Moving from Boston to Columbus?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate 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.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to Columbus Movers

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

#1
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

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 >>

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top 3 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#2
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,675+ data points

Cambridge, MA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3638077 Verify

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 >>

top 3 boston 2024 centaur moving image
#3
Blue Men Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,226+ data points

Pickerington, OH
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3544037 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in columbus 2023 blue men moving llc image
top 10 ranked movers in columbus 2022 blue men moving llc image
#4
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,979+ data points

Arlington, MA
Local moving services, Long-distance and interstate moving services, Cheap moving rates with two or three movers See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2065664 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in boston 2023 intelligent labor moving image
top 10 ranked movers in boston 2022 intelligent labor moving image
#5
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo
Exceptional

based on 452+ data points

Trenton, OH
Local Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 3050908 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in new middletown 2023 manifest shipping llc image

Relocating from Boston to Columbus Neighborhood Guide

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 .

BostonColumbus
Back BayShort North

Trendy area with boutiques, galleries, and eateries

Beacon HillGerman Village

Historic charm with cobblestone streets and brick homes

South EndItalian Village

Diversity of restaurants and renovated lofts

CambridgeClintonville

College town ambiance with parks and local shops

Seaport DistrictArena District

Modern urban living with bars and entertainment

North EndVictorian Village

Historic area with a rich immigrant history

Jamaica PlainBexley

Diverse community with a range of local dining options

FenwayUniversity District

Vibrant with students and collegiate atmosphere

CharlestownOlde Towne East

Historic homes with community revitalization

BrooklineUpper Arlington

Family-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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Things to Do in Columbus

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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.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Boston to Columbus

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 item

Clam ChowderBuckeye Candy

Most popular meat dish

Lobster RollColumbus Hot Chicken

Most popular street food item

Italian SausageTaco Trucks Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan 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

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

78

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

87

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.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Boston to Columbus

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.

OleanaThe Refectory

Elegant dining and sophisticated menus

Neptune OysterThe Pearl

Renowned for seafood and oysters

Mike's PastryPistacia Vera

Iconic spot for pastries and sweets

ToroBarcelona Restaurant

Spanish cuisine with a fantastic tapas selection

Regina PizzeriaHarvest Pizzeria

Known for delicious, artisanal pizzas

UniKihachi

Authentic Japanese dining experience

No. 9 ParkVeritas

Contemporary American cuisine with a creative twist

Santarpio's PizzaLate Night Slice

Casual and beloved local pizza joint

Flour Bakery + CafeFox in the Snow Cafe

Famous for baked goods and a cozy atmosphere

GiuliaRigsby's Kitchen

Italian 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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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Boston to Columbus

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.

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.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Columbus, OH

1. German Village: Recognized for its picturesque brick streets and cozy atmosphere, German Village is incredibly pet-friendly with Schiller Park being a central spot for dog walking and socializing.

2. Short North: Known as the art and soul of Columbus, Short North is bustling with pet-friendly patios, boutiques like One Line Coffee that welcome furry friends, and several pet shops ensuring your pet's needs are always met.

3. Clintonville: Offering a more laid-back vibe, Clintonville is full of green spaces and parks such as the Whetstone Park of Roses, making it an ideal neighborhood for leisurely walks and outings with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Boston to Columbus

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)

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.

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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.

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.

Political & Religious Comparison between Boston, MA and Columbus, OH

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-up

Liberal/DemocraticModerately Liberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive policies, strong union presenceProgressive on social issues, economic development focused

Religion

Catholicism 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.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Boston to Columbus

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.

BostonColumbus
3023

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

96

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesNo

Can you get by without car?

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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