Local moving companies in California
When you are heading from California to Durham, NC, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Durham, NC.
- Best California Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Double Move: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage , An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0190673
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3670248
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 2
DOT #: 4027902
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Durham, NC
See the table below for average move cost ranges from California to Durham, NC, organized by service type and the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,264 – $5,123 | $1,232 – $3,357 | $1,397 – $2,788 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,450 – $7,023 | $2,302 – $4,989 | $1,438 – $3,255 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,694 – $11,561 | $3,267 – $6,335 | $1,893 – $3,835 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,645-mile move from California to Durham, NC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Durham, NC
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Durham, NC, will cost between $1,264 and $5,123. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $3,450 to $7,023, and a large move will cost from $6,694 to $11,561.
Cost of moving containers from California to Durham, NC
If you’re moving from California to Durham, NC, expect to pay between $1,232 and $3,357 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,302 up to $4,989. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,267 and $6,335. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Durham, NC
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Durham, NC, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,397 and $2,788. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,438 and $3,255. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,893 up to $3,835 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from California to Durham, NC
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best California Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Double Move | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
From our review of 3,179 movers, see how California movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Durham, NC
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Durham, NC to what you’re used to in California. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: California vs. Durham, NC
| California | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,699 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $391,719 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $69,117 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 99 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.1% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 4.5% |
Durham sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Durham is approximately 8% lower than in California, freeing up money for other expenses.
- Home prices are about 49% lower in Durham than in California, which could make buying a home more affordable.
- Salaries in Durham are usually about 25% lower than in California. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you relocate.
- Durham has an unemployment rate 24% below California, which could mean a more favorable job market.
- Income taxes are 66% lower in North Carolina than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Durham from California
| Durham | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 283,506 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 89ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 30ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 4″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 54.72 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Durham voted Republican, while California voted Democratic.
- Summers in Durham usually hit highs of 89ºF, right in line with the average 87ºF you’re used to in California. So, you can expect a smooth transition in terms of temperature. Still, don’t forget to factor in the local humidity, typical weather patterns, and changes in energy costs to get a full sense of what summer will really feel like in your new place.
- Winter in Durham packs a colder punch, often dipping to lows of 30ºF, which is quite a bit chillier than the 59ºF winters you’re used to in California. Be prepared for those frosty months with potentially higher heating costs and a few changes to your daily routine. On the bright side, Durham offers crisp air, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy.
- Expect around 46 inches of rain each year in Durham, which is quite a bit more than the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. With the extra rainfall comes lusher landscapes and more rainy days, so be sure to add rain gear to your wardrobe and get ready to embrace life in a wetter, greener setting.
- In Durham, it snows about 4 inches annually while California gets 7 inches. With snowfall being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
- Crime rates in Durham are higher than in California, with a crime index of 54.72 compared to 28.43. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in Durham
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Durham truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Durham
- Museum of Life + Science
- Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University
- Museum of Durham History
- V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection
- Golden Belt
Parks in Durham
- West Point on the Eno
- RollingView Falls Lake State Park
- Durham Central Park
- Historic Durham Athletic Park
- Forest Hills Park
Sports teams in Durham
- Duke University (ACC)
- Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball)
Universities in Durham
- Duke University
- North Carolina Central University
- Durham Technical Community College
Other considerations when moving to Durham, NC
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’s rules before moving day.
- State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Verify your North Carolina moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to North Carolina right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Durham take?
How long it takes to move from California to Durham, NC depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
Planning a move from northern California to Durham? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Durham from California can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Durham?
With a 2,645-mile move from California to Durham, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Durham, NC?
Summer highs in Durham can hit 89°F, while winter lows drop to 30°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Durham choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.
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