How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to NC move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 95 Washington 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 Washington to North Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Washington 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 |
$1,438 – $6,002 |
$1,365 – $3,301 |
$1,548 – $3,001 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$4,078 – $8,869 |
$2,494 – $5,209 |
$1,628 – $3,471 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$8,312 – $13,875 |
$3,176 – $6,967 |
$2,099 – $4,135 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,763-mile move from WA 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 Washington to North Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to North Carolina typically costs between
$1,438 and
$6,002.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$4,078
and $8,869
when moving from WA to NC.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Washington to North Carolina,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,312
up to $13,875.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to North Carolina
If you’re relocating from Washington to North Carolina,
you’ll typically spend between $1,365
and $3,301 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,494 up to
$5,209.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,176 and
$6,967. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington 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
$1,548 and
$3,001.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,628 to
$3,471.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $2,099 and
$4,135.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to NC
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Washington 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 Washington, 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 WA to NC
Transitioning from Washington 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: Washington vs. North Carolina
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Washington and North Carolina are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Washington |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
4.5% |
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Rent is about 42% less expensive in North Carolina than in Washington, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in North Carolina are about 44% lower than in Washington, 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 27% lower than in Washington.
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Moving to North Carolina costs about 17% less than living in Washington. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 23% lower than Washington, North Carolina offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in North Carolina runs 7% higher than in Washington, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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North Carolina has a state income tax, while Washington 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. Washington
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 Washington compare.
|
North Carolina |
Washington |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
37.32 |
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If you’re moving from Washington to North Carolina, you’ll find North Carolina has about 39% 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 Washington supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in North Carolina is 88°F compared to 79°F in Washington.
A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
-
During the coldest months, North Carolina averages 29°F while Washington sees lows of 31°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in North Carolina.
That’s quite a change from the 38 inches you’re used to back in Washington. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
-
In North Carolina, it only snows about 4 inches annually while Washington gets 18 inches.
Moving to North Carolina, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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North Carolina boasts a lower crime rate than Washington, with a crime index of 24.69 compared to 37.32.
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 Washington vs. North Carolina
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in North Carolina to Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Great communities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| High quality of life |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Delicious seafood |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. North Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Washington to North Carolina:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Constant rain |
Hurricanes |
| Bad traffic |
Bland weather |
| High cost of living |
High crime rate |
| High crime rate |
High tax burden |
| Natural disasters |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Washington 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.
-
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 Washington to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to North Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to North Carolina?
Many people are making the move from Washington 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 Washington or North Carolina?
Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in North Carolina,
with average rent about 42% less and home prices 44% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington 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 Washington?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Washington:
4 provide military discounts;
5 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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When relocating from Washington to North Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$4,078 to
$8,869, roughly
$3,851 for a container move, and close to
$2,549
for a rental truck.
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