Best Raleigh to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Washington Movers

Moving from the City of Oaks to the Nation's Capital marks an adventure brimming with opportunity and change. You're trading Raleigh's southern charm and burgeoning tech scene for Washington DC's rich history, political heartbeat, and vibrant urban life. To navigate this significant transition smoothly, it's crucial to entrust your move to reliable and expert movers, ensuring your journey to a new beginning is seamless and stress-free. Our team at Great Guys Moving utilizes an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best moving services suited for this long-distance move, guaranteeing peace of mind as you embrace your next chapter.

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Best Raleigh to Washington Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Bookstore Movers9.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Mic's Moving9.59NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.42NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.26NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to Washington Moving Companies

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

Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

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 >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional9.59/10
based on 4,108+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,596+ data points

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
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.

Raleigh vs. Washington Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially when adapting to a new city's dynamic neighborhoods. To ease this transition, let's explore a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Washington DC, DC . This guide will help you find a new community in Washington DC that resonates with the familiar charm of your favorite Raleigh neighborhood.

RaleighWashingtonHow They're Similar
Fayetteville StreetU Street CorridorVibrant nightlife and dining
Cameron VillageDupont CircleShopping and cafes
North HillsChevy ChaseUpscale shopping and suburban feel
Boylan HeightsCapitol HillHistoric homes and walkability
OakwoodGeorgetownHistoric charm and cobblestone streets
Glenwood SouthAdams MorganLively nightlife and diverse cuisine
Five PointsCleveland ParkFamily-friendly and green spaces
Warehouse DistrictNoMaTrendy eateries and modern apartments
Brier CreekNavy YardWaterfront dining and entertainment
MordecaiWoodley ParkQuiet, leafy streets and proximity to attractions

In exploring these neighborhoods further, if you're drawn to the historic and peaceful streets of Oakwood, you'll be enamored with Georgetown's enchanting ambiance. Georgetown is renowned for its historic federal-style architecture, bustling M Street for shopping, and the scenic Waterfront Park offering stunning views of the Potomac River. On the other hand, if the vibrant and eclectic nightlife of Glenwood South captures your heart, Adams Morgan will undoubtedly appeal to you with its rainbow of cuisine options available at establishments like Tryst and its energetic nightlife scene. Meanwhile, Cameron Village shoppers will find Dupont Circle's array of boutiques and cafes, including the iconic Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café, an irresistible blend of commerce and culture in a quaint urban setting.

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Things to Do in Washington

  • Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.
  • Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
  • Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
  • Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
  • Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
  • Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
  • Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Washington

Making the leap from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, DC warrants a genuine appraisal of what this big move entails. Delve into an honest reflection that casts light on both sides of the coin, allowing you to weigh the cons of Raleigh, NC against the perks of moving to Washington DC, DC —and vice versa. Discover the intricate balance of lifestyle adjustments and opportunities between these two influential cities.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Smaller art scene
  • Fewer public transit options
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Higher job opportunities
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Larger art scene
  • Extensive public transit
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less affordable housing
  • Busier lifestyle
  • Fewer green spaces
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • More affordable housing
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • More green spaces

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, DC brings about a significant transition, touching on employment, culture, and daily life. In Raleigh, you might be accustomed to the slower pace of life and enjoying the expansive natural environs of places like Pullen Park or the Raleigh Rose Garden. However, Washington DC boasts an immense array of job opportunities, particularly for those in political, educational, and tech fields. The cultural landscape in DC is vibrant, encompassing historic sites like the Lincoln Memorial, an eclectic dining scene with restaurants such as Zaytinya, and cultural institutions like the Smithsonian Museums. While the cost of living might be higher and the bustling city life more pronounced, the trade-offs include access to a world-class public transportation system, including the DC Metro, and an inclusive, diverse cultural environment unmatched in most cities.

Raleigh vs. Washington Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Washington DC is crucial for those moving and wanting to immerse in the local culture. Food is a vibrant part of any area's lifestyle, and by comparing these two, you'll be better positioned to enjoy the culinary scene of your new home.

RaleighWashington
Most iconic local food itemPulled pork BBQHalf-smoke
Most popular meat dishEastern NC barbecueChicken and waffles
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan barbecueVeggie burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Poole's Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Angus Barn
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • Zaytinya
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Raleigh to Washington DC, you'll transition from a food scene known for its down-home Southern BBQ to a diverse and international culinary landscape. In DC, neighborhoods like Shaw and Capitol Hill offer a vibrant street food scene with abundant food trucks serving everything from Korean BBQ to Ethiopian cuisine. Iconic restaurants such as Ben's Chili Bowl in U Street Corridor highlight the city's rich history and diverse palate, serving up unique dishes like the famous half-smoke. The foodie scene in DC is slightly more health-conscious and vegan-friendly, reflecting the city's eclectic and health-aware residents. Discovering the numerous food trucks and veggie burgers