Quick answer: The cost to move from San Jose to Durham ranges from $1,982 to $9,705 and the journey will take approximately seven to 21 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 2,785-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Durham to San Jose guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from San Jose to Durham

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from San Jose to Durham isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

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%): 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.

The best local movers servicing San Jose to Durham moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in San Jose that offers long-distance services to Durham can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in San Jose who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from San Jose to Durham.

  1. All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Lunardi Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Ninja Movers, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Trek Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/allreasonsmoving/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word of mouth meets reliability at All Reasons Moving & Storage. Out of 306 customer inputs, 90.5% were favorable, underscoring exceptional service. Clients repeatedly cite the team's professionalism, careful handling, quick and efficient moves, positive staff attitudes, and reliable communication as stand-out features.
Customers appreciate on-time arrivals, accuracy in cost estimates, and meticulous treatment of their property—qualities that set the company above most competitors. Negative feedback accounts for 8.2% of responses, mainly describing damaged items, surprise fees, or rare poor staff interactions. Most concerns focus on breakage during moves or storage and disputes about extra charges. Neutral comments, at 1.3%, describe higher-than-expected costs or minor miscommunication but rarely mention major setbacks. All Reasons earns strong trust for its emphasis on permanent, well-trained crews rather than temporary day labor—a rare trait. Compared to typical moving companies, customer input shows they provide a notably stress-free moving experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (408) 240-0244

Company Info

State license #: 0189789

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 70719

Alternate Names: All Reasons Moving and Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/vectormoving/, https://twitter.com/MovingVector
85% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves, careful teams, and upbeat attitudes define the feedback for Vector Moving and Storage, based on 71 customer submissions. A strong 84.5% of clients praised their efficient work, respectfulness, and how gently possessions were handled. Customers frequently mentioned quick process times, professional approach, and feeling highly confident in their choice, noting the staff’s courtesy and attention to property.
Despite many stress-free experiences, 15.5% of feedback flagged recurring problems: broken items during transit, delays, larger-than-promised bills, and unresolved complaints were cited as major setbacks. While most moving companies struggle to match Vector’s ratio of glowing to problematic feedback, issues like damage, surprise add-ons, or timing should be weighed against their reputation for speed and professionalism.
Show more
Get a Quote (844) 468-6683

Company Info

State license #: 0191802

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3152229


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LunardiMovingServices/, https://twitter.com/lunardimovers
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy: Out of 544 customer feedback entries, 94.7% praised Lunardi Moving for efficiency, care with belongings, professionalism, and helpful staff. Customers repeatedly highlighted attentive and polite crews, swift moving, and careful handling of items. Some reviewers described consistent experiences across multiple moves, including delicate items and complex jobs.
A small number of clients, about 3.5%, cited higher-than-expected bills, unexpected fees, or occasional item damage. Neutral feedback often referenced additional charges or less-than-perfect estimates, despite generally satisfactory service. Compared to other moving companies, Lunardi stands out with strong service consistency and attentive staff, though clarity in quoting could be improved to match industry leaders on price transparency.
Show more
Get a Quote (408) 849-9630

Company Info

State license #: 0190625

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2762936


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/ninjamoversbayarea/, https://twitter.com/ninjamovers
80% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Ninja Movers’ speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings—80% of 500 reviews were positive. Crews consistently arrive on time, work efficiently, carefully wrap furniture, and provide helpful, polite service, making moving easier and less stressful than with other companies. Many mention clear communication from booking to completion, and several note rates are competitive.
Some feedback highlights standout customer support when issues happen. On the downside, complaints focus on items damaged during handling, surprise charges compared to initial quotes, and delivery delays. Compared to similar moving companies, Ninja Movers earns top marks for efficient operations and courteous staff, but may fall short for those expecting flawless results, zero damages, or strictly guaranteed pricing. Most customer input strongly recommends them for local and long-distance moves, but suggests carefully reviewing estimates and policies for extra peace of mind.
Show more
Get a Quote (408) 638-6963

Company Info

State license #: 0191848

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2967361

Alternate Names: Ninja Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

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

San Jose movers charge $119 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 $1,603 - $6,760 $1,675 - $4,174 $2,023 - $3,848
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,933 - $9,705 $3,284 - $6,532 $1,982 - $4,669
4+ bedrooms $9,560 - $15,193 $4,228 - $8,732 $2,506 - $5,623
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,785 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.

