Best Boston to Columbus Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Boston to Columbus Movers

Moving city to city marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving Boston's historic charm and vibrant culture for Columbus's friendly neighborhoods and booming job market can feel like leaving one home for another, each with its unique appeal. Understanding the importance of this journey, we stress the significance of selecting trusted and reliable professional movers for your move from Boston, MA to Columbus, OH, ensuring a smooth transition into your next adventure.

Massachusetts iconArrow iconOhio icon

Best Boston to Columbus Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Stairhopper Movers9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Centaur Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Blue Men Moving LLC9.56A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Intelligent labor & Moving9.51A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Manifest Shipping Llc9.19A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to Columbus Moving Companies

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/20/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/21/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Blue Men Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,226+ data points

About Blue Men Moving LLC

With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior moving experience...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/20/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3544037 / 1184394

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved78,500 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/20/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo
Exceptional9.19/10
based on 452+ data points

About Manifest Shipping Llc

Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and s...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3050908 / 49758

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved46,740 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Boston vs. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison

This comparison helps you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in one city with the closest similar neighborhood in the other city. Here's a guide to help you navigate the neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Columbus, OH .

BostonColumbusHow They're Similar
Back BayShort NorthTrendy area with boutiques, galleries, and eateries
Beacon HillGerman VillageHistoric charm with cobblestone streets and brick homes
South EndItalian VillageDiversity of restaurants and renovated lofts
CambridgeClintonvilleCollege town ambiance with parks and local shops
Seaport DistrictArena DistrictModern urban living with bars and entertainment
North EndVictorian VillageHistoric area with a rich immigrant history
Jamaica PlainBexleyDiverse community with a range of local dining options
FenwayUniversity DistrictVibrant with students and collegiate atmosphere
CharlestownOlde Towne EastHistoric homes with community revitalization
BrooklineUpper ArlingtonFamily-friendly area with parks and good schools

If you enjoy the upscale and trendy atmosphere of Boston's Back Bay, you'll find Columbus' Short North quite appealing with its array of boutiques, galleries, and eateries. For those who love the historic charm found in Beacon Hill, German Village in Columbus offers picturesque cobblestone streets and beautiful brick homes. Additionally, Cambridge's college town ambiance resonates well with Clintonville’s similar vibe, providing parks like Whetstone Park and local shops. Those intrigued by the cultural and dining diversity of South End would feel right at home in Italian Village, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and renovated lofts.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Columbus

Moving from one city to another can be a pivotal moment in life. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Columbus, OH. To help you weigh your options, we present two charts comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, ensuring a comprehensive view of what to expect.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Colder winters
  • Denser population
  • Longer commutes
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder winters
  • Less crowded
  • Shorter commutes
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Fewer historical sites
  • Smaller academic scene
  • Less sports fervor
  • More car-dependent
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich historical sites
  • Elite universities
  • Vibrant sports culture
  • Extensive public transit

While the move from Boston to Columbus brings a welcome change in terms of affordability and comfort, like transitioning from the high costs and snowy winters in Boston to the economic friendliness and milder climates of Ohio, it's not without its trade-offs. Columbus, despite being more spread out and affordable, doesn't boast the same historical richness or the extensive public transit system found in Boston. However, Columbus shines with its unique charm, offering lush neighborhood parks like the Scioto Mile, vibrant eat-outs such as German Village’s Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, and burgeoning arts scene highlighted by the Short North Arts District. The move certainly offers a blend of a relaxed yet engaging lifestyle, tailor-made for those looking to balance affordability with quality of life.

Boston vs. Columbus Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Columbus, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of a city. It will help you get a taste of what’s waiting for you in terms of culinary delights in your new home.

BostonColumbus
Most iconic local food itemClam ChowderBuckeye Candy
Most popular meat dishLobster RollColumbus Hot Chicken
Most popular street food itemItalian SausageTaco Trucks Tacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan SandwichesVegan Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
  • Thurman Café
  • North Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Boston, the Italian Sausage and the exquisite Clam Chowder reflect the city’s rich culinary traditions, especially found in the historic North End neighborhood. On the other hand, Columbus prides itself on innovative takes on traditional dishes, such as the Columbus Hot Chicken, which can be savored across the city but has a special resonance in the Short North area. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will find Boston slightly more accommodating, but Columbus' growing food scene is quickly becoming more inclusive, with places like the North Market serving an abundance of diverse, vegan-friendly options. Whether you're indulging in succulent seafood along Boston Harbor or exploring the eclectic eateries in Columbus, both cities offer a unique taste of local culture and cuisine.

Boston vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery can greatly help in making a new city feel like home. Whether you're moving for work, school, or just a change of scenery, the quest for restaurants that resonate with your palate is paramount. This comparison aims to ease that transition from Boston, MA to Columbus, OH by matching top restaurants to their closest equivalents , ensuring you know where to head when cravings strike in your new hometown.

