Trusted. Licensed. Insured.Moving from state to state is not just a journey across the map, but an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. Swapping the bustling, historical streets of the Nation's Capital for Montana's sprawling, breath-taking landscapes, affectionately known as Big Sky Country, presents a blend of urban charm and serene nature. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, it's pivotal to ensure you're supported by trusted and reliable professional movers, like those our team at Great Guys Moving ranks, to make this transition as smooth as possible.
Moving from DC to Montana?
6 Best DC to MT Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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6 Best DC to Montana Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
#1
| 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 >>
#2
| 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 >>
#3
| Alexandria, VA | |
| Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Packing Services See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/6/2022) | |
| USDOT: 3338902 Verify |
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>
#4
| Rockville, MD | |
| Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Residential Moving Services See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/8/2022) | |
| USDOT: 2431129 Verify |
About Treasure Moving Company
Carrying all of your worldly possessions to a new location is no small feat. Throw in the fact that you’re probably leaving behind family an...Read More >>
#5
M
| Deer Lodge, MT | |
| Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Commercial Moves See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/14/2023) | |
| USDOT: 3890213 Verify |
About Moving On Up
Moving On Up is a Montana-based moving company that specializes in providing reliable, honest, and efficient moving services to its customer...Read More >>
#6
| Bozeman, MT | |
| Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Packing Help See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/16/2021) | |
| USDOT: 2399161 Verify |
About On The Move LLC
On The Move LLC provides excellent moving services throughout Southwest Montana, including Belgrade, Big Sky, Livingston, Paradise Valley, T...Read More >>
Pros and Cons of Moving from DC to Montana
Moving from one place to another brings its share of changes. This guide provides an honest reflection of relocating from Washington D.C. to Montana , highlighting both the perks and the challenges through comparative charts. These visuals aim to help you weigh the advantages against the disadvantages, ensuring you make an informed decision about this significant life change.
CONs
PROs
DC- High cost of living
- Bustling city life
- Heavy traffic
- Less personal space
Montana- Lower cost of living
- Tranquil nature
- Open roads
- Spacious landscapes
Montana- Lesser diversity
- Dependent on cars
- Fewer historical sites
- Quieter evenings
DC- Cultural diversity
- Public transit options
- Rich history
- Vibrant nightlife
Moving to Montana from Washington D.C. invites an adjustment from the hustle and bustle of city life to the calm and serenity of nature. A significant benefit you'll notice is the cost of living, which is considerably lower in Montana—allowing for a more relaxed lifestyle, possibly even securing a property with breathtaking views of the Big Sky country. While D.C. boasts a rich history, easily accessible by its comprehensive public transit system, covering sites from the Smithsonian Museums to the National Mall, Montana offers its own history surrounded by natural beauty. Towns like Bozeman or Missoula bridge the gap between urban convenience and rural charm, with local eateries such as the Bozeman Co-Op offering fresh, local produce. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the vast, open landscapes, including Glacier National Park's stunning vistas and Yellowstone's natural wonders, far removed from D.C.'s heavy traffic and dense population. Transitioning to Montana might mean adjusting to more car-dependent living and quieter evenings, but it also opens the door to a life enriched by nature and community.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from DC to Montana
Food plays a pivotal role in defining the local culture and living experience of a place. Through this guide, we aim to shine a light on what to expect from the dining scene by highlighting a comparison of the local cuisine between DC & Montana. This overview will help you navigate the culinary waters of your new home.
| DC | Montana |
|---|---|
Most iconic local food item Half-SmokeHuckleberry Pie | |
Most popular meat dish Mumbo Sauce on Chicken WingsBuffalo Steak | |
Most popular street food item Jumbo Slice PizzaElk Burgers | |
Most popular vegan food Quinoa SaladLentil Soup | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 87 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 94 | |
Foodie Scene 96 | |
Vegan Friendly 85 | |
In Washington DC, the bustling street food scene, epitomized by the Jumbo Slice Pizza, speaks volumes about the city's love for diverse and accessible cuisine. Ben's Chili Bowl, a historic restaurant, serves as a culinary landmark with its famous Half-Smoke. For those venturing to Montana, the local flavor skews towards the rustic, featuring dishes such as Buffalo Steak and a penchant for huckleberry-infused sweets like the iconic Huckleberry Pie. The state's laid-back dining experience can be savored in establishments like The Ranch at Rock Creek or Loula's Cafe, places where the local food truly shines amidst Montana's picturesque backdrop.
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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from DC to Montana
Real estate is a pivotal factor in deciding to move. Understanding how housing aspects between DC and Montana compare can enlighten your decision. Let's delve into the differences and similarities that each location offers in terms of the cost of living, architectural style, and lifestyle.
When comparing housing between DC and Montana, it's evident that lifestyle choices play a significant role. In DC, the high walkability and bikeability scores reflect the urban environment that promotes a less car-dependent lifestyle, which can be very appealing for those who thrive in vibrant cities. Historic charm and proximity to the metro are highly prized, evident in many real estate listings. On the other hand, Montana offers a drastic shift towards more space and natural beauty, with mountain views and acreage frequently highlighted. This appeals to those seeking a quieter, more outdoors-oriented life. The difference in median home prices and rent reflects the cost of living variation, with Montana offering more affordable options compared to DC's pricier housing market.