Cost to hire movers from California to North Carolina

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to North Carolina, you can expect to spend between $1,603 and $6,760. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,933 to $9,705 on the same route (CA to NC). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to North Carolina typically runs between $9,560 and $15,193.

Cost of moving containers from California to North Carolina

When you're heading from California to North Carolina, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,675 and $4,174. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $3,284 and $6,532. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,228 to $8,732. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to North Carolina

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 with a rental truck, expect to spend between $2,023 and $3,848. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,982 and $4,669. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $2,506 up to $5,623 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from San Jose to Durhamtoggle

The cost of San Jose movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from San Jose to Durham might cost just $1,603 for a one-bedroom, but up to $14,050 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in San Jose, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $2,023 and $5,078, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from San Jose to Durham

Moving from San Jose to Durham means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in San Jose than in Durham, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how San Jose compares to Durham so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Jose Durham
Average rent cost $3,095 $1,699
Average home value $1,453,657 $391,719
Average income (per capita) $83,421 $396,291
Cost of living (single person) $3,674 $2,803
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,354 $5,945
Unemployment rate 6.6% 4.1%
Sales tax 9.38% 7.5%
State income tax 13.3% 4.5%
  • Rent prices in Durham are 45% lower than in San Jose, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Durham.
    Home prices in Durham are 73.1% lower than in San Jose.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Durham, where incomes are, on average, 375.0% higher than in San Jose. Major employers in Durham include Duke University & Duke Univ. Health System, IBM, and Durham Public Schools.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Durham. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 23.7% lower than in San Jose.
  • A move to Durham can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 28.8% less than what it costs in San Jose.
  • The unemployment rate in Durham is 37.88% lower than in San Jose.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Durham, since the city's sales taxes in Durham are 20.04% lower than in San Jose.
  • One perk of moving to Durham is paying less in state income taxes, which are 66.17% lower than in San Jose.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,288.79 in Durham to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in San Jose.

How life is different in San Jose vs. Durham

Durham San Jose
Population 283,506 971,233
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 7
Walkability score 30 51
Bike friendliness score 38 62
Crime Index 54.72 47.73
Safety Index 45.28 52.27
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Durham's population is about 71% less than San Jose.
  • Durham's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus San Jose's higher score of 7.
  • Durham is less walkable than San Jose with a score of 30 out of 100 vs San Jose's 51 out of 100.
  • Durham has a bike-friendliness score 38 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as San Jose, which has a score of 62 out of 100.
  • Durham's crime rate is higher than San Jose with a score of 54.72 compared to San Jose's 47.73. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73%.
  • Durham is considered to be less safe than San Jose with a score of 45.28 vs San Jose's 52.27.
  • Air quality in Durham is good, and in San Jose it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Jose vs. Durham move

  • Weather: The climate in Durham is unlikely to affect your move. However, some days in the winter, the roads may become icy which causes traffic issues.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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). Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a North Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: North Carolina doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Durham. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Durham

With your sights set on City of The Viper, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Durham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Golden Belt
  • City Center
  • Central Park
  • Chapel Hill
  • Northgate Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Treyburn
  • American Village/Arrowhead
  • Willowhaven
  • Fieldstone by the Eno
  • Hope Valley Farms

Things to do in Durham

Now that you've made the move to North Carolina it's the perfect time to explore Durham From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Durham, such as the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection, and Golden Belt.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Duke University (ACC) and Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Jose to Durham You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Jose.

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

Because spring and fall moves from San Jose to Durham 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 San Jose to Durham take?

The 2,785-mile journey from San Jose, CA to Durham, NC, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in San Jose offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Durham.

Helpful moving resources