$1,312 Movers From California to Raleigh, NC

Quick answer: The cost to move from California to Raleigh, NC averages from $1,646 to $7,910 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.

Hiring a professional California moving company will be on the more expensive side, while renting a truck or a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Raleigh, NC to California guide.

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(855) 650-0657

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(866) 835-2392

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(980) 217-6841

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(844) 950-2963

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Moving from California to Raleigh, NC resources

In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move from California to Raleigh, NC.
But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:

  • Best California to Raleigh, NC movers: If you plan on hiring a moving company be sure to check out our list of the top movers from California to Raleigh, NC.
  • How much will your move cost?: Want to narrow down how much your move will cost? Use our moving cost calculator to get more specific price ranges and recommendations on the best companies to use for your move.
  • Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies.
  • California to Raleigh, NC car shippers: Moving your car? Use an experienced company that prioritizes professionalism and cares for your vehicle.

Moving 2,664 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.

The best California to Raleigh, NC moving companies

Hiring an interstate moving company from California to Raleigh is a big deal.

There are more than 8,000 moving companies in the U.S. But don’t worry, you won’t have to filter through all of them. We’ve done the research for you and narrowed the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services. Here are the best long-distance moving companies serving California to Raleigh.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 20 yrs experience
  • Flat rate pricing
  • Family owned
Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
Get A Quote
(980) 217-6841

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 74 years in biz
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
Get A Quote
(844) 950-2963

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • White glove
  • Expensive items
  • Guaranteed delivery
Get A Quote
(703) 972-1772

% of users select this mover

If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.

What is the average cost to move from California to Raleigh, NC?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Raleigh for different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Size of the Move Moving Company Moving Container Rental Truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,312 - $5,769 $1,364 - $3,504 $1,535 - $3,124
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,097 - $7,910 $2,472 - $5,207 $1,646 - $3,577
4+ bedrooms $7,481 - $11,877 $3,651 - $7,164 $2,038 - $4,172
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*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,664 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

The cost to move from California to Raleigh, NC will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have — as well as your home size and layout — will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in California, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to letting the pros handle your move.

How much does it cost to hire professional movers from California to Raleigh>?

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Raleigh will cost between $1,312 to $5,769. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Raleigh to NC will range from $4,097 to $7,910, and a large move from California to Raleigh will cost from $7,481 to $11,877.

How much are moving containers like PODS from California to Raleigh?

Moving containers from California to Raleigh will cost you $1,364 to $3,504 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,472 to $5,207. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,651 to $7,164.

Here are the cheapest moving containers for your move to Raleigh.

How much is a moving truck from California to Raleigh?

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option for moving from California to Raleigh, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,535 to $3,124. A larger move will cost $1,646 to $3,577, and a four-bedroom or more move from California to Raleigh costs from $2,038 to $4,172. These estimates include the estimated fuel cost.

Here are the cheapest rental truck companies for your move from California.

Is moving from California to Raleigh, NC a good idea?

Cost of living: California vs Raleigh, NC

California Raleigh
Average rent cost $1,586 $1,695
Average home value $746,055 $429,266
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $63,654
Unemployment rate 5% 4%
State income tax 13% 10%
  • Rent is about 7% more expensive in Raleigh than in California.
  • Home prices are about 42% lower in Raleigh than in California.
  • The average income is about 31% lower in Raleigh than in California.
  • Raleigh has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 10%.
  • Income taxes are 26% lower in Raleigh than in California.

How is life different in Raleigh from California?

Raleigh California
Population 467,665 39,029,342
Political leaning Democrat 62-36 Democratic 63-34
Summer high 90ºF 87ºF
Winter low 30ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 46" 22"
Annual snow 4" 7"
Crime index 27.14 27.88
  • The population of Raleigh is approximately 99% lower than the population of California.
  • In the last presidential election, Raleigh voted Democrat and California voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in Raleigh is 90ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Raleigh reaches the temperature of 30ºF and California gets down to 59ºF.
  • You can expect about 46 inches of annual rainfall in Raleigh vs 22 inches of rainfall in California.
  • In Raleigh, it snows about 4 inches annually vs 7 inches of snow in California.
  • Raleigh has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 27.88 vs 27.14.

Considerations for moving to Raleigh, NC

  • Weather: The climate in Raleigh is unlikely to affect your move. However, some days in the winter, the roads may become icy which causes traffic issues. .
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
  • 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). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forward to North Carolina. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to 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 is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Looking for local California movers?

Company Quote Rating Contact
Meathead Movers Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.96 overall rating
2905 Unicorn Rd, Bakersfield, CA, 93308
(661) 335-6191
All Star Movers & Storage Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.96 overall rating
101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA, 94568
(925) 905-9889

Visit our best movers in California page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.

Comparing the pros of California vs. Raleigh, NC:

There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in California vs Raleigh side-by-side.

Pros of living in California Pros of living in Raleigh, NC
Ample economic opportunity Exceptional beauty
Pleasant weather Ample economic opportunity
Abundant recreational options Quality education
High quality of life Bountiful arts and recreational activities
Fresh and healthy foods Quality healthcare

Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Raleigh, NC:

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving California for Raleigh.

Cons of living in California Cons of living in Raleigh, NC
High cost of living High cost of living
Heavy tax burdens Quiet nightlife
Natural disasters Temperamental weather
Terrible traffic Allergy-inducing pollen
Strange laws Urban sprawl

Need a local Raleigh mover?

Company Quote Rating Contact
American Moving & Hauling, Inc. Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
535 Clemmonsville Rd D, Winston-Salem, NC, 27107
(336) 765-3499

Visit our best movers in Raleigh page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.

What to do in Raleigh?

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Raleigh.

Museums in Raleigh

  • African American Cultural Complex
  • Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh
  • Gregg Museum of Art & Design at North Carolina State University
  • Haywood Hall House & Gardens
  • Marbles Kids Museum
  • North Carolina Museum of Art
  • North Carolina Museum of History
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
  • North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame
  • City of Raleigh Museum
  • J. C. Raulston Arboretum
  • Joel Lane House
  • Mordecai Plantation
  • Pope House Museum

Parks in Raleigh

  • Pullen Park
  • William B. Umstead State Park
  • Yates Mill County Park
  • JC Raulston Arboretum
  • Neuse River Trail
  • Lake Johnson Park
  • Mordecai Historic Park
  • Anderson Point Park

Sports Teams in Raleigh

  • Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
  • North Carolina FC (USL)
  • North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
  • Carolina Mudcats (MiLB)

Universities in Raleigh

  • North Carolina State University
  • Wake Technical Community College
  • Campbell University Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law
  • Montreat College's School of Professional and Adult Studies
  • William Peace University
  • Shaw University
  • Skema Business School
  • St. Augustine's University

FAQs

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Raleigh?

Because of the 2664 move, it’s best to book your move from California to Raleigh as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is cheapest to move to Raleigh, NC?

With the summer highs of 90ºF and the winter lows of 30ºF, most people move to Raleigh from California during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Raleigh during summer or winter.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies from Raleigh?

Check out our full breakdown of the best long-distance movers in Raleigh.

Related articles to your move

Learn more about Raleigh, NC