Moving from Arizona to DC?

6 Best AZ to DC Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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AZ to DC Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another marks the start of an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind Arizona’s sun-soaked deserts and opting for the bustling heart of democracy in D.C. means swapping the Grand Canyon for the Potomac, cacti for cherry blossoms. Given the complexities of such a long-distance move, it’s crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We at Great Guys Moving take pride in connecting you with the best movers, using an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you make an informed decision.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from DC to Arizona guide.

6 Best Arizona to DC Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Sterling Interstate LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 2,279+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3006713 Verify

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>

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#2
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 6,631+ data points

Hyattsville, MD
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT: 2005212 Verify

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>

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#3
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,108+ data points

Washington DC, DC
Local Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2474176 Verify

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>

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#4
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo
Exceptional

based on 991+ data points

Peoria, AZ
Long Distance Moves, Local Moves, Business Relocation See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT: 3656946 Verify

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>

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#5
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,091+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1877603 Verify

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2023 creative moving and packing llc image
top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2022 creative moving and packing llc image
#6
Camelback Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,248+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving, Commercial & Office Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1635834 Verify

About Camelback Moving

Camelback Moving has been operating in the Phoenix area for over 15 years as one of the area's largest independently-owned moving companies....Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Arizona to DC

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, requiring a balanced view of what you'll gain and lose. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of Arizona to DC relocation, examining both the challenges and benefits. By contrasting the pros and cons, this guide will help you make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Arizona iconArizona
  • Extreme heat
  • Sparse vegetation
  • Lower walkability
  • Less public transit
DC iconDC
  • Seasonal weather
  • Lush landscapes
  • High walkability
  • Extensive public transit
DC iconDC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller living spaces
  • More traffic
  • Less sunny days
Arizona iconArizona
  • Lower cost of living
  • Wide open spaces
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More sunny days

Moving from the wide open spaces and consistent sunshine of Arizona to the bustling, historic streets of DC offers a dramatic change in lifestyle. You might miss the sprawling landscapes of the Southwest, but the vibrant neighborhoods of DC, such as Georgetown with its scenic waterfront and array of restaurants, or the iconic National Mall for a leisurely stroll or a visit to one of its many museums, offer new settings for exploration and enjoyment. DC's extensive public transit system, including the Metro, will ease your commute, contrasting sharply with the reliance on personal vehicles in Arizona. Additionally, the city's higher walkability means that quaint cafés, lush parks like Rock Creek Park, and historic sites are often just a short walk away, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that Arizona's more dispersed layout cannot match.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Arizona to DC

This comparison of the local cuisine between Arizona & DC aims to enlighten you on the diverse food scene you will encounter as you transition. Food greatly shapes the cultural landscape and living experience in a new area, offering you a taste of the unique flavors and culinary practices distinctive to each location.

ArizonaDC

Most iconic local food item

Navajo TacoHalf-Smoke

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaMumbo Sauce Wings

Most popular street food item

Sonoran Hot DogJumbo Slice Pizza

Most popular vegan food

Vegan TacosVegan Soul Food

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • El Charro Café
  • Welcome Diner
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Zaytinya

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

89

When moving from Arizona to DC, you'll transition from the rich, bold flavors of the Southwest to a more eclectic and internationally influenced cuisine. In DC, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Shaw are veritable hotbeds for foodies, offering a variety of dining experiences that span the globe. Don't miss trying a half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, a Washington DC staple known to both locals and tourists alike. While Arizona's cuisine is deeply rooted in Mexican and Native American traditions, offering unique dishes like the Navajo Taco, DC's food scene prides itself on a diverse range of culinary traditions, influenced by the myriad of cultures represented in the nation's capital.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Arizona to DC

When considering a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Arizona and DC will illuminate key differences in housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more, helping you make an informed decision.

The shift from Arizona's wide, open spaces and its notable Spanish Colonial and Ranch-style homes to DC's densely built environment with historic Victorian and Federal architecture styles is profound. The urban lifestyle score reflects DC's vibrant city life, greatly supported by its higher walkability and bikeability scores, emphasizing a less car-dependent lifestyle. While the cost of living is markedly higher in DC, notably in housing prices and rent, residents benefit from easy access to public transportation, cultural landmarks, and a rich array of dining and entertainment options. The mention of pools and garages in Arizona’s real estate listings highlights a preference for private amenities, contrasted with DC's emphasis on proximity to metro stations and historic architectural details, showcasing the lifestyle differences between these two regions.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Arizona to DC

