If you’re thinking about moving to North Carolina, you’ll join nearly 11 million other residents who enjoy natural beauty combined with innovation for a high quality of life. Before transitioning into a Tar Heel, there is important information you should know. The right information eases the transition and helps you enjoy North Carolina as a local.
There is no way to learn everything before moving, but you can learn an abundance of information ahead of time, like the best places to live, how to find good state-to-state movers and top employers. Our detailed guide has this information and more. We hope you can comfortably and knowledgeably move equipped with this information.
Cost to Move to North Carolina
The average moving cost in North Carolina is $1,100. This cost varies from one move to another based on factors like the size of the move, time of the year, the moving company selected, and distance traveled. It’s possible that you’ll pay more or less for your move.
The closer to North Carolina you currently live, the better rates. Take a look at a few examples to get a better idea of typical moving rates:
- Carolina to N. Carolina averages $328 – $3,500+
- California to N. Carolina average $5,000 – $10,300+
- Texas to N. Carolina averages $1,140 – $8,050+
- New York to N. Carolina averages $3,000 – $10,000+
The best time of year to move from one state to another depends on what you want in the move. Looking for the best rates? Consider moving during the winter when movers typically aren’t busy.
Hire a Licensed and Insured Moving Company
Never hire a moving company operating without a license. This company is operating illegally. Working with this type of mover puts your belongings and money at risk.
Local movers are licensed under the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Long-distance moving companies, commonly referred to as interstate movers, are licensed under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Most movers carry the necessary licenses to operate but if you encounter illegally-operating movers, avoid them at all costs. These movers make exaggerated promises and offer too-good-to-be-true rates while putting your belongings and wallet at risk.
In addition to license and insurance, a good moving company has:
- Positive recommendations from previous customers
- Good reviews
- Transparent rates
- Successful track record
How to Save Money on Moving Costs
Every decision made during the relocation process affects costs, starting with the items packed to move with you. Looking for a few money-saving moving tricks?
The simplest and easiest way to save money on your move happens during the packing process. Sort through your belongings, tossing unusable and unwanted items; never pack these goods to take along on the move as they’ll only add on costs.
Moving companies move your belongings at per mile and per pound rates. The less stuff loaded onto the truck, the less expense.
The moving company selected affects the moving costs as well. Take time to get those quotes and compare movers. This helps find rates accommodating to your budget.
Many other money-saving tricks can greatly reduce your moving expenses. The best tips that will help save money:
- Research moving companies
- Get quotes from three movers
- Consider an off-season move
- Buy your own packing supplies
- Look for discounts (military, AAA, senior, etc.)
The Economy in North Carolina
According to an analysis by WalletHub, North Carolina has the 7th best economy in the nation in 2022, up four spots from its position in 2021. Food processing, banking, technology, and pharmaceuticals are the state’s biggest industries.
A total of 13 Fortune 500 companies have a large presence in North Carolina. Among them:
- com
- Wal-Mart
- Exxon Mobil
- Laboratory Corp. of America
- Advance Auto Parts
To live comfortably in North Carolina you’ll need a monthly income of $4,650 or $54,480 per year. In 2021, the median household income in the state was just over $56,000 per year.
To put this in better perspective, North Carolina ranked:
- 9 in population
- 11 for innovation potential
- 12 in economic health
- No. 14 for economic activity
The Research Triangle
North Carolina is a tech hub that’s home to an area known as The Research Triangle. The area covers the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Schools in the Research Triangle include Duke University, North Carolina State University, and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.
The Research Triangle attracts many large corporations and businesses to the Piedmont area. Residents appreciate the affordable cost of living offered in The Triangle and often make their homes in the neighborhood.
People holding tech degrees or who hope to graduate with such a degree in the near future enjoy life in The Triangle. Home to Research Triangle Business Park and numerous tech companies, endless career options exist within The Triangle.
Let loose in The Triangle at one of the many entertainment or dining options. Restaurants in The Triangle offer food so delicious, and both Bon Appetit and Gourmet magazines praise its food scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip my movers?
Tipping movers is a great way to thank them for their hard work. Although not required, movers welcome tips. A bit of monetary gratuity and appreciation boosts anyone’s spirits, especially movers working so hard to get your stuff to North Carolina. An appropriate amount for a tip ranges between 10% and 15% of the total cost of the job.
When is the best time of year to move to North Carolina?
Springtime is the best time of year to move to North Carolina. During the months of March to early May, the weather is great but it’s not as busy for cross-country movers as many people might think. Score the cheapest moving rates during a move during November or December.
Can I help the movers with my stuff?
It is understandable that you want to help movers pack, load, and otherwise move your belongings. The best way to help movers is by keeping pets and kids out of the way. You can also offer snacks or bottles of water. Rest assured moving professionals appreciate your offer to help but have everything under control.
What’s the cost of living like in N. Carolina?
North Carolina costs 5% less than the national average. Expect to live a comfortable life anywhere in the state. Housing ranks in the 80th percentile, good news for renters and homebuyers alike.
How many movers does it take to unscrew a light bulb?
However many it takes! Unscrewing light bulbs and removing light shades is one of many white glove services moving companies offer. They can pack and unpack your stuff, load the truck, drive the truck, assemble/disassemble furniture, and make sure your belongings arrive in North Carolina without the need for you to lift a finger.
Get to Know North Carolina on a Personal Level
We hope the things to know before moving to North Carolina listed in our guide make it easy to fashion yourself as a Tar Heel after an easy relocation process.
