Best Durham to Charlotte Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Durham to Charlotte and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 144 mile long distance North Carolina move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 171 Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham to Charlotte Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Dogwood Moving Co. | 9.82 | 9.77 |
2 | Reign Moving Solutions | 9.61 | 9.62 |
3 | Brightleaf Moving Co. | 9.51 | 9.58 |
4 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 |
5 | Gentle Giant Moving Company | 9.43 | 8.96 |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Durham to Charlotte?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 144 miles from Durham, NC to Charlotte, NC will cost on average $1,618 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Charlotte move is roughly $3,862. 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 | $1,092 | 300 ft³ | $3.64 |
1 Bedroom | $1,618 | 450 ft³ | $3.60 |
2 Bedrooms | $2,665 | 750 ft³ | $3.55 |
3 Bedrooms | $3,862 | 1100 ft³ | $3.51 |
4 Bedrooms | $5,549 | 1600 ft³ | $3.47 |
5+ Bedrooms | $6,167 | 1800 ft³ | $3.43 |

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charlotte to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham 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) |

Brightleaf Moving Co.
1800 Williamsburg Rd Apt 13L
Durham, NC, 27707
About Brightleaf Moving Co.
Brightleaf Moving Co. is a locally-owned residential and commercial moving company based in Durham, North Carolina, offering local and long-distance services....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3838853 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | - |

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

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. Charlotte Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be a daunting adventure, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Charlotte, NC , showcasing the closest matches between the two. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Charlotte that feels just like home.
Durham | Charlotte | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Trinity Park | Myers Park | Historic homes, tree-lined streets |
American Tobacco District | South End | Vibrant arts and entertainment |
Old West Durham | NoDa | Eclectic mix of arts, shopping, and dining |
Hope Valley | Ballantyne | Family-friendly, upscale living |
Duke Park | Plaza Midwood | Diverse community, unique vibes |
Warehouse District | Uptown | Urban living, cultural attractions |
Brightleaf | Elizabeth | Historic charm, convenient amenities |
Rockwood | Dilworth | Lush parks, charming architecture |
Cleveland-Holloway | Wilmore | Revitalized historic character, close-knit |
Ninth Street | Montford | Lively nightlife, eclectic eateries |
Delving deeper into the similarities, neighborhoods like Duke Park in Durham and Plaza Midwood in Charlotte offer a vibrant tapestry of culture and diversity, boasting an array of unique shops, local diners, and public parks. For those charmed by historic opulence, Myers Park in Charlotte echoes the grandeur of Trinity Park with its sprawling mansions set alongside picturesque streets. Meanwhile, the energetic atmosphere of Durham's American Tobacco District finds its counterpart in Charlotte's South End, where former industrial spaces breathe new life as bustling spots for arts, dining, and entertainment. Here, venues like South End's Historic Art District mirror the transformative vibe of Durham's iconic locales. If you're drawn to the creative and eclectic, the artistic spirit of NoDa, teeming with galleries like NoDa Gallery Crawl, offers a slice of Durham's Old West Durham in the heart of Charlotte.

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 Durham to Charlotte
Moving from one city to another can be both exciting and daunting. In making the leap from Durham, NC to Charlotte, NC, it's crucial to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks. Our charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision.
- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less nightlife
- Minimal public transport
- Larger city perks
- More diverse careers
- Vibrant nightlife
- Expanded public transit options
- Can feel overcrowded
- More traffic congestion
- Fewer academic institutions
- Less access to parks
- Cozy community feel
- Easy city navigation
- Rich academic scene
- Abundant green spaces
Moving from Durham to Charlotte introduces you to a bustling urban life with vibrant nightlife at venues like Rooftop 210 and diverse career opportunities in growth sectors such as fintech and energy. While you might miss the cozy, tight-knit community feel of Durham, neighborhoods like NoDa and South End in Charlotte offer a unique blend of arts, culture, and dining that feels just as welcoming. The transition may mean adapting to a busier lifestyle and navigating more traffic, but the trade-off includes access to a broader public transit system and exciting urban parks like Freedom Park, which offer vast green spaces and outdoor activities within the city limits.
Durham vs. Charlotte Food Guide
When you're planning a move, it's essential to get a taste - literally - of your new home. Food is a crucial part of local culture and the everyday living experience. We’re here to help by offering a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Charlotte , so you can be better informed about the delicious options awaiting in your new city.
- Pizzeria Toro
- Mateo Bar de Tapas
- Dame's Chicken & Waffles
- Price's Chicken Coop
- Mert's Heart & Soul
- Midwood Smokehouse
Both Durham and Charlotte offer unique flavors and experiences for anyone enthusiastic about food. In Durham, the culinary scene is deeply influenced by its BBQ tradition, with Carolina-style BBQ leading as the most iconic food item. Restaurants like Pizzeria Toro stand out for their innovative takes on classic meals. On the other hand, Charlotte's love for fried chicken is seen through popular spots like Price's Chicken Coop, showcasing the city's rich culinary diversity. Durham's pulled pork and Charlotte's brisket are must-try meat dishes reflecting the local flavor. Meanwhile, both cities boast a growing vegan scene, with eateries offering delicious alternatives like BBQ Jackfruit in Durham and the Impossible Burger in Charlotte, catering to all dietary preferences. Whether you're exploring Durham's abundant food trucks or dining in Charlotte's iconic restaurants, you'll find that each city has its own distinct foodie vibe to discover.
Durham vs. Charlotte Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Durham to Charlotte, the quest for culinary comfort is paramount. Food plays a vital role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison guide between Durham, NC, and Charlotte, NC is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, leveraging your current favorites as a familiar baseline.
Durham | Charlotte | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
NanaSteak | Beef 'N Bottle | High-end steak dining with a classic ambiance |
Pizzeria Toro | Inizio Pizza Napoletana | Authentic Neapolitan pizza with quality ingredients |
Mateo Bar de Tapas | Barcelona Wine Bar | European inspired dishes and a vast wine selection |
Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Haberdish | Southern comfort food with a modern twist |
Bull City Burger and Brewery | The People's Market | Craft burgers with locally sourced ingredients |
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Amélie's French Bakery & Café | European-inspired bakery with a cozy atmosphere |
Elmo's Diner | Not Just Coffee | Hip diner offering breakfast all day and a robust coffee selection |
LocoPops | Popbar | Handcrafted gelato popsicles with customizable toppings |
Saltbox Seafood Joint | Sea Level NC | Fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood with local flavors |
Toast | Earl's Grocery | Urban eatery offering gourmet sandwiches and unique eats |
Exploring these dining establishments will unveil the rich culinary landscapes of both cities. For instance, if you adored the authentic, wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeria Toro, you'll be enchanted by Inizio Pizza Napoletana in Charlotte, whose dedication to the authenticity of Neapolitan pizza mirrors that of your Durham favorite. Similarly, the transition from experiencing the unique seafood dishes at Saltbox Seafood Joint will be seamless as you dive into the fresh, local catch offered by Sea Level NC. Each Charlotte restaurant has been selected not just for its similarity to a Durham counterpart, but for its ability to offer a new culinary adventure, mirroring the diverse flavors and rich dining experiences you've come to cherish.

Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Charlotte Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Durham and Charlotte compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle can make your decision easier. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.
When considering a move from Durham to Charlotte, you'll notice subtle but significant differences in the real estate market. Charlotte generally presents a more urban lifestyle, which is reflected in its slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores. This difference is partly a result of Charlotte's more developed infrastructure and urban planning around its bustling Uptown area. Durham, with its spacious yards, tends to appeal to those seeking a bit more space while still staying close to urban conveniences like Duke University. Both cities boast a mix of Colonial architecture, but Charlotte also exhibits a significant number of modern designs, especially in newer developments around the city. The choice between Durham and Charlotte might ultimately come down to your preference for a laid-back lifestyle versus a more dynamic urban environment.

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.
Durham vs. Charlotte Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Durham, NC to Charlotte, NC, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for adapting to your new environment. This comparison will shed light on key climatic differences between the two cities, aiding in your preparation for the transition.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Durham and Charlotte enjoy a relatively similar climate, notable differences exist, especially in terms of air quality and annual snowfall. Charlotte experiences a marginally higher average UV index, reflecting slightly more sun exposure. Meanwhile, Durham tends to have a higher annual rainfall and more days with snow, albeit light compared to northern climates. These subtle differences could influence your decision on outdoor activities, home maintenance, and even wardrobe choices after your move. Understanding these variances will help you better prepare for your relocation.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Charlotte
When relocating from Durham, NC to Charlotte, NC, it's vital to grasp how the cost of living, and financial landscape will shift. Understanding these changes ensures a seamless transition to your new home, with insights into the economic differences that await you in Durham and Charlotte.
In considering a move from Durham to Charlotte, it's beneficial to note the subtle yet significant distinctions in their economic landscapes. While Durham boasts a higher average household income, Charlotte counters with a lower cost of living and slightly more affluent descriptors. Both cities share the same state income tax rate, ensuring a level of familiarity in fiscal obligations. However, Charlotte's properties have a higher tax rate, potentially affecting your long-term budget. The disparity in poverty and homelessness rates between the two cities further highlights the economic stability Charlotte offers, partially due to its robust finance, technology, and energy sectors. This contrast underscores the importance of understanding these financial nuances when planning your relocation.
Durham vs. Charlotte Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider relocating from Durham to Charlotte, it's useful to understand the differing communities you're transitioning between. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot intended to compare the politics between Durham & Charlotte , alongside the religious makeup of each city's residents, helping you to anticipate the social and cultural environment of your new home.
Moving from Durham to Charlotte, you'll find that both cities exhibit a progressive political lean, yet Charlotte presents a slightly more moderate spectrum, reflective of its larger and more diverse population. Local politics in both cities are predominantly Democratic, but Charlotte's larger scale contributes to a broader diversity in representation and community initiatives. Religion plays a significant role in community life in both cities, with a strong Christian influence. However, Charlotte is home to some highly influential mega-churches, such as Elevation Church, which has a considerable impact on the local culture and community activities.
Durham vs. Charlotte Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving between cities is more than just a change of scenery; it's about adapting to a different pace of life. This guide aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Charlotte.
When considering a move from Durham to Charlotte, it's essential to note the subtle yet significant differences in their commuting landscape. Durham offers a slightly less congested traffic experience than Charlotte, with an average commute time that's a few minutes shorter. This difference could be quite meaningful if you're driving to work every day. Public transportation options are more developed in Charlotte, thanks to systems like the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), providing a somewhat better support for those wishing to avoid the daily drive. However, both cities present challenges to residents who prefer not to own a car, though it's somewhat more feasible in Charlotte due to its broader public transit infrastructure.



Additional Resources
Durham Moving Services
Popular Durham to North Carolina Routes
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