Weather Considerations for Moving from DC to Montana
When planning a move from DC to Montana, it becomes essential to compare the weather conditions you're accustomed to with what you'll encounter in your new home. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare accordingly. In the following charts, we boldly highlight the weather differences between DC and Montana to give you a clearer idea of how your daily life and seasonal activities might change.
87°F / 71°F
DC
85°F / 50°F
Montana
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
44°F / 29°F
DC
34°F / 17°F
Montana
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
40.8"
DC
15.3"
Montana
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
15.5"
DC
67"
Montana
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
In comparing DC to Montana, it's clear that while both locations enjoy a similar number of sunny days, the overall climate and weather hazards diverge significantly. Montana's winter temperatures are considerably colder than DC's, with a greater likelihood of snowfall, aligning with its reputation for splendid winter sports conditions. Conversely, DC's summers are more humid, influencing both comfort and the types of vegetation that thrives. Additionally, the types of natural disasters that pose risks are vastly different, with Montana facing potential wildfires and heavy snowstorms, while DC is more prone to hurricanes and floods. Understanding these variations can aid in your preparation for seasonal activities and emergency planning.
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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from DC to Montana
When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to gauge how the cost of living, taxes, and income between DC and Montana will impact your finances. This comparison will provide a clearer view of what to expect financially as you transition to your new home.
In transitioning from DC to Montana, you'll notice a significant difference in average household income and the cost of living index. This decrease in income is counterbalanced by a lower cost of living in Montana, making daily and luxury expenses more manageable. Additionally, the absence of sales tax in Montana can contribute to substantial savings over time. Property taxes are slightly higher in Montana, reflecting the state's investment in local services. Understanding the economic landscape, including the dominant industries in Montana such as agriculture and tourism, can provide insights into job opportunities and the overall lifestyle change you can expect. This financial overview should help in preparing for a move that's not just a change of scenery, but also a shift in economic environment.
Political & Religious Comparison between DC and Montana
Moving from one state to another can present quite the cultural shift, especially when it comes to the politics and religion between DC & Montana . This quick comparison aims to provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of both states, highlighting both differences and similarities.
| DC | Montana |
|---|---|
Political Make-up Primarily DemocraticLean Republican | |
Local Politics Liberal policies and initiativesConservative, with a focus on state rights | |
Religion Varied, with no single dominant religionPrimarily Protestant, with significant Catholic representation | |
Understanding the political and religious landscapes of DC and Montana can help you anticipate the cultural environment you’re stepping into. In DC, the atmosphere leans heavily Democratic, which is reflected in its liberal policies and diverse religious practices. By contrast, Montana has a Republican tilt and prioritizes conservative values, alongside a Protestant majority with a considerable Catholic presence. Whether it's visiting a local church in Montana or engaging in political discussions in a DC cafe, embracing these aspects will enrich your transition and integration into your new home.
Education Guide When Moving from DC to Montana
Moving between the bustling urban landscape of DC and the expansive natural beauty of Montana brings with it a spectrum of changes, especially in the area of education. To make this transition smoother, it's critical to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in DC and Montana . This will help you make informed decisions for your family's educational needs.
| DC | Montana |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) Georgetown University George Washington University Howard UniversityUniversity of Montana Montana State University Montana Tech | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Mann Elementary School (Washington) Eaton Elementary School (Washington) Janney Elementary School (Washington)Hawthorne Elementary School (Bozeman) Morning Star Elementary School (Bozeman) Chief Joseph Elementary School (Great Falls) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Deal Middle School (Washington) Hardy Middle School (Washington) Jefferson Middle School Academy (Washington)Sacajawea Middle School (Bozeman) C.R. Anderson Middle School (Helena) East Middle School (Great Falls) | |
Top 3 High Schools School Without Walls High School (Washington) Banneker High School (Washington) Wilson High School (Washington)Bozeman High School (Bozeman) Hellgate High School (Missoula) Sentinel High School (Missoula) | |
Top 3 private high schools Georgetown Preparatory School (North Bethesda) Sidwell Friends School (Washington) St. Albans School (Washington)Missoula International School (Missoula) Great Falls Central Catholic High School (Great Falls) Billings Central Catholic High School (Billings) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Sidwell Friends School (Washington) Georgetown Day School (Washington) Maret School (Washington)Petra Academy (Bozeman) Missoula International School (Missoula) Valley Christian School (Missoula) | |
Top 3 School Districts District of Columbia Public SchoolsBozeman School District Missoula County Public Schools Great Falls Public Schools | |
Moving from DC to Montana introduces a shift in educational landscapes, from the highly urban-focused, competitive environment of DC's prestigious institutions like George Washington University and Sidwell Friends School, to Montana's more intimate settings like University of Montana and Petra Academy in Bozeman. In Montana, education often emphasizes outdoor learning and environmental conservation, reflective of the state's profound natural surroundings. Montana schools like Bozeman High School pride themselves on high academic standards while being nestled in a town known for its access to outdoor adventures. This exemplifies the unique blending of educational rigor with a lifestyle deeply connected to the natural world, a stark contrast to the more urban-centric education offered in DC.
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