How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to NM move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 115 North Carolina moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
-
Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
-
Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from North Carolina to New Mexico?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from North Carolina to New Mexico.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,177 – $4,526 |
$958 – $2,385 |
$997 – $1,914 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,863 – $6,285 |
$1,853 – $3,630 |
$1,037 – $2,190 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,224 – $9,477 |
$2,380 – $4,815 |
$1,358 – $2,678 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,659-mile move from NC to
NM using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from North Carolina to New Mexico
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from North Carolina to New Mexico,
you can expect prices to land between $1,177
and $4,526.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,863 to
$6,285 for the trip from NC
to NM. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,224 and
$9,477.
Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to New Mexico
Moving containers from North Carolina to New Mexico
will cost you $958 to
$2,385 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,853
to $3,630. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,380 to
$4,815.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of North Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to New Mexico
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$997
and $1,914
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,037
to $2,190.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,358
to $2,678.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NC to NM
Several factors influence the cost of moving from North Carolina to New Mexico. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
-
Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in North Carolina generally comes with a higher price tag.
-
DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from NC to NM
Making the move from North Carolina to New Mexico means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: North Carolina vs. New Mexico
A clear look at the cost differences between North Carolina and New Mexico helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
North Carolina |
New Mexico |
| Average rent |
$1,093 |
$966 |
| Average home cost |
$328,715 |
$303,910 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$66,186 |
$58,722 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.7% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.98% |
7.61% |
| State income tax |
4.5% |
5.9% |
-
You’ll pay about 12% less in rent in New Mexico compared to North Carolina, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
-
Home prices in New Mexico are around 8% lower than in North Carolina. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
-
Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 11% lower New Mexico than in North Carolina.
-
Since living costs in New Mexico and North Carolina are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
-
With an unemployment rate around 22% lower than North Carolina, New Mexico offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
-
Sales taxes are 9% higher in New Mexico than in North Carolina, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
-
State income taxes in New Mexico are 31% higher than in North Carolina, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in New Mexico vs. North Carolina
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in New Mexico and North Carolina compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
New Mexico |
North Carolina |
| Population |
2,113,344 |
10,835,491 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.9-45.9 |
Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
29ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
24″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
38.81 |
24.69 |
-
The population of New Mexico is about 80% smaller than that of North Carolina.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
-
In the latest presidential election, New Mexico voted Democratic, while North Carolina chose Republican.
-
Summer highs average 88°F in New Mexico, compared to 88°F in North Carolina.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, New Mexico reaches lows near 20°F, colder than 29°F in North Carolina.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
-
You can expect only about 15 inches of annual rainfall in New Mexico versus 48 inches of rainfall in North Carolina.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
Each year, New Mexico gets about 24 inches of snow, while North Carolina sees only 4 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
-
New Mexico has a higher crime rate than North Carolina, with crime indexes at 38.81 and 24.69, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of North Carolina vs. New Mexico
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in New Mexico compared to North Carolina:
| Pros of living in North Carolina |
Pros of living in New Mexico |
| Great communities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Low cost of living |
Rich culture |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Delicious food and wine |
| High quality of life |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundant outdoor activities |
Comparing the cons of living in North Carolina vs. New Mexico
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from North Carolina to New Mexico:
| Cons of living in North Carolina |
Cons of living in New Mexico |
| Hurricanes |
Bad roads |
| Bland weather |
Lackluster economy |
| High crime rate |
Scarce job opportunity |
| High tax burden |
Slow life |
| Poor education |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your North Carolina to New Mexico move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
State licensing:
Movers that operate within the Land of Enchantment are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a New Mexico moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in New Mexico, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to New Mexico right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in New Mexico
You’ll have plenty to explore in New Mexico! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New Mexico
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Roswell Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas
- International UFO Museum and Research Center
Parks in New Mexico
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- Spring River Park and Zoo
- Old Fort Marcy Park
- Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area
- City of Rocks State Park
Sports teams in New Mexico
- Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple-A West)
- New Mexico Ice Wolves (NAHL)
- New Mexico United (USL Championship)
Universities in New Mexico
- University of New Mexico
- New Mexico State University
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Western New Mexico University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from North Carolina to New Mexico?
Do movers transport your car from North Carolina to New Mexico?
What are the benefits of moving from North Carolina to New Mexico?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave North Carolina for New Mexico, drawn by advantages like beautiful landscapes and rich culture that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in North Carolina or New Mexico?
Living in New Mexico usually costs less than in North Carolina.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in New Mexico,
with average rent about 12% less and home prices 8% lower than in North Carolina.
However, taxes are
lower in North Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by New Mexico residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Mexico?
To live comfortably as a single adult in New Mexico, you should aim to make around $67,478.
On average, expect to spend about $2,664 per month, or $5,879 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Albuquerque and Las Cruces generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in North Carolina?
Many movers in North Carolina publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
5 offer military-specific savings;
2 extend deals for seniors;
1 have educator discounts;
2 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
North Carolina moving services
Popular North Carolina routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
For a move from North Carolina to New Mexico, budget between $2,863–$6,285 for full-service movers, around
$2,741 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,613
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
