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($1,217) Cost to Move From Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,808 miles from Raleigh to San Jose, expect to pay between $1,680 and $7,813. The journey should take about seven–21 days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Raleigh to San Jose

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Raleigh to San Jose

For a stress-free interstate move from Raleigh to San Jose, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 27 interstate moving companies in Raleigh, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to San Jose.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Raleigh to San Jose

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,808-mile move from Raleigh to San Jose using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,409 – $5,700
  • Moving Container $1,994 – $3,730
  • Rental Truck $1,551 – $2,888
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,707 – $7,813
  • Moving Container $2,362 – $4,988
  • Rental Truck $1,680 – $3,580
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,322 – $10,953
  • Moving Container $3,259 – $7,017
  • Rental Truck $2,186 – $4,307
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Stem, NC Ashland, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
BLVD Moving
Holly Springs, NC Millbrae, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Bunn, NC Los Altos, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 09, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Cary, NC Atherton, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Butner, NC Santa Cruz, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
PODS
Sanford, NC San Lorenzo, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Coats, NC Oakland, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 18, 2025
North American Van Lines
Broadway, NC San Ramon, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 16, 2025
Roadway Moving
Erwin, NC Livermore, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 12, 2025
United Van Lines
Chapel Hill, NC Alameda, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 24, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Jose, CA to Raleigh, NC guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Raleigh to San Jose moves

When planning a move from Raleigh to San Jose, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 28 local movers in Raleigh who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Raleigh to San Jose.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62.0% of all reviews were positive
34.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking. On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave input says Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, professional teams who handle belongings with care and keep things moving efficiently. Out of 315 reviews, an overwhelming 93.7% rate the company highly, often calling out polite staff, excellent communication, careful handling, and fast, organized service as reasons to recommend them. Quotes usually match the final cost, and customers note that movers arrive on time, stay upbeat, and make stressful moves feel easy. On the other hand, negative feedback—about 5.4%—focuses on damaged items, with a few cases of slow or careless service, and occasional complaints about unexpectedly high or confusing charges and poor communication during claims or repairs. With positive ratings far above industry averages, Little Guys Movers garners trust through skilled teams and transparent pricing practices, though a handful of customers encounter problems with damage resolution or billing discrepancies.
Get a Quote (919) 439-2454

Company Info

State license #: 2548

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1931566

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts gets top marks from customers who appreciate reliable, courteous, and hardworking crews. Nearly 94% of feedback is positive across 334 reviews. People routinely mention how efficiently the teams work, how carefully they handle belongings, and how friendly and communicative they are throughout the process. Fair pricing stands out as another frequent highlight compared to competitors. A few clients, however, report issues such as damaged or poorly packed items, especially during busy or larger moves. Some negative input also cites crews lacking experience or rushing, which led to mistakes. In the rare neutral reviews, most concerns relate to minor service lapses or pandemic-related policy misunderstandings rather than major moving problems. Athens’s consistent reputation for speed, respectful service, and professionalism places them ahead of most local movers, but a small number of clients wish for even greater attention to packing quality and oversight during complex jobs.
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3205320

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.4% of all reviews were positive
18.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Excel Moving & Storage stands out with a stellar reputation for professionalism, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Of 283 customer experiences reviewed, 78% highlight attentive staff, timely communication, and a smooth moving process. Customers value the team’s politeness, quick work, and the sense that their possessions are respected. When compared to typical industry input, Excel’s high marks for effective communication and detail-oriented care put them ahead of many competitors. Despite the strong positive feedback, 18% report concerns, mainly regarding damaged or missing items and communication lapses after incidents. While most feedback applauds reliability, negative reviews reveal challenges with problem resolution, lost goods, and slow or absent responses when something goes wrong. Neutral feedback, just over 3%, notes good customer service but occasional delivery delays or minor damages. Excel earns frequent recommendations for large or complex moves, but customers should confirm policies on claims and coverage for valuable items. The company reliably delivers efficient, careful moves, though improvements in post-move communication could further strengthen their standing.
Get a Quote (919) 213-6694

Company Info

State license #: 2311

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—customers praise Next Stop Movers for quick and careful service, friendly and professional staff, and a consistently hassle-free experience. Seven customer feedback entries analyzed, with 100% rated positively. Movers handle furniture attentively, offer efficient solutions, and communicate clearly. People appreciate affordable rates and flexibility, standing out compared to less responsive companies. No negative feedback was reported, and no recurring issues surfaced among the reviews.
Get a Quote (919) 249-8351

Company Info

State license #: 1267633

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3619230

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Raleigh to San Jose?