When preparing to move from one region to another, comparing the climates can help you adjust more smoothly. Understanding how Arizona's weather will differ from DC's is crucial for planning. This comparison will outline key weather parameters to help you grasp the changes and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
106°F/83°F

Arizona

88°F/71°F

DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F/46°F

Arizona

47°F/30°F

DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13

Arizona

40

DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.3

Arizona

15.4

DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In shifting from Arizona to DC, you'll not only experience a decrease in temperature, particularly in summer, but also a significant change in humidity and precipitation patterns. Arizona's arid climate with high temperatures and low humidity contrasts sharply with DC's four distinct seasons, colder winters, and notably higher humidity. The number of sunny days drops as you move eastward, and you'll encounter more rain and snow in DC. Moreover, the types of natural disasters and seasonal allergies you'll need to prepare for will differ, necessitating adjustments in your lifestyle and possibly even in your health precautions.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Arizona to DC

Moving from one location to another can significantly impact your finances. This comparison aims to illustrate the differences in moving from Arizona to DC , focusing on various economic factors to help you understand how the cost of living, taxes , and income will compare.

When moving from Arizona to DC, it's essential to prepare for a higher cost of living. However, this increase is often offset by higher average household incomes in DC. The tax rates also vary significantly, with DC residents facing higher state income tax brackets, potentially affecting your take-home pay. Despite the higher living costs, DC's concentration of high-paying jobs in government and professional services sectors can provide financial benefits. Additionally, while both regions face challenges with poverty and homelessness, these issues manifest differently due to urban versus suburban demographics and housing availability.

Political & Religious Comparison between Arizona and DC

When considering a move from Arizona to Washington D.C., understanding the comparison of the politics between Arizona & DC alongside religious makeup provides a quick snapshot of residents' political and spiritual communities. This overview aids in anticipating the cultural transition.

ArizonaDC

Political Make-up

Moderately conservative, swing stateStrongly liberal

Local Politics

Mix of both major partiesPrimarily Democratic

Religion

Christian majority with a diverse spiritual landscapeChristian majority, particularly Protestant, with notable non-religious and Jewish communities

Moving from a politically diverse Arizona, where both major parties have significant representation, to Washington D.C., a strongly liberal area, presents a stark shift in political atmosphere. This transition may impact your local social interactions and community engagement. Arizona's religious landscape is predominantly Christian but quite diverse, reflecting a mix of beliefs and practices. In comparison, Washington D.C. also has a Christian majority but with a higher proportion of non-religious individuals and a notable Jewish community. Navigating these differences will be pivotal in adapting to your new surroundings.

Education Guide When Moving from Arizona to DC

If you're pondering a move from Arizona to DC, comparing educational systems is crucial to making an informed decision. This chart aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Arizona and DC, focusing on various educational levels and districts. By examining these differences, you'll navigate your move with your family's educational needs in mind.

ArizonaDC

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Arizona State University
University of Arizona
Northern Arizona University
Georgetown University
George Washington University
American University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Basis Scottsdale
Basis Oro Valley
Basis Peoria
Janney Elementary
Mann Elementary
Eaton Elementary

Top 3 Middle Schools

Basis Chandler
Basis Tucson North
Basis Peoria
Deal Middle School
Hardy Middle School
Stokes School

Top 3 High Schools

Basis Scottsdale
Basis Chandler
Basis Oro Valley
School Without Walls
Banneker High School
Wilson High School

Top 3 private high schools

Brophy College Preparatory
Phoenix Country Day School
The Gregory School
Sidwell Friends School
Georgetown Day School
St. Albans School

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Gregory School
Rancho Solano Preparatory School
Phoenix Country Day School
Sidwell Friends School
Georgetown Day School
Maret School

Top 3 School Districts

Scottsdale Unified School District
Catalina Foothills School District
Chandler Unified School District
DC Public Schools

In delving deeper into the distinct educational landscapes of Arizona and DC, it's evident that both locations offer a robust selection of highly rated institutions across all levels. For instance, BASIS schools in Arizona are renowned for their rigorous curriculum and consistently rank high nationally, providing a strong foundation from elementary through high school. In contrast, DC's offerings like Sidwell Friends School and School Without Walls highlight a commitment to diverse educational philosophies ranging from Quaker values to public, college-preparatory experiences. Particularly noteworthy are the top universities attended by high school seniors, with Arizona students typically staying within state boundaries, while DC students often find themselves at prestigious institutions known for their global impact. This comparison underscores the rich educational opportunities awaiting your family, whether you're leaning towards the grandeur of DC's historical education system or the innovative, top-ranking schools of Arizona.

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