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($1,206) Cost to Move From Raleigh, NC to Oakland, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,838 miles from Raleigh to Oakland, expect to pay between $1,645 and $7,909. 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 Oakland

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
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Labor Only

Best professional movers from Raleigh to Oakland

For a stress-free interstate move from Raleigh to Oakland, 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 Oakland.

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 Oakland

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,511 – $5,827
  • Moving Container $2,009 – $3,797
  • Rental Truck $1,519 – $2,946
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,712 – $7,909
  • Moving Container $2,429 – $5,555
  • Rental Truck $1,645 – $3,689
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,912 – $11,547
  • Moving Container $3,527 – $6,930
  • Rental Truck $2,252 – $4,573
Recent Moving Price Estimates
Mayzlin Relocation
Sanford, NC American Canyon, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Archer Lodge, NC Acalanes Ridge, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 10, 2025
North American Van Lines
Durham, NC Sunnyvale, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Wake Forest, NC Suisun City, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 19, 2025
United Van Lines
Castalia, NC Foster City, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Knightdale, NC Cupertino, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Creedmoor, NC Reliez Valley, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 13, 2025
PODS
Chapel Hill, NC Pinole, CA
3 Bedrooms
Jul 27, 2025
Safeway Moving
Princeton, NC Los Altos Hills, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Jul 21, 2025
BLVD Moving
Franklinton, NC Ross, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 14, 2025

Top-rated local movers that handle Raleigh to Oakland moves

When planning a move from Raleigh to Oakland, 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 Oakland.

  1. Little Guys Movers : 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Athens Moving Experts: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
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
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.
Show more
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
43.0% of all reviews were positive
54.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day stories with All My Sons Moving & Storage sway more negative than positive, based on 539 pieces of customer feedback—only 43% were favorable. Customers praised efficient service, professional interactions, and movers who worked quickly, handled belongings with care, and remained courteous under pressure. Many also valued the upbeat attitude of staff, and the careful attention to fragile items.
Yet, complaints stand out: over half the input points to repeated issues like damaged items, surprise costs, and poor company communication. People described feeling frustrated with broken furniture, unplanned extra fees, and lack of reliable updates or follow-up when things went wrong. Compared to other well-reviewed movers in the region, All My Sons struggles with service consistency. Positive experiences can be top-notch, but negative incidents with accountability and transparency are far too common for a professional moving company. Those considering this company should be vigilant about extra charges and check all belongings for damage before signing off at the end of a move.
Show more
Get a Quote (919) 626-8854

Company Info

State license #: 2261

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
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.
Show more
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

How much does it cost to move from Raleigh to Oakland?

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 $1,206 – $5,191 $1,384 – $3,734 $1,519 – $3,128
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,712 – $7,909 $2,429 – $5,555 $1,645 – $3,689
4+ bedrooms $6,912 – $11,547 $3,527 – $6,930 $2,252 – $4,573
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,838-mile relocation from Raleigh to Oakland, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Oct 22, 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 Oakland

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Raleigh to Oakland, you can expect to spend between $1,206 and $5,191. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,712 to $7,909 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Raleigh to Oakland typically runs between $6,912 and $11,547.

Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to Oakland

When moving from Raleigh to Oakland, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,384 and $3,734. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,429 to $5,555. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,527 up to $6,930. 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 Oakland

Renting a moving truck in Raleigh is usually your cheapest option to get to Oakland. 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 $1,519 and $3,128. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,645 and $3,689. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,252 and $4,573.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Raleigh to Oakland toggle

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 $2,772, but larger homes can run up to $10,353.
  • 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 ($1,519–$4,089) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to Oakland

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Oakland runs about -48% higher for singles and 41% higher for families than Raleigh.

Singles spend around $3,146 in Raleigh versus $6,077 in Raleigh; families pay $8,584 compared with $6,077.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Raleigh Oakland
Average 1 BR rent $1,820 $1,969
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $4,450
Average home value $431,795 $736,156
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $94,389
Cost of living (single) $6,077 $3,146
Cost of living (family of four) $6,077 $8,584
Unemployment rate 4.3% 4.5%
Sales tax 7.25% 10.25%
State income tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • As you consider relocating to Oakland, note that rent can be roughly 32% 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 70% higher in Oakland than in Raleigh.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 3570% higher in Oakland compared to Raleigh, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Oakland, where the cost of living for a single person is 48% less than in Raleigh.
  • If your journey leads to Oakland, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Oakland is 41% more than it is in Raleigh.
  • Both Oakland and Raleigh present nearly identical unemployment rates, within a 5% range, signifying stability in employment conditions.
  • Sales taxes are 41% higher in Oakland 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 Oakland:

Living Expense Raleigh Oakland
Basic utilities $190.88 $277.25
Cell phone plan $64.40 $53.00
Dozen eggs $4.71 $6.71
Loaf of bread $4.12 $5.09
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.50 $30.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $140.00
Gym membership $40.18 $54.28
  • Basic utilities cost less in Raleigh than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Raleigh than in Oakland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Raleigh than in Oakland.
  • Bread costs less in Raleigh than in Oakland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Raleigh than in Oakland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Raleigh than in Oakland.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Raleigh than in Oakland.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. Oakland

Raleigh Oakland
Population 467,665 440,646
Transportation score 4 8
Walkability score 31 75
Bike friendliness score 39 65
Crime index 38.87 68.62
Safety index 60.13 31.38
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Oakland’s population is about 6% less than Raleigh.
  • Oakland’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Raleigh’s score of 4.
  • Oakland is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Raleigh’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 65 out of 100, Oakland 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.
  • Oakland’s crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 68.62 compared to Raleigh’s 38.87. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • Oakland is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 31.38 vs Raleigh’s 60.13.
  • Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Raleigh it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh to Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland

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

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Grand Lake
  • Piedmont Avenue
  • Rockridge
  • Temescal

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Fairview Park
  • Rockridge
  • Bushrod
  • Upper Rockridge
  • Lakeshore

Things to do in Oakland

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what Oakland 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, Oakland offers cultural landmarks like the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, and Oakland Aviation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center — 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 Oakland Athletics (MLB)Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Raleigh to Oakland?toggle

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Raleigh to Oakland 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 Oakland?toggle

Because spring and fall moves from Raleigh to Oakland 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 Oakland take?toggle

A move of 2,838 miles from Raleigh, NC to Oakland, generally takes seven to 21 days. Movers in Raleigh sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Oakland is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Raleigh?toggle

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?toggle

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 2,173 and 1,401.

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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