Best Cary to Charlotte Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Cary to Charlotte and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 165 mile long distance North Carolina move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 152 Cary to Charlotte 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 Dogwood Moving Co.), 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 Cary compared to Charlotte. 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 Cary to Charlotte Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dogwood Moving Co. | 9.82 | 9.77 |
| 2 | Reign Moving Solutions | 9.61 | 9.62 |
| 3 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 |
| 4 | Gentle Giant Moving Company | 9.43 | 8.96 |
| 5 | J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer | 9.40 | 9.46 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Cary to Charlotte?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 165 miles from Cary, NC to Charlotte, NC will cost on average $1,633 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cary to Charlotte move is roughly $3,899. 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 | $1,102 | 300 ft³ | $3.67 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,633 | 450 ft³ | $3.63 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,690 | 750 ft³ | $3.59 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,899 | 1100 ft³ | $3.54 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,603 | 1600 ft³ | $3.50 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,227 | 1800 ft³ | $3.46 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charlotte to Cary guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cary to Charlotte Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Dogwood Moving Co.
6192 Beale Loop
Raleigh, NC, 27616
About Dogwood Moving Co.
Dogwood is a new local moving company that started in 2020 and serves as one of the movers in Raleigh, NC....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3376522 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 16 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
Reign Moving Solutions
Rock Hill, SC
About Reign Moving Solutions
Reign Moving Solutions is a family owned and operated moving company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They have been in business...
Services
- Packing & Unpacking
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3524609 / 1171156 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2020) |
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 | - |
Gentle Giant Moving Company
3827 Barringer Dr
Charlotte, NC, 28217
About Gentle Giant Moving Company
Gentle Giant Moving Company was founded in 1980, and today has locations across the US, including one in North Carolina. Serving...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer
113 N Benjamine St
Durham, NC, 27703
About J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer
J.E. Ladd & Son Transfer is a local family business that provides professional moving services in Durham, Chapel Hill, and the...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Piano moving services
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.
Cary vs. Charlotte Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a monumental task, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we're providing a comparison of local neighborhoods between Cary, NC & Charlotte, NC. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by pinpointing neighborhoods in Charlotte that share the essence of your favorite spots in Cary.
| Cary | Charlotte | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Preston | Ballantyne | Family-friendly, golf-courses |
| Amberly | Ayrsley | Modern mixed-use, community vibe |
| Carpenter Village | Cotswold | Quaint, shopping & amenities |
| Lochmere | Meyers Park | Lush parks, upscale living |
| Regency | SouthPark | Exclusive, sophisticated shopping |
| Wellington Park | Elizabeth | Historic, charming community |
| Twin Lakes | Plaza Midwood | Eclectic, vibrant nightlife |
| MacGregor Downs | Dilworth | Historic homes, friendly atmosphere |
| Weston Pointe | NoDa | Artsy, walkable neighborhood |
| Highcroft | Wesley Heights | Growing, near uptown |
If you're moving from Cary and love the lush, green expanses of neighborhoods like Lochmere, you'll find Myers Park in Charlotte a breathtaking replacement, with its sprawling estates and winding streets under a canopy of centuries-old oaks. For those who thrive in vibrant, eclectic communities like Twin Lakes, Plaza Midwood offers an upbeat blend of flavorful restaurants, hip galleries, and unique boutiques. On the other hand, if the exclusive ambiance and sophisticated shopping of Regency draw you in, SouthPark's elegant charm and upscale retail establishments, such as SouthPark Mall, would be your go-to, encapsulating luxury living with a metropolitan flair.
Things to Do in Charlotte
Explore Carowinds amusement park.- Stroll through Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
- Visit the Mint Museum.
- Watch a game at Truist Field.
- Enjoy U.S. National Whitewater Center activities.
- Relax at Freedom Park.
- Tour Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Cary to Charlotte
Moving from one city to another is a monumental decision that requires weighing both the positive and negative aspects of such a change. In this case, understanding the dynamics between Cary, NC, and Charlotte, NC , is crucial for anyone considering this relocation. The following charts aim to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Cary to Charlotte.
