Best New York City to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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.

Best New York City to Durham Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | 9.78 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Flex Moving and Storage | 9.70 | 9.74 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
4 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 | Active |
5 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,258 | 300 ft³ | $4.19 |
1 Bedroom | $1,868 | 450 ft³ | $4.15 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,082 | 750 ft³ | $4.11 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,473 | 1100 ft³ | $4.07 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,439 | 1600 ft³ | $4.02 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,167 | 1800 ft³ | $3.98 |


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
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2096754 / 882954 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |

Metropolis Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4277979 / 1662478 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |

Flex Moving and Storage
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3610638 / 1229716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2022) |

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 | - |

Athens Moving Experts

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |

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.
New York City vs. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from New York City to Durham can feel like a leap into the unknown, but by comparing local neighborhoods, you can find familiar comforts in a new setting. Our guide highlights the neighborhoods between New York City, NY & Durham, NC to help ease your transition.
New York City | Durham | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Upper East Side | Trinity Park | Historic homes, affluent area |
Williamsburg | Central Park | Hip, artistic vibe |
Greenwich Village | Ninth Street | Bohemian charm, trendy shops |
SoHo | Brightleaf | Boutique shopping, vibrant nightlife |
Harlem | Historic Stokesdale | Rich culture, community focus |
Tribeca | Old West Durham | Upscale, family-friendly |
Chelsea | American Village | Art scene, modern condos |
Park Slope | Forest Hills | Family-friendly, parks |
Hell's Kitchen | Durham Central Park | Culinary diversity |
Astoria | Lakewood | Cultural diversity, eclectic dining |
If you're enchanted by the historic homes and affluence of the Upper East Side, Durham's Trinity Park offers a similar atmosphere with its tree-lined streets and proximity to Duke University. For those who revel in the bohemian culture of Greenwich Village, Ninth Street's eclectic mix of shops and cafes exudes a comparable charm, providing a taste of home. Dive into the vibrant nightlife and boutique shopping of SoHo with a visit to Brightleaf, where you'll find a similar buzz amidst alluring historic buildings. Moreover, if Hell's Kitchen's diverse culinary offerings delight your taste buds, you'll feel right at home exploring the vibrant food scene around Durham Central Park.

Things to Do in Durham
- Explore Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Watch a movie at Carolina Theatre
- Try food at Durham Farmers' Market
- Attend a DPAC performance
- Hike Eno River State Park trails
- Visit Museum of Life and Science
- Experience Dashi for ramen and sake
Ready to start your move?
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.
- High living costs
- Crowded spaces
- Noisy environment
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Limited greenery
- Lower living costs
- More open spaces
- Quieter surroundings
- Relaxed pace of life
- Abundant greenery
- Smaller cultural scene
- Lesser dining variety
- Car-dependent
- Fewer landmarks
- Smaller communities
- 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.
- Katz's Delicatessen
- Le Bernardin
- Joe's Pizza
- The Pit
- Mateo Bar de Tapas
- Viceroy
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 City | Durham | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Le Bernardin | Mateo Tapas | Spanish-style dining with an emphasis on seafood, echoing Le Bernardin's quality and presentation. |
Katz's Delicatessen | Parker and Otis | Offers a quality delicatessen experience, maintaining the iconic sandwich culture similar to Katz's. |
Shake Shack | OnlyBurger | A beloved local burger joint with a focus on quality ingredients and taste, akin to Shake Shack's philosophy. |
Per Se | The Restaurant at The Durham | Offers a fine dining experience with meticulous attention to detail, much like Per Se. |
Joe's Pizza | Pizzeria Toro | Known for their excellent wood-fired pizzas, capturing the essence of a classic New York slice. |
Carbone | Gocciolina | A cozy Italian spot with a menu that rivals the authentic and bold flavors of Carbone. |
Xi'an Famous Foods | Happy + Hale | Offers a healthy and flavorful menu with items that remind one of Xi'an's distinctive spices and tastes. |
Momofuku Noodle Bar | Dashi | A noodle bar in Durham that presents ramen with depth of flavor and innovation, echoing Momofuku's reputation. |
Dominique Ansel Bakery | Loaf | A bakery that provides inventive and high-quality pastries, much like the celebrated Dominique Ansel Bakery. |
The Halal Guys | MediTerra Grill | While 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.

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.
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.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Durham, NC
1. Trinity Park : You'll love the abundance of leafy streets and spacious sidewalks, making it perfect for scenic dog walks.
2. Old West Durham : This neighborhood offers numerous parks and outdoor spaces where you and your pets can enjoy playtime.
3. Southpoint : With its proximity to the American Tobacco Trail, you have easy access to miles of pet-friendly trails for walking and jogging.
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.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
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.
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.
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.



Additional Resources
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