Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia?

6 Best MA to VA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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MA to VA Moving Specialists

Embarking on a state-to-state move is not just a journey; it's an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind Massachusetts' storied cobblestones and autumnal splendors for Virginia's historic landmarks and southern charm signifies a bold transition from the Bay State to the Old Dominion. With such a significant change, it’s crucial to ensure that you have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, which is why we take pride in connecting you with the best through our unbiased ranking algorithm.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia to Massachusetts guide.

6 Best Massachusetts to Virginia Movers

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

#1
Paradise Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,118+ data points

Framingham, MA
Affordable insured local and long distance movers, Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees, Furniture wrapping See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3619865 Verify

About Paradise Moving & Storage

Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, a...Read More >>

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#2
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 ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#3
Varsity Movers LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 794+ data points

Hopkinton, MA
Local Moving, Apartment/Townhome/Condo Moving, Small Job Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3751873 Verify

About Varsity Movers LLC

Varsity Movers LLC is a moving company based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, offering services in the New England area. Established by a mother...Read More >>

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#4
ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA
Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3260258 Verify

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in leesburg 2023 ars movers image
#5
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 >>

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#6
A
Exceptional

based on 925+ data points

Hopewell, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 1293943 Verify

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia

Moving from one state to another is a significant decision that involves weighing various factors to ensure it's the right move for you. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Massachusetts to Virginia, helping you to make an informed decision. Below, you will find comparisons that highlight the cons of living in Massachusetts and how Virginia offers a refreshing change , as well as contrasting the pros of Massachusetts with potential challenges in Virginia .

CONs
PROs
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Higher cost of living
  • Harsh winters
  • Dense traffic
  • Smaller homes
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Lesser traffic
  • Larger homes
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Less historical sites
  • Fewer beaches
  • Fewer top universities
  • Lesser sports fervor
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Rich history
  • Seaside access
  • Prestigious schools
  • Vibrant sports scene

In deciding between Massachusetts and Virginia, consider not just the cost of living or climate but also the quality of life attributes that each state offers. Virginia presents an appealing mixture of urban and rural lifestyles, with numerous parks like Shenandoah National Park providing outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes. Cities like Richmond and Charlottesville offer eclectic dining scenes with establishments such as The Daily Kitchen & Bar serving up local, sustainable fare. Meanwhile, Massachusetts boasts historic towns such as Plymouth and Salem, prestigious institutions like Harvard University, and a passionate sports culture rooted in teams like the Boston Red Sox. This move isn’t just about exchanging one backdrop for another; it’s about embracing a new way of life that aligns with your priorities and interests.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia

Food plays a crucial role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of an area. Through this guide, we aim to help you get a taste of what life might be like in your new home by comparing the local cuisine between Massachusetts & Virginia . This comparison will give you a better insight into the diverse food scenes of these two states.

MassachusettsVirginia

Most iconic local food item

Clam ChowderHam

Most popular meat dish

Lobster RollFried Chicken

Most popular street food item

CannoliPeanuts

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosBBQ Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

    1. Union Oyster House
    2. Neptune Oyster
    3. Santarpio's Pizza
    1. The Shed at Smoketown
    2. Secrets Soul Food
    3. Leaping Lizard Cafe

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

78

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

While Massachusetts and Virginia offer different gustatory experiences, both states boast a rich and varied food culture. In Massachusetts, the seafood is a must-try, with places like Union Oyster House in Boston providing a historic backdrop to enjoy traditional New England fare. Virginia, on the other hand, offers a unique blend of Southern comfort food and innovative cuisine, with places like The Shed at Smoketown in Brunswick showcasing the state's modern culinary diversity with a nod to its historical roots. Whether you crave the hearty seafood of the Northeast or the comforting flavors of the South, both states offer vibrant food scenes that reflect their rich cultural heritages.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is essential. This comparison aims to shed light on the housing aspects between Massachusetts and Virginia, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle. These insights will guide your decision-making process, ensuring you find the right fit for your new home.

Both Massachusetts and Virginia offer unique living experiences, significantly influenced by their typical architecture styles and lifestyle amenities. In Massachusetts, the higher median home price and monthly rent reflect its densely populated urban areas and historical significance, with Colonial and Victorian architectures being prevalent. Meanwhile, Virginia's Colonial and Craftsman styles, along with lower housing costs, appeal to those seeking a blend of tradition and modernity, often with more space and community-focused amenities. The state's slightly lower walkability and bikeability scores highlight a more car-dependent lifestyle compared to Massachusetts. Ultimately, your choice between these states might hinge on your preference for an urban versus a more spacious suburban lifestyle.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia

Moving from one area to another dramatically changes many aspects of life, but understanding how the weather compares between Massachusetts and Virginia substantiates crucial for adapting seamlessly. This guide aims to emphasize the differences and similarities in climate you'll encounter, preparing you for what lies ahead.

Summer icon
80°F / 60°F

Massachusetts

87°F / 67°F

Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Massachusetts

48°F / 29°F

Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47.7"

Massachusetts

44"

Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
43.8"

Massachusetts

14"

Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Massachusetts and Virginia enjoy plentiful sunshine with only a slight difference in annual sunshine days, Virginia typically experiences warmer summers and milder winters. This warmer climate extends into winter months, where snow is significantly less common in Virginia than in Massachusetts, changing landscape and outdoor activities. The slightly higher annual humidity and UV index in Virginia might require adjustments in daily skincare and hydration habits. Notably, both states share common problematic allergens, but individuals moving to Virginia should be aware of the increased risk of hurricanes and prepare accordingly.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison focuses on key monetary aspects to consider if relocating from Massachusetts to Virginia. It's designed to give you an insight into how your financial day-to-day might change with such a move.

Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia, you'll find a notable difference in the cost of living; Virginia is more affordable by comparison. Despite the slightly higher state income tax in Virginia, the overall economic burden, including property and sales tax, is less. This difference can offer a more financially sustainable lifestyle without necessarily having to compromise on income significantly. Moreover, Virginia's lower homelessness and poverty rates reflect the state's healthier economic dynamics, potentially offering a more stable environment for residents.

Political & Religious Comparison between Massachusetts and Virginia

This comparison of the politics between Massachusetts & Virginia offers a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape, providing insights into the communities you're moving between. Understanding these aspects can help you navigate your new surroundings more effectively.

MassachusettsVirginia

Political Make-up

Largely DemocraticSwing State

Local Politics

Liberal policies in urban areasMixed, varies by county

Religion

Catholic majorityProtestant majority

Massachusetts and Virginia showcase distinct political and religious characteristics, reflective of their unique cultural identities. In Massachusetts, a strong Democratic leaning is prevalent, particularly in urban centers such as Boston, where liberal policies are widely supported. The state has a significant Catholic population, influenced by historical immigration patterns. Virginia, by contrast, is known for its political variability. Being a swing state, it reflects a broader spectrum of political affiliations, with local politics varying significantly from the liberal Northern Virginia to the more conservative rural areas. The majority of Virginians identify as Protestant, a reflection of the state's deep historical roots in American colonial history. Recognizing these differences can provide a smoother transition and facilitate a deeper understanding of your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia

When considering a move from Massachusetts to Virginia, it's crucial to compare the educational landscapes of both states. This comparison will help you better understand the differences between school options in Massachusetts and Virginia . Understanding these differences can greatly influence your decision-making process, ensuring a smoother transition for your family.

MassachusettsVirginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Harvard University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Boston College
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
College of William and Mary

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Joseph E. Fiske Elementary (Wellesley)
Vinson-Owen Elementary (Winchester)
Schofield Elementary School (Wellesley)
Arlington Science Focus School (Arlington)
Lucketts Elementary (Leesburg)
Stenwood Elementary (Vienna)

Top 3 Middle Schools

William Diamond Middle School (Lexington)
Blanchard Middle School (Westford)
Wayland Middle School (Wayland)
Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Cooper Middle School (McLean)
Henley Middle School (Charlottesville)

Top 3 High Schools

Massachusetts Academy of Math & Science (Worcester)
Lexington High (Lexington)
Boston Latin School (Boston)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)

Top 3 private high schools

Phillips Academy (Andover)
Groton School (Groton)
Milton Academy (Milton)
The Madeira School (McLean)
St. Christopher’s School (Richmond)
Episcopal High School (Alexandria)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Boston University Academy (Boston)
The Winsor School (Boston)
The Cambridge School of Weston (Weston)
Flint Hill School (Oakton)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Norfolk Academy (Norfolk)

Top 3 School Districts

Wellesley Public Schools
Lexington Public Schools
Newton Public Schools
Arlington Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools

In Massachusetts, education is renowned for its high standards and prestigious institutions, particularly in higher education with schools like Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) leading the charge. The state prides itself on having some of the top elementary and secondary schools in the country, such as Joseph E. Fiske Elementary and Lexington High, which consistently deliver exemplary educational outcomes. On the other hand, Virginia boasts a more diversified educational landscape with a significant focus on STEM, as evident from the nationally recognized Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Virginia also offers a robust selection of highly regarded private institutions and unique public school districts like Fairfax County Public Schools that are frequently celebrated for their innovation and academic excellence. This juxtaposition underscores the diverse educational strengths and opportunities each state brings to the table, helping you make a more informed decision based on your family's priorities.

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