Moving from Boston to Seattle?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Boston to Seattle Movers

Moving from Boston, MA to Seattle, WA marks the start of a thrilling chapter in your life, teeming with new possibilities and adventures. You're transitioning from the historic charm and vibrant sports culture of "Beantown" to the tech-heavy, coffee-loving atmosphere of the "Emerald City," each city offering its own unique flavor and lifestyle. Understanding the pivotal role of having trusted and reliable professional movers for such a long-distance move, we ensure you're matched with the best, leveraging our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving to find top-tier movers who make your transition seamless and worry-free.

Massachusetts iconArrow iconWashington icon
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Boston to Seattle 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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

top 3 boston 2024 stairhopper movers image
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 9/11/2024)

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
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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

top 10 boston 2024 intelligent labor moving image
top 10 ranked movers in boston 2023 intelligent labor moving image
top 10 ranked movers in boston 2022 intelligent labor moving image
#4
People Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,624+ data points

Bothell, WA
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2895681 Verify

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

top 10 tacoma 2024 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in bellevue 2022 people movers image
#5
All Service Moving Logo
Superb

based on 5,172+ data points

Seattle, WA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/14/2023)

USDOT: 2083124 Verify

About All Service Moving

All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>

top 10 lacey 2024 all service moving image
top 10 ranked movers in seattle 2023 all service moving image
top 3 ranked movers in seattle 2022 all service moving image

Relocating from Boston to Seattle Neighborhood Guide

Considering a move can feel overwhelming, especially when you're navigating the vast landscapes of urban living. This guide is designed to help ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Seattle, WA . By identifying the closest counterparts in Seattle to your favorite Boston neighborhoods, we aim to make the unfamiliar, familiar.

BostonSeattle
Beacon HillQueen Anne

Historic homes, upscale

Back BayCapitol Hill

Trendy, full of shops

North EndBallard

Strong sense of community, foodie haven

South EndFremont

Artsy, diverse nightlife

Jamaica PlainGreenwood

Family-friendly, somewhat bohemian

South BostonWest Seattle

Waterfront views, tight-knit

Fenway-KenmoreUniversity District

Youthful, vibrant academic life

CharlestownMagnolia

Quiet, scenic, with historic elements

Seaport DistrictSouth Lake Union

Modern, tech hub

DorchesterColumbia City

Diverse, community-centric

For those charmed by Beacon Hill's historic cobblestone streets and upscale atmosphere, Queen Anne's grandiose homes and scenic views over Seattle will feel like a transcontinental echo of home. On the flip side, if the trendy and bustling nature of Back Bay appealed to you, with spots like Newbury Street, you'll find Seattle's Capitol Hill—known for its vibrant nightlife and the iconic Pike Place Market—a fitting counterpart. South Boston's strong sense of community and seaside allure is mirrored in West Seattle, where Alki Beach provides a similarly sociable and scenic waterfront lifestyle. And for the academia and sports enthusiasts drawn to Fenway-Kenmore by the likes of Fenway Park, the University District's youthful vibrancy alongside the University of Washington will offer a familiar blend of education and excitement.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Seattle

Moving from one city to another is a decision that comes with both excitement and apprehension. Through the forthcoming comparison, we aim to reflect realistically on the benefits and drawbacks of relocating from Boston, MA to Seattle, WA , providing a balanced view that will help in making an informed decision. Here, we'll delve into the contrasts between both cities, highlighting aspects related to lifestyle, climate, and culture.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher living costs
  • Snowy winters
  • Historic sports culture
  • Dense city layout
  • Less tech job opps
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder winters
  • Emerging sports scene
  • More green spaces
  • Booming tech industry
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Younger city
  • Smaller cultural venues
  • More niche food scene
  • Relies more on cars
  • Fewer universities
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Wealth of history
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Extensive public transit
  • Collegiate atmosphere

