Durham, NC to Long Beach, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Durham to Long Beach typically costs $4,100–$8,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,542 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Durham to Long Beach
Moving from Durham, NC to Long Beach, CA typically costs $4,100–$8,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,542-mile move from Durham to Long Beach, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $3,306 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $11,869 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $2,526 for a 3 bedroom using a rental truck.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 15, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 31, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 23, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 18, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 17, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 14, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 09, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 09, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Durham to Long Beach
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Durham to Long Beach might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,800.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Durham.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,700 to $4,500 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Long Beach, CA to Durham, NC guide.
Best Durham to Long Beach movers by type
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Best professional movers from Durham to Long Beach
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Durham to Long Beach, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best NC→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 115 North Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Durham to Long Beach
Overall, Durham and Long Beach land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $2,681 in Long Beach and $2,803 in Durham, while families in Long Beach see $6,051 versus $5,945 in Durham.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Durham | Long Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,875 | $2,450 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,573 | $3,780 |
| Average home value | $391,719 | $835,800 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,117 | $78,995 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,803 | $2,681 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,945 | $6,051 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 22% higher in Long Beach than in Durham, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 113% higher in Long Beach than in Durham.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 14% higher in Long Beach than in Durham, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Long Beach and Durham, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Long Beach and Durham, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won't notice a significant change in expenses.
- The unemployment rate in Long Beach exceeds that of Durham by about 27%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Long Beach exceed those in Durham by 37%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 196% higher in California than in North Carolina. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Durham and Long Beach, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Durham | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.21 | $147.18 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.67 | $51.55 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.53 | $3.58 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.66 | $3.79 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $70.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $41.20 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Durham than in Long Beach.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Durham than in Long Beach.
- Eggs cost more in Durham than in Long Beach.
- Bread costs less in Durham than in Long Beach.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Durham than in Long Beach.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Durham than in Long Beach.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Durham than in Long Beach.
How life is different in Durham vs. Long Beach
| Durham | Long Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 283,506 | 451,307 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 30 | 73 |
| Bike friendliness score | 38 | 70 |
| Crime index | 54.72 | 58.58 |
| Safety index | 45.28 | 41.42 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Long Beach's population is about 59% greater than Durham.
- Long Beach's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Durham's score of 4.
- Long Beach is more walkable than Durham with a score of 73 out of 100 vs Durham's 30 out of 100.
- With a score of 70 out of 100, Long Beach is more bike-friendly than Durham, which has a score of 38 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Long Beach's crime rate is higher than Durham with a score of 58.58 compared to Durham's 54.72. This means that Long Beach neighborhoods are safer than 58.58% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72%.
- Long Beach is considered to be less safe than Durham with a score of 41.42 vs Durham's 45.28.
- Air quality in Long Beach is Good, and in Durham it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Durham to Long Beach move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Long Beach without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Long Beach
Ready to relocate to Aquatic Capital of America? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Long Beach.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Belmont Shore
- Recreation Park
- Carroll Park
- Alamitos Beach
- Bluff Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bixby Village
- Los Altos
- Wrigley Heights
- Park Estates
- Alamitos Heights
Things to do in Long Beach
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Long Beach. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Long Beach include museums and art centers like the The Queen Mary, Museum of Latin American Art, Rancho Los Cerritos, and Long Beach Museum of Art.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Bluff Park, Rainbow Lagoon Park, Bixby Park, and El Dorado Park West, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Durham to Long Beach?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Durham to Long Beach. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Durham.
When is the cheapest time to move from Durham to Long Beach?
With many people choosing to move from Durham to Long Beach in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Durham to Long Beach take?
Covering 2,542 miles, the move from Durham, NC to Long Beach, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Durham movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Long Beach can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Durham can handle specialty items for my move to Long Beach?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Durham, 18 movers can handle pianos. 7 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NC, there are 77 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