Cary, NC- Higher living costs
- Smaller job market
- Less diverse nightlife
- Lower public transit access
- Smaller city vibe
Charlotte, NC- More affordable
- Larger job market
- Vibrant nightlife
- Better public transit
- Big city feel
Charlotte, NC- Noisier environment
- Varied school quality
- More impersonal
- Higher crime rates
- Fewer parks
Cary, NC- Quiet neighborhoods
- Excellent public schools
- Close community feel
- Lower crime rates
- Abundant green spaces
In considering a move from Cary to Charlotte, it's important to explore beyond just the basics. For example, Charlotte's vibrant nightlife includes popular spots like NoDa, the city’s historic arts and entertainment district, known for its live music venues and seasonal festivals. Cary, known for its quieter, family-friendly atmosphere, boasts highly-rated public schools and expansive parks such as Fred G. Bond Metro Park. Furthermore, while Cary offers a small-town vibe, Charlotte provides the allure of a big city with a robust job market, like the opportunities found in the Charlotte Center City, making it an attractive spot for career advancements. Navigating through these changes requires understanding both the comforts you're leaving behind and the new adventures awaiting you.
Cary vs. Charlotte Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and experiencing what it's like to live in a new area. As part of your journey from Cary to Charlotte, we’ll dive into the culinary scenes of both locales. Through this comparison, we hope to offer insights into what awaits your palate. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Cary & Charlotte to help you get a taste of your new home.
- Ashworth’s Drug Store
- Bosphorus
- La Taqueria Feliz
- Fahrenheit
- Mert’s Heart & Soul
- The Fig Tree Restaurant
Charlotte stands out with its vibrant food truck scene and higher fitness/health conscientiousness, indicative of the city's larger size and more diverse population. Here, you'll find a strong emphasis on meat dishes, especially Brisket, and an exciting array of street food, with Tacos being a local favorite. For food enthusiasts, neighborhoods like NoDa and South End are must-visits for their eclectic range of eateries, including Fahrenheit and Mert’s Heart & Soul, which reflect the richness of Charlotte's food scene. The city is also more accommodating to vegan preferences, offering a wide variety of options like the popular Seitan Wings. Whether you're a foodie, a fitness enthusiast, or someone in between, Charlotte's dynamic food landscape is bound to impress.
Cary vs. Charlotte Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a time of exciting transformations, and finding your new favorite dining spots plays a big role in feeling settled. This restaurant comparison chart Cary to Charlotte is designed to smooth your culinary transition, helping you swap out your old favorites for new ones in your soon-to-be hometown.
| Cary | Charlotte | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Farm Bakery | Amélie's French Bakery & Café | Both offer an authentic French patisserie experience, from the croissants to the ambience. |
| Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Haberdish | Southern fare with a modern twist, emphasizing local ingredients and traditional techniques. |
| Bosphorus | Le Kebab Grill | Authentic Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on Turkish dishes and a cozy dining experience. |
| Pizzeria Faulisi | Capishe: Real Italian Kitchen | Both celebrate Neapolitan pizzas with an emphasis on quality ingredients and wood-fired ovens. |
| CineBistro | Studio Movie Grill | Offering a premium movie dining experience with gourmet food and cocktails served right to your seat. |
| La Panadería Chichen-Itza | Manolo's Bakery | Both are authentic Latin American bakeries offering a range of sweets and breads unique to their culture. |
| Tasu Asian Bistro | CO | Modern Asian cuisine with a stylish setting, emphasizing sushi and craft cocktails. |
| Academy Street Bistro | Fahrenheit | Elevated American cuisine with a focus on innovative dishes and stunning city views. |
| Herons | 5Church Charlotte | Gourmet dining with a focus on artistic presentation and a farm-to-table approach. |
| Doherty's Irish Pub & Restaurant | The Workman's Friend | Embraces the hearty, comforting essence of Irish pubs, with a selection of beers and traditional dishes. |
Exploring the culinary scene is an integral part of getting to know your new city. Whether it's the artisanal bread and pastries at Amélie's French Bakery & Café that remind you of mornings at La Farm Bakery in Cary, or the contemporary Southern dishes at Haberdish offering a taste of what you loved at Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen, Charlotte's diverse food scene has equivalents that promise not to disappoint. For a special night out, the upscale dining experience at 5Church Charlotte can compete with the elegance of Herons. Each of these Charlotte establishments not only offers a menu to satiate former Cary residents but also an ambience that makes dining out feel like a special occasion.
Ready to start your move?