Comparing Boston and Seattle reveals significant variations in climate, culture, and job opportunities. For instance, moving to Seattle brings you closer to the burgeoning tech scene, with giants like Microsoft and Amazon offering vast opportunities. Though you might miss Boston's rich historical tapestry and the vibrant collegiate vibe provided by institutions like Harvard and MIT, Seattle counters with its laid-back lifestyle, abundant green spaces like Discovery Park, and innovative dining options in areas such as Capitol Hill. The transition from Boston's dense and historic ambiance to Seattle's tech-savvy and nature-oriented environment is a journey of discovery, offering fresh experiences in both professional growth and personal fulfillment.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Boston to Seattle

Food plays a pivotal role in defining the local culture and living experience of an area. In this guide, we're going to delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Seattle, providing you with insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home. This will enable you to better assimiliate and indulge in the rich food scenes of these vibrant cities.

BostonSeattle

Most iconic local food item

Clam ChowderSalmon

Most popular meat dish

Lobster RollTeriyaki

Most popular street food item

CannoliHot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladTempeh Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Legal Sea Foods
    2. Union Oyster House
    3. Mike's Pastry
    1. Canlis
    2. Pike Place Chowder
    3. Salumi

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

79

When it comes to the iconic local food items, Boston’s Clam Chowder and Seattle’s Salmon encapsulate the essence of each city's culinary culture. If you're moving to Seattle, the Pike Place Market is a hub for food lovers, offering a taste of the city's most renowned dishes, like the famed Pike Place Chowder. The city's health-conscious vibe is reflected in its high rating for fitness and vegan options, ensuring that you’ll find an abundance of healthy dining choices. Seattle's food truck scene is notably vibrant, particularly in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and South Lake Union, offering a variety of cuisines that cater to every palate.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Boston to Seattle

When relocating, finding those special dining spots in your new city can truly make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Boston to Seattle is designed to help transplants discover their next go-to eateries by matching them with their favorite Boston staples. Let this guide be your culinary compass as you embark on your new adventure.

OleanaCanlis

Offers a fine dining experience with inventive dishes similar to Oleana’s upscale, Mediterranean-influenced cuisine.

Neptune OysterThe Walrus and the Carpenter

Both celebrate seafood with a focus on local and fresh offerings in a cozy yet sophisticated setting.

ToroBar Cotto

A haven for Spanish tapas lovers, offering a similar ambiance and extensive charcuterie options as Toro.

Mike’s PastryPiroshky Piroshky

While it specializes in Russian pastries, the dedication to quality and community mirrors that of Mike’s Pastry.

Giacomo's RistoranteIl Terrazzo Carmine

Offers a comparable classic Italian dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes and an inviting atmosphere.

Mamma MariaAltura

Presents a fine dining take on Italian cuisine that echoes Mamma Maria’s dedication to regional specialties and refined ambiance.

Santarpio's PizzaSerious Pie

Both pizzerias are revered for their distinctive and delicious takes on traditional and innovative pizzas.

UniMomiji

A spot for exquisite Japanese cuisine offering a similar emphasis on fresh sushi and inventive dishes as Uni.

Regina PizzeriaDelancey

Offers artisanal pizzas that rival Regina’s legendary status among pizza aficionados, baked in wood-fired ovens for that perfect crust.

Tatte Bakery & CaféBakery Nouveau

Like Tatte, it captures the heart of its neighborhood with exceptional baked goods, a warm atmosphere, and a loyal local following.

Discovering your new favorite dining spots is part of the adventure when moving to a new city. For example, Canlis and Oleana both provide a unique fine dining experience, albeit with different regional flairs—Mediterranean in Boston and Pacific Northwest in Seattle. The attention to fresh, local ingredients speaks to both restaurants' commitment to quality. If it's the cozy charm and the detailed attention to seafood that you loved about Neptune Oyster in Boston, you'll find a similar ethos at The Walrus and the Carpenter in Seattle. Both locales share a passion for showcasing the best of what the sea has to offer, making either an ideal choice for a memorable dining experience. For those who relish in the discovery of unique and delightful pastries, Piroshky Piroshky offers a variety of baked goods that promise to be as satisfying and community-centric as Mike’s Pastry. Through such parallel culinary gems, your transition from Boston to Seattle can include the exciting journey of discovering new favorites while reminiscing over cherished classics.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Boston to Seattle

When considering a move, comparing the real estate between your current and future home is crucial. Real estate is a key part of this transition, making it essential to understand how Boston and Seattle stack up in terms of housing , from costs to lifestyle. This comparison aims to highlight those differences and similarities.

