Quick answer: The cost to move from New York City to Chapel Hill ranges from $535 to $5,768 and the journey will take approximately one to four days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 500-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Chapel Hill to New York City guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best Movers By Type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best Professional Movers from New York City to Chapel Hill

Choosing a long-distance moving company in New York City to go to Chapel Hill can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

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 NY to NC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York 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 New York City to Chapel Hill moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in New York City that offers long-distance services to Chapel Hill 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 New York City 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 New York City to Chapel Hill.

  1. White Glove Moving & Storage: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Great Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Roadway Moving : 4.86 out of 5 stars
  5. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/WhiteGloveMoving, https://twitter.com/WGMoving
90% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Across 741 customer reviews, White Glove Moving & Storage shines for their meticulous handling, professionalism, and swift, efficient work—nearly 90% of feedback expresses satisfaction. Movers are repeatedly recognized for careful treatment of items, reliable communication, and prompt execution, often exceeding expectations. Customers cite friendly, organized teams and well-wrapped belongings as standout features.
A minority report issues like damaged goods, delayed delivery, or unexpected fees, especially with long-distance jobs or storage. Compared to typical moving companies, White Glove receives notably fewer complaints about lost or mishandled property. While most customers strongly recommend them, a few warn to clarify terms up front to avoid delivery surprises or extra expenses. White Glove’s track record for dependable, courteous service sets them ahead in the industry, as reflected in consistently positive input from clients.
Show more
Get a Quote (877) 941-0568

Company Info

State license #: 648262

Years in Business: 29

DOT #: 648262


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/PieceofCakeMoving/, https://twitter.com/pieceofcakemove?lang=en
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions.
Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 651-7273

Company Info

State license #: 40244

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3066988

Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/greatmoversnyc/, https://twitter.com/greatmoversny
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input about Great Movers stands out for its consistency—210 out of 221 reviews are positive, amounting to 95% glowing feedback. Clients repeatedly praise the company for efficient, friendly, and highly professional service. Most cite careful handling of possessions, quick and seamless moves, affordable pricing, and clear communication as standouts.
People frequently highlight stress-free relocations, respectful crews, and precise timing, making Great Movers an appealing choice for those seeking reliability. Negative feedback, only 5%, centers largely on significant damages to items, disappointing insurance payouts, and surprise charges. Some report unprofessional behaviors during complaints and claim poor handling of property damage issues. Compared with other movers, Great Movers excels in customer satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, but documented damages and insurance disputes are notable risks, so care is warranted on that front.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 306-9980

Company Info

State license #: 39493

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2180117


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RoadwayMoving/, https://x.com/roadwaymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves aren’t a myth—Roadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move.
Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focus—making them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 812-5240

Company Info

State license #: 38589

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1854436


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/DumboMoving, https://twitter.com/dumbomoving
55% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs.
Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problems—unexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyalty—or frustration—in a crowded industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 222-8282

Company Info

State license #: 36990

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1543241


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from New York City to Chapel Hill?

New York City movers charge $110 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 $1,285 - $3,344 $815 - $1,922 $518 - $922
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,370 - $5,768 $1,519 - $3,052 $535 - $1,162
4+ bedrooms $3,984 - $8,345 $2,041 - $3,622 $681 - $1,359
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 500 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 New York to North Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from New York to North Carolina will cost between $1,285 and $3,344. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NY to NC will range from $2,370 to $5,768, and a large move from New York to North Carolina will cost from $3,984 to $8,345.

Cost of moving containers from New York to North Carolina

When you're heading from New York to North Carolina, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $815 and $1,922. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,519 and $3,052. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,041 to $3,622. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York 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 $518 and $922. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $535 to $1,162. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $681 and $1,359.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors that influence moving costs from New York City to Chapel Hilltoggle

The cost of New York City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from New York City to Chapel Hill might cost as little as $1,285, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,132.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in New York City, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $518 to $1,312 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from New York City to Chapel Hill

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

Check out how New York City compares to Chapel Hill so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New York City Chapel Hill
Average rent cost $4,340 $1,950
Average home value $752,778 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $65,621
Cost of living (single person) $5,683 $2,248
Cost of living (family of 4) $15,081 $4,790
Unemployment rate 11.2% 3.2%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.5%
State income tax 10.9% 4.5%
  • Rent prices in Chapel Hill are 55% lower than in New York City, 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 Chapel Hill.
    Home prices in Chapel Hill are 21.3% lower than in New York City.
  • Income in Chapel Hill is 15.9% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Chapel Hill — including University of North Carolina, Performance Bicycle, and Investors Title — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chapel Hill. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 60.4% lower than in New York City.
  • A move to Chapel Hill 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 68.2% less than what it costs in New York City.
  • The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is 71.43% lower than in New York City.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Chapel Hill, since the city's sales taxes in Chapel Hill are 6.25% lower than in New York City.
  • One perk of moving to Chapel Hill is paying less in state income taxes, which are 58.72% lower than in New York City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,186.70 in Chapel Hill to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.

How life is different in New York City vs. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill New York City
Population 63,764 8,258,035
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 10
Walkability score 34 88
Bike friendliness score 50 69
Crime Index 26.42 50.83
Safety Index 73.58 49.17
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Chapel Hill might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 99% less than New York City.
  • Getting around Chapel Hill without a car might be more difficult than in New York City. Chapel Hill has a public transportation score of 6 out of 10, whereas New York City is ranked 10. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Chapel Hill neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as New York City. Based on its score of 34 out of 100, Chapel Hill isn't as walkable as New York City, which has a score of 88 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Chapel Hill, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than New York City. While New York City has a bike-friendliness score of 69 out of 100, Chapel Hill earned a 50. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Chapel Hill has a lower crime rate than New York City based on scores of 26.42 and New York City's 50.83, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Chapel Hill than in New York City, based on Chapel Hill's safety index of 73.58 versus 49.17 for New York City. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Chapel Hill isn't as good as it is in New York City, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. Chapel Hill has an air quality rating of Moderate, and New York City is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.

Other things to consider for your New York City vs. Chapel Hill move

  • Weather: May, September and October are the most pleasant months for moving as these are the driest month in Chapel Hill in a yearl, while January and July are the months you need to watch out as there might be some weather-related delays.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in North Carolina, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While North Carolina doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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 Chapel Hill without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Now that you've decided to make the move to Southern Part of Heaven, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Winmore
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Southern Village
  • Governor's Club
  • Claremont/Claremont South

Things to do in Chapel Hill

After getting comfortable in your new North Carolina home, it's time to see what Chapel Hill is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chapel Hill include museums and art centers like the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Kidzu Children's Museum, and FRANK Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New York City to Chapel Hill?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from New York City to Chapel Hill. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in New York City.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Chapel Hill?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from New York City to Chapel Hill moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from New York City to Chapel Hill take?

Covering 500 miles, the move from New York City, NY to Chapel Hill, NC typically takes one to four days. Some New York City movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chapel Hill can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources