattle to Raleigh, finding comfort in familiar tastes is key to settling into your new home. This restaurant comparison between Seattle and Raleigh is designed to help bridge the gap between the familiar and the new, guiding you to find your next favorite dining spots. Let the exploration of flavors begin!

SeattleRaleighWhat You'll Love
CanlisSecond EmpireClassic elegance and a similar commitment to fine dining excellence
The Pink DoorGravyItalian-American cuisine with a charming atmosphere that echoes the uniqueness of The Pink Door
Pike Place Chowder42nd Street Oyster BarA go-to for seafood lovers craving that authentic chowder experience
MamnoonSittiOffers a taste of the Middle East with dishes that celebrate traditional flavors and modern twists
RevelBida MandaAlthough focusing on Laotian cuisine, it provides a similar adventurous approach to Asian flavors
Skillet DinerBeasley's Chicken + HoneyOffers comfort food with a unique twist, much like Skillet Diner
Toulouse Petit Kitchen & LoungeCrawford and SonWhile more American in focus, it shares Toulouse's attention to detail and cozy, upscale vibe
Dahlia LoungeDeath & TaxesBoth are known for their distinctive approach to local cuisine and innovative dishes
SalumiOakwood Pizza BoxFor a taste of artisan cured meats and pizzas that remind one of Salumi’s meticulous craft
AlturaHeronsExquisite dining with a focus on seasonal cuisine, echoing Altura’s luxurious dining experience

For those who have relished the flavors of Seattle’s diverse dining scene, Raleigh offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights that promise to enthrall your taste buds. Take, for example, the quintessential experience of reveling in Canlis' fine dining elegance which finds a counterpart in Raleigh's Second Empire, where the ambiance and culinary excellence serve as a beacon for food connoisseurs. Or perhaps the unique, invigorating flavors of Mamnoon; Sitti in Raleigh beckons with its authentic and modern twist on Middle Eastern cuisine, providing an exquisite blend of traditional and contemporary dishes that resonate with the essence of Mamnoon. Whether it’s the comforting allure of classic chowder or the adventure of exploring Laotian flavors, Raleigh’s varied menu is poised to usher in a sense of familiarity with a sprinkle of local flavor, making your transition not just about discovering a new city, but also about rediscovering the joy and comfort of well-loved dishes.

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Ready to start your move?

Seattle vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a cornerstone in planning a relocation. Understanding how Seattle, WA and Raleigh, NC compare in terms of housing cost, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle helps in making an informed decision. This comparison charts the core components of the housing market in both cities.

Seattle
Raleigh
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Craftsman
Colonial and Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views of Puget Sound, eco-friendly features
Spacious yards, proximity to Research Triangle Park

While both Seattle and Raleigh offer unique living experiences, the significant difference in median home prices and monthly rent indicates a more affordable housing market in Raleigh. Although Raleigh scores lower in walkability and bikeability, its architecture showcases spacious yards perfect for families. Conversely, Seattle's higher urban lifestyle score is attributed to its modern architecture, eco-friendly homes, and stunning views of Puget Sound. These factors play a vital role in determining the suitability of each city depending on personal preferences and lifestyle.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC

1. Five Points : You’ll love the convenient access to several dog-friendly parks and walking trails that make exercising and socializing with your pet enjoyable.

2. North Hills : This area offers pet-friendly apartments and a variety of outdoor spaces, including a nearby dog park, making it easy to live and play with your furry friend.

3. Glenwood South : With its numerous pet-welcoming cafes, bars, and community events, you and your pet can enjoy vibrant social activities together.

Seattle vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Seattle, WA to Raleigh, NC, it's crucial to understand how the weather differs between these two locations. This comparison will help you adjust to your new environment smoothly by highlighting key climatic features.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 55°F
89°F / 68°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 37°F
52°F / 32°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38
43
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

5
6


While both cities experience a mix of weather conditions, Raleigh offers warmer summers and slightly cooler winters compared to Seattle. The increased number of sunny days per year in Raleigh could be a welcome change for those accustomed to Seattle's frequent cloud cover. Furthermore, Raleigh's higher annual humidity levels might require some time to adjust to, especially during the peak summer months. Another consideration is the different types of natural disasters prevalent in each area, with Raleigh facing a higher risk of hurricanes and tornadoes, as opposed to the earthquakes and volcanoes more common in Seattle's vicinity. These factors are key in planning your move, suggesting a need for different preparations in terms of clothing, home maintenance, and even emergency planning.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and economic conditions in Seattle stack up against those in Raleigh. This comparison will provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially, helping you make an informed decision.

Seattle
Raleigh
Avg. Household Income
$110,781
$74,612
Cost of Living Index
121.4
98.2
State Income Tax
0
5.25
Avg. Property Tax
0.99
0.84
Avg. Sales Tax
10.1
7.25
Top 3 Industries
Technology, E-commerce, Aerospace
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

The transition from Seattle to Raleigh involves significant adjustments in financial planning due to distinct differences in the cost of living, taxation, and economic environments between the two cities. Raleigh presents a less expensive living situation, as indicated by its lower cost of living index and average sales tax. However, unlike Seattle, Raleigh has a state income tax. The top industries also shift from a heavy focus on technology and e-commerce in Seattle to a blend of technology, education, and healthcare in Raleigh. Understanding these nuances will be key in managing your finances more effectively in your new home.

Seattle vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Seattle, WA to Raleigh, NC requires understanding the communities you’re transitioning between. This quick-glance comparison gives you an insight into the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, helping you gauge the cultural atmosphere you're moving from and into.

Seattle
Raleigh
Political Make-up
Liberal
Lean Conservative
Local Politics
Progressive Policies
Moderate with some conservative leanings
Religion
Less Religiously Affiliated
Higher Religious Affiliation

Seattle is known for its liberal stance and progressive policies, reflecting a community that values diverse perspectives and inclusivity. In contrast, Raleigh has a more moderate to conservative leaning, though it's known for its welcoming nature regardless of one's political beliefs. When it comes to religion, Seattle's residents tend to be less religiously affiliated, embracing a wide array of spiritual and secular beliefs. Raleigh, influenced by its southern roots, has a higher percentage of residents identifying with a religious community, with local churches and religious institutions playing a central role in community life. Whether you're moving for new opportunities or seeking a change in scenery, understanding these aspects can help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.

Seattle vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can bring about significant lifestyle changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison is intended to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Seattle & Raleigh, from average commute times to the viability of living without a car. Discover the key differences to prepare for your move.

Seattle
Raleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
28
25
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible but challenging
Difficult

In Seattle, the average commute time might only be slightly longer than in Raleigh, but it's the traffic congestion and public transit options that mark significant contrasts. Seattle's congestion is notably higher, making public transit or biking more appealing options despite their own challenges. The city's investment in public transit rates it moderately well, supporting a lifestyle that's less dependent on a car. In contrast, Raleigh’s lower traffic congestion score reflects less overall delay, but its limited public transit options mean that having a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your daily life and how you plan your commute in your new city.

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