How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to NC move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 71 Tennessee 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 Tennessee to North Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Tennessee 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 |
$1,194 – $3,467 |
$644 – $1,553 |
$411 – $827 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,183 – $5,374 |
$1,199 – $2,418 |
$461 – $963 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,848 – $7,595 |
$1,518 – $3,057 |
$547 – $1,071 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 565-mile move from TN 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 Tennessee to North Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tennessee to North Carolina typically costs between
$1,194 and
$3,467.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,183
and $5,374
when moving from TN to NC.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Tennessee to North Carolina,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,848
up to $7,595.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to North Carolina
If you’re relocating from Tennessee to North Carolina,
you’ll typically spend between $644
and $1,553 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,199 up to
$2,418.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,518 and
$3,057. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Tennessee.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee 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
$411 and
$827.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$461 to
$963.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $547 and
$1,071.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to NC
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Tennessee 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 Tennessee, which usually means higher prices.
-
Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from TN to NC
Transitioning from Tennessee 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: Tennessee vs. North Carolina
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Tennessee and North Carolina are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Tennessee |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
4.5% |
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Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to North Carolina from Tennessee with rent being about the same in each state.
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Home prices in North Carolina and Tennessee are pretty similar, so you won’t need to adjust your mortgage budget unless you’re planning to move into a bigger or better place.
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There’s no need to worry about your budget, since average incomes are about the same in both Tennessee and North Carolina.
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Moving to North Carolina means you’ll be spending 7% more than you did in Tennessee. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment in North Carolina is about 12% higher than in Tennessee. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax in North Carolina is 27% lower than in Tennessee, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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North Carolina has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in North Carolina vs. Tennessee
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 Tennessee compare.
|
North Carolina |
Tennessee |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
29.24 |
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If you’re moving from Tennessee to North Carolina, you’ll find North Carolina has about 52% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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The last presidential election saw both Tennessee and North Carolina siding with the Republican party.
-
The average summer high in North Carolina is 88°F, while Tennessee averages 88°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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During the coldest months, North Carolina averages 29°F while Tennessee sees lows of 27°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
In North Carolina, you’ll experience about 48 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
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.
-
In North Carolina, you can expect about 4 inches of snow each year.
By comparison, Tennessee typically gets around 5 inches annually.
Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
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North Carolina boasts a lower crime rate than Tennessee, with a crime index of 24.69 compared to 29.24.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Tennessee vs. North Carolina
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in North Carolina to Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Great communities |
| No income taxes |
Low cost of living |
| Legendary music scene |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
High quality of life |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. North Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Tennessee to North Carolina:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Tendency for severe weather |
Hurricanes |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Bland weather |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
High crime rate |
| Traffic congestion |
High tax burden |
| High urban crime rates |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee 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.
-
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 Tennessee to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee to North Carolina?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Tennessee to
North Carolina
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to North Carolina?
Many people are making the move from Tennessee 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 Tennessee or North Carolina?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in North Carolina.
Housing
is more affordable in Tennessee,
with average rent about 4% less and home prices 3% lower than in North Carolina.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and North Carolina.
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 Tennessee?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Tennessee:
5 provide military discounts;
3 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
1 advertise educator discounts;
2 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Tennessee moving services
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When relocating from Tennessee to North Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,183 to
$5,374, roughly
$1,808 for a container move, and close to
$712
for a rental truck.
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