Boston and Seattle both offer vibrant urban living with their unique charms and challenges. Boston, known for its historic Colonial and Victorian homes, scores higher in walkability, reflecting its dense, compact urban layout conducive to strolling through historic neighborhoods. Seattle, with its penchant for Modern and Craftsman architecture, prioritizes green living and bikeability, offering a slightly different urban experience. While the median home price in Seattle is notably higher, it offers lower median monthly rent and emphasizes outdoor activities and eco-friendly living. These differences reflect the distinct character and priorities of each city, highlighting the importance of aligning your lifestyle preferences with your new locale.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Boston to Seattle

When planning a move from Boston, MA to Seattle, WA, understanding the weather comparison between these two cities is crucial for adapting to your new home. From average temperatures and sunshine days to air quality and seasonal allergies, this guide helps you anticipate the changes and prepare accordingly. Boston and Seattle each offer distinct climatic experiences, shaping how you'll live and enjoy the outdoors in your new city.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

76°F / 58°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
48

Boston, MA

38

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48

Boston, MA

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities share similarities like their average annual UV index and primary seasonal allergies, there are significant differences in their weather patterns. For example, Boston experiences both hotter summers and colder winters compared to Seattle's milder climate. Additionally, Bostonians are no strangers to snow with an average annual snowfall of 48 inches, whereas Seattle sees much less, about 5 inches per year. Seattle, however, experiences more days of cloud cover which contributes to its fewer days of sunshine and slightly higher average humidity. Understanding these nuances will help you transition smoothly to your new environment in Seattle.

Ready to start your move?

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

When moving from Boston, MA to Seattle, WA, understanding the financial aspects is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge the monetary changes and prepare accordingly.

Both Boston and Seattle boast robust economies, but each city has its unique financial ecosystem. The average household income is higher in Seattle, which could be attractive, but the city also carries a higher cost of living index. Seattle's lack of state income tax is a significant advantage for many, yet its higher sales tax and cost of living balance this benefit. The dominance of technology and aerospace industries in Seattle compared to Boston's focus on education, health services, and finance indicates a differing job market landscape. Understanding these nuances is vital for making informed decisions about relocation.

Political & Religious Comparison between Boston, MA and Seattle, WA

Moving across the country can be a significant transition, not just in terms of geography but also in the community you'll join. This quick comparison provides a glance at the political and religious makeup between Boston & Seattle , offering insights into the culture shift you might experience.

BostonSeattle

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Focus on education and healthcareEmphasizes environmental policies and social justice

Religion

Primarily Christian, with significant Catholic communityMore secular, with a range of beliefs including Buddhism and non-religious groups

While both Boston and Seattle are known for their liberal political leanings, you'll find differences in their local priorities. Boston places a significant emphasis on healthcare and education, reflecting its rich history of academic excellence and medical innovation. On the other side, Seattle is renowned for its commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice, attributes that align with the city's progressive values. As for religious makeup, Boston's historical roots give it a more pronounced Christian and especially Catholic presence, whereas Seattle's religious landscape is more diverse, with a notable number of secular and non-traditional beliefs.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Boston to Seattle

Moving from Boston, MA to Seattle, WA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Seattle is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two vibrant cities.

BostonSeattle
3028

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

87

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planningYes, more easily in city centers

Can you get by without car?

Both Boston and Seattle offer a variety of transportation options, but the nuances in their commute times, traffic congestion, and public transit availability can affect your daily life significantly. In Boston, the extensive public transit network, known as the MBTA, including subways, buses, and ferries, makes it feasible to live without a car, though some planning is needed to navigate the system efficiently. Seattle, while slightly less congested in terms of traffic, also boasts a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, facilitating an easier car-free lifestyle, especially within the city center. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for a smoother transition and set realistic expectations for your new city life.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Boston to Seattle Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Boston, MA to Washington Moving Routes