Newark, NJ to Durham, NC Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Newark to Durham typically costs $2,100–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 479 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Newark to Durham
Moving from Newark, NJ to Durham, NC typically costs $2,100–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 479-mile move from Newark to Durham, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $1,490 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $3,534 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,822 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
Studio apartment
Feb 18, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 12, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 07, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 31, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 18, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 26, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 17, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Newark to Durham
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Newark to Durham might be as low as $1,300, while a four-bedroom could reach $7,700.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Newark.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $500 to $1,200 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Durham, NC to Newark, NJ guide.
Best Newark to Durham movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Newark to Durham
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Newark to Durham, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best NJ→NC movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 86 New Jersey movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Newark to Durham
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Durham runs about 9% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than Newark.
Singles spend around $2,803 in Durham versus $2,575 in Newark; families pay $5,945 compared with $5,617.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Newark | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,333 | $1,875 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,300 | $2,573 |
| Average home value | $475,797 | $391,719 |
| Average income (per capita) | $41,335 | $69,117 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,575 | $2,803 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,617 | $5,945 |
| Unemployment rate | 13.0% | 4.1% |
| Sales tax | 6.63% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 4.5% |
- Good news! When moving to Durham from Newark, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 26% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 18% cheaper in Durham, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 67% higher in Durham than in Newark, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Durham, as the cost of living for a single person in Durham is 9% greater than in Newark. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Durham, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 6% more than it is in Newark.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 68% lower than Newark, Durham boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Durham exceed those in Newark by 13%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 58% lower in North Carolina than in New Jersey. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Newark and Durham, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Newark | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.42 | $148.21 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.98 | $51.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.74 | $4.53 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.40 | $3.66 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $79.50 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Newark than in Durham.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Newark than in Durham.
- Eggs cost more in Newark than in Durham.
- Bread is more expensive in Newark than in Durham.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Newark than in Durham.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Newark than in Durham.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Newark than in Durham.
How life is different in Newark vs. Durham
| Newark | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 304,960 | 283,506 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 76 | 30 |
| Bike friendliness score | 51 | 38 |
| Crime index | 75.24 | 54.72 |
| Safety index | 24.76 | 45.28 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Durham's population is about 7% less than Newark.
- Durham's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Newark's score of 9.
- Durham is less walkable than Newark with a score of 30 out of 100 vs Newark's 76 out of 100.
- Durham has a bike-friendliness score of 38 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Newark, which has a score of 51.
- Durham's crime rate is lower than Newark with a score of 54.72 compared to Newark's 75.24. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Newark neighborhoods are safer than 75.24%.
- Durham is considered to be safer than Newark with a safety index of 45.28 vs Newark's 24.76.
- Air quality in Durham is Good, and in Newark it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Newark to Durham move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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 check the status of a North Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in North Carolina, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Durham without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Durham
Ready to relocate to City of The Viper? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Durham.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Golden Belt
- Warehouse District
- City Center
- Research Triangle Park
- 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: Cultural attractions in Durham include museums and art centers like the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, and V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Duke University (ACC)Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Newark to Durham?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Newark to Durham. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Newark.
When is the cheapest time to move from Newark to Durham?
With many people choosing to move from Newark to Durham in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Newark to Durham take?
Covering 479 miles, the move from Newark, NJ to Durham, NC typically takes one to four days. Some Newark movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Durham can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Newark offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in Newark offer AAA member savings. 8 movers provide military discounts. 9 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Newark can handle specialty items for my move to Durham?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Newark, 138 movers can handle pianos. 111 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NJ, there are 77 piano movers and 60 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