Cary vs. Charlotte Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, diving deep into the real estate landscape is pivotal. It's essential to grasp how Cary and Charlotte align and differ in this critical domain. This comparison will illuminate the nuances of housing, helping you make an informed decision.
While Cary and Charlotte offer unique living experiences, their differences in the real estate market are noteworthy. The median home price in Cary is notably higher, reflecting its smaller, more affluent community with a preference for transitional architecture. In contrast, Charlotte's more accessible median home prices and monthly rents cater to a wider range of buyers and renters, bolstered by the city's colonial revival architecture. Charlotte scores higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, indicating a more urban-centric living experience, with amenities and activities closely linked to its vibrant Uptown area. This stark contrast in the living environment and urban offerings between Cary and Charlotte makes each city appealing based on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC
1. South End : You'll love its abundance of green spaces and pet-friendly patios that make daily outings with your pet both easy and enjoyable.
2. NoDa (North Davidson) : With its pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks, NoDa offers you a vibrant atmosphere where your pet is always welcome.
3. Plaza Midwood : Known for its walkable streets and community events, Plaza Midwood lets you and your pet enjoy the neighborhood together without any hassle.
Cary vs. Charlotte Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Cary, NC to Charlotte, NC, it's crucial to compare how the weather differs between these two locations. Understanding these variations can help you better prepare for your new home environment. This comparison will illuminate the Cary vs. Charlotte weather patterns, providing insights on temperatures, humidity, and more to assist in your transition.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While Cary and Charlotte share similar weather patterns, there are subtle differences worth noting. Charlotte enjoys slightly more days of sunshine annually, which might be pleasant for those who love the outdoors. However, it also experiences a tad more humidity and has a moderate air quality compared to Cary's good rating, possibly due to its larger size and higher population density. Both cities face the risk of hurricanes and tornadoes, yet Charlotte sees slightly less snowfall annually. Considering these factors can ease your adjustment from Cary to Charlotte, as you'll know what to anticipate weather-wise.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to Charlotte
When embarking on a move from one city to another, it's critical to weigh the financial contrasts to gauge how your budget and lifestyle might shift. This comparison aims to highlight the financial differences between Cary, NC, and Charlotte, NC , offering insights into how the cost of living, taxes, and income levels diverge, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new surroundings.
In analyzing the difference between Cary and Charlotte, it's evident that Cary boasts a significantly higher average household income and affluence level, which correlates with its higher cost of living index. Despite these differences, the state income tax and average sales tax rates are consistent across both cities, simplifying tax considerations for residents moving between these locations. While Cary tends to attract professionals in technology, education, and healthcare, Charlotte’s economy is buoyed by the finance, airlines, and energy sectors, offering diverse employment opportunities despite its moderate affluence and higher poverty and homelessness rates.
Cary vs. Charlotte Political & Religious Comparison
In preparation for your move from Cary, NC, to Charlotte, NC, it's essential to understand the communities you're entering and leaving behind. This quick guide offers a comparison of the politics between Cary & Charlotte , intended to give you a snapshot of the political and religious landscape in both cities.
While both Cary and Charlotte lean Democratic, Charlotte displays a stronger preference toward Democratic policies, reflecting its larger and more diverse population. The governance in Cary tends to focus on development and education in its suburban setting, whereas Charlotte's urban governance lays emphasis on economic growth and welcoming diverse perspectives. Regarding religious makeup, both cities boast a strong Christian presence. However, Charlotte's larger size and greater diversity have led to a more varied array of faith communities. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into your new home.
Cary vs. Charlotte Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Cary, NC, to Charlotte, NC, requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Cary & Charlotte will provide insights to better prepare you for what to expect in terms of navigating each city.
In both Cary and Charlotte, the average commute time is fairly similar, with residents typically spending about 24 to 25 minutes getting to work. However, when it comes to traffic congestion and public transit availability, the two cities start to differ significantly. Charlotte faces higher traffic congestion, reflective of its larger size and busier metropolitan area. On the other hand, it boasts better public transit options, including the Lynx Blue Line, making it somewhat easier to traverse without a car compared to Cary. That said, depending on your exact location and destination within Charlotte, getting by without a car can still present challenges, an aspect less encountered in Cary given its smaller size and less developed public transit infrastructure.
Additional Resources
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Popular Cary to North Carolina Routes
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