How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to NC move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 106 Massachusetts moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to North Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Massachusetts to North Carolina.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,105 – $3,514 |
$747 – $1,705 |
$520 – $920 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,030 – $5,128 |
$1,242 – $2,433 |
$507 – $1,070 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,676 – $7,770 |
$1,749 – $3,128 |
$662 – $1,403 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 712-mile move from MA to
NC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Massachusetts to North Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to North Carolina typically costs between
$1,105 and
$3,514.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,030
and $5,128
when moving from MA to NC.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Massachusetts to North Carolina,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,676
up to $7,770.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to North Carolina
If you’re relocating from Massachusetts to North Carolina,
you’ll typically spend between $747
and $1,705 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,242 up to
$2,433.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,749 and
$3,128. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to North Carolina
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$520 and
$920.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$507 to
$1,070.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $662 and
$1,403.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to NC
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Massachusetts to North Carolina. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Massachusetts, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from MA to NC
Transitioning from Massachusetts to North Carolina gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. North Carolina
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Massachusetts and North Carolina are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Massachusetts |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,588 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$623,131 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$96,505 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.9% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.25% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
9.0% |
4.5% |
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Rent is about 31% less expensive in North Carolina than in Massachusetts, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in North Carolina are about 47% lower than in Massachusetts, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in North Carolina are roughly 31% lower than in Massachusetts.
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With a similar cost of living in both Massachusetts and North Carolina, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in Massachusetts and North Carolina, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in North Carolina runs 12% higher than in Massachusetts, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 50% lower in North Carolina compared to Massachusetts. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in North Carolina vs. Massachusetts
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how North Carolina and Massachusetts compare.
|
North Carolina |
Massachusetts |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
7,001,399 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
49″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
13.92 |
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If you’re moving from Massachusetts to North Carolina, you’ll find North Carolina has about 55% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, North Carolina leaned Republican, while Massachusetts supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in North Carolina is 88°F compared to 82°F in Massachusetts.
A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
-
In winter, North Carolina drops only to 29°F, milder than 16°F in Massachusetts.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
In North Carolina, you’ll experience about 48 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
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In North Carolina, it only snows about 4 inches annually while Massachusetts gets 47 inches.
Moving to North Carolina, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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North Carolina has a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 24.69 compared to 13.92.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. North Carolina
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in North Carolina to Massachusetts:
| Pros of living in Massachusetts |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Natural beauty |
Great communities |
| Excellent education system |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious seafood |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Home to boston |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. North Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Massachusetts to North Carolina:
| Cons of living in Massachusetts |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Bad traffic |
Hurricanes |
| Poor driving conditions |
Bland weather |
| Harsh winter weather |
High crime rate |
| High cost of living |
High tax burden |
| Peculiar liquor laws |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to North Carolina move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
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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 your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a North Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in North Carolina, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to North Carolina. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in North Carolina
Get excited to explore North Carolina. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Fontana Lake
Sports teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)
Universities in North Carolina
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Massachusetts to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to North Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to North Carolina?
Many people are making the move from Massachusetts to North Carolina to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in North Carolina has to offer, like great communities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or North Carolina?
Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in Massachusetts.
Housing
is more affordable in North Carolina,
with average rent about 31% less and home prices 47% lower than in Massachusetts.
Taxes are also
lower in North Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Carolina?
Planning to move to North Carolina? A single adult should aim for an income of around $43,333 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,876 for an individual, or $6,644 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Massachusetts?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Massachusetts:
1 provide military discounts;
3 have senior-discount programs;
6 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
Popular Massachusetts routes
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When relocating from Massachusetts to North Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,030 to
$5,128, roughly
$1,837 for a container move, and close to
$788
for a rental truck.
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