BostonColumbusWhat You'll Love
OleanaThe RefectoryElegant dining and sophisticated menus
Neptune OysterThe PearlRenowned for seafood and oysters
Mike's PastryPistacia VeraIconic spot for pastries and sweets
ToroBarcelona RestaurantSpanish cuisine with a fantastic tapas selection
Regina PizzeriaHarvest PizzeriaKnown for delicious, artisanal pizzas
UniKihachiAuthentic Japanese dining experience
No. 9 ParkVeritasContemporary American cuisine with a creative twist
Santarpio's PizzaLate Night SliceCasual and beloved local pizza joint
Flour Bakery + CafeFox in the Snow CafeFamous for baked goods and a cozy atmosphere
GiuliaRigsby's KitchenItalian cuisine with emphasis on fresh, local ingredients

When you find yourself missing the cozy and bustling atmosphere of Flour Bakery + Cafe in Boston, a visit to Fox in the Snow Cafe in Columbus will fill that void with its warm, inviting environment and exceptional baked goods. Similarly, if the innovative Spanish dishes of Toro were your go-to in Boston, you'll be pleased to discover that Barcelona Restaurant in Columbus offers a tapas selection and ambiance that echoes the essence of Toro's dining experience. These parallels ensure you don't have to leave behind the flavors and atmospheres you loved; instead, you'll find new favorites that reflect the culinary diversity and character of your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison focuses on key housing metrics between Boston, MA and Columbus, OH to inform your decision.

ComparisonBostonColumbus
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and Brick Row HousesColonial Revival and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to public transportation and historic landmarksSpacious backyards and community-oriented neighborhoods

In comparison to Boston, Columbus offers significantly more affordable housing options, with the median home price and rent being far less. This difference allows for more spacious living arrangements in Columbus, often with larger yards and a focus on community, as mentioned frequently in real estate listings. Moreover, Boston's architecture is deeply rooted in its history, showcasing Victorian and brick row houses. Columbus presents a mix of Colonial Revival and Craftsman styles, reflecting its diverse architectural heritage. While Boston scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, indicating a denser, more vibrant city life, Columbus offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a growing emphasis on bikeability and community engagement.

Boston vs. Columbus Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new environment, and understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA, and Columbus, OH weather is designed to prepare you for what to expect and help you plan accordingly.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

85°F / 65°F

Columbus, OH

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

39°F / 24°F

Columbus, OH

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44"

Boston, MA

39"

Columbus, OH

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Boston, MA

22"

Columbus, OH

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonColumbus
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersNor'easters, BlizzardsTornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Boston to Columbus, you'll find that both cities share some weather characteristics, such as humidity and the presence of pollen and mold as top allergies. However, Columbus enjoys slightly warmer winters and summers, but with fewer sunny days annually. It’s interesting to note that Columbus gets significantly less snowfall than Boston, making winters potentially easier to manage for those not fond of heavy snow. On the other hand, Columbus’s higher humidity and the risk of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms might require adjustments in your routine and home maintenance compared to Boston’s nor'easters and blizzards.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Columbus

Moving from one city to another can notably impact your financial well-being. It's essential to compare the cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions between Boston, MA and Columbus, OH to better understand how your finances might change. This comparison will guide you through some key monetary aspects to consider.

ComparisonBostonColumbus
Avg. Household Income$79,283$58,202
Cost of Living Index132.592
State Income Tax53.99
Avg. Property Tax1.221.56
Avg. Sales Tax6.255.75
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, BiotechEducation, Government, Healthcare
AffluenceMore affluentLess affluent
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerHigher

The difference in average household income between Boston and Columbus highlights the varied economic landscapes of these cities. Boston's notably higher cost of living reflects in its greater average household income, making it more affluent but also more expensive to live in. The top industries in both cities indicate a strong presence of education and healthcare sectors, suggesting stable job markets in these fields. However, the aspects of affluence, poverty, and homelessness indicate social and economic disparities, stressing the importance of understanding local economies when moving. While taxes remain relatively comparable, the lower cost of living in Columbus may offer more financial flexibility despite its lower average household income.

Boston vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison

Understanding the communities you're moving between is crucial, especially when it comes to this is a comparison of the politics between Boston & Columbus . This quick glance at the political and religious landscape offers insight into what you might expect in your new city.

BostonColumbus
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticModerately Liberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive policies, strong union presenceProgressive on social issues, economic development focused
ReligionCatholicism prominent, diverse religious landscapeProtestant majority, diverse faith communities

When moving from Boston to Columbus, you'll find both cities share a Democratic political leaning, though Boston is known for its particularly liberal stance. Columbus, while also Democratic, might feel slightly more moderate in comparison. The fabric of local politics varies—Boston's rich history of labor unions and progressive policies contrasts with Columbus's focus on social progressivism alongside economic development. Religious landscapes in both cities are diverse, with Catholicism historically dominant in Boston, while Columbus has a stronger Protestant presence. However, both cities are home to a variety of faith communities, reflecting their multicultural populations.

Boston vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Boston, MA to Columbus, OH, it's critical to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options to better gauge what your daily commute and interactions with city traffic might look like. This comparison aims to prepare you for the shift in lifestyle, especially concerning how you'll navigate around your new home.

ComparisonBostonColumbus
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3023
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

In Boston, the availability and efficiency of public transit, including the MBTA system, make it one of the cities where living without a car is not only possible but often preferred due to the high traffic congestion. On the other hand, Columbus, while having public transit options like the COTA bus service, is more car-dependent due to less traffic congestion and a lower public transit availability score. This essential difference highlights that moving to Columbus may necessitate owning a car, contrasting with Boston’s more walkable and transit-friendly environment.

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