Movers in North Carolina charge $145 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,217 – $5,289 $1,374 – $3,423 $1,489 – $3,096
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,707 – $7,813 $2,362 – $4,988 $1,680 – $3,580
4+ bedrooms $7,322 – $10,953 $3,259 – $7,017 $2,186 – $4,307
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,808-mile relocation from Raleigh to San Jose, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to San Jose

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Raleigh to San Jose, you can expect to spend between $1,217 and $5,289. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,707 to $7,813 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Raleigh to San Jose typically runs between $7,322 and $10,953.

Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to San Jose

When moving from Raleigh to San Jose, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,374 and $3,423. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,362 to $4,988. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,259 up to $7,017. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Raleigh to San Jose

Renting a moving truck in Raleigh is usually your cheapest option to get to San Jose. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,489 and $3,096. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,680 and $3,580. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,186 and $4,307.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Raleigh to San Jose

The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,454, but larger homes can run up to $10,450.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Raleigh.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,489–$3,733) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to San Jose

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Jose runs about -40% higher for singles and 37% higher for families than Raleigh.

Singles spend around $3,674 in Raleigh versus $6,077 in Raleigh; families pay $8,354 compared with $6,077.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Raleigh San Jose
Average 1 BR rent $1,820 $3,027
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $5,240
Average home value $431,795 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $83,421
Cost of living (single) $6,077 $3,674
Cost of living (family of four) $6,077 $8,354
Unemployment rate 4.3% 6.6%
Sales tax 7.25% 9.38%
State income tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • As you consider relocating to San Jose, note that rent can be roughly 85% more expensive than it is in Raleigh; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 237% higher in San Jose than in Raleigh.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 3143% higher in San Jose compared to Raleigh, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in San Jose, where the cost of living for a single person is 40% less than in Raleigh.
  • If your journey leads to San Jose, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 37% more than it is in Raleigh.
  • The unemployment rate in San Jose is 53% higher compared to Raleigh, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are 29% higher in San Jose than in Raleigh. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 196% higher in California compared to North Carolina. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Raleigh with San Jose:

Living Expense Raleigh San Jose
Basic utilities $190.88 $293.08
Cell phone plan $64.40 $48.44
Dozen eggs $4.71 $4.80
Loaf of bread $4.12 $4.93
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.50 $20.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $100.00
Gym membership $40.18 $123.75
  • Basic utilities cost less in Raleigh than in San Jose, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Raleigh than in San Jose.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Raleigh than in San Jose.
  • Bread costs less in Raleigh than in San Jose.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Raleigh than in San Jose.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Raleigh than in San Jose.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Raleigh than in San Jose.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. San Jose

Raleigh San Jose
Population 467,665 971,233
Transportation score 4 7
Walkability score 31 51
Bike friendliness score 39 62
Crime index 38.87 47.73
Safety index 60.13 52.27
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • San Jose’s population is about 108% greater than Raleigh.
  • San Jose’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Raleigh’s score of 4.
  • San Jose is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Raleigh’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 62 out of 100, San Jose is more bike-friendly than Raleigh, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • San Jose’s crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 47.73 compared to Raleigh’s 38.87. This means that San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • San Jose is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 52.27 vs Raleigh’s 60.13.
  • Air quality in San Jose is Moderate, and in Raleigh it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh to San Jose move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches San Jose smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in San Jose

Now that you’ve chosen Man Jose as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in San Jose to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what San Jose is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, San Jose offers cultural landmarks like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children’s Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, and San Jose Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an San Jose Barracuda (AHL)San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)San Jose Giants (California League)San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Raleigh to San Jose?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Raleigh to San Jose are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Raleigh are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Raleigh to San Jose?

Because spring and fall moves from Raleigh to San Jose are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Raleigh to San Jose take?

A move of 2,808 miles from Raleigh, NC to San Jose, generally takes seven to 21 days. Movers in Raleigh sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in San Jose is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Raleigh?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 1 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in Raleigh offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 20 movers in Raleigh have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 8 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across NC, there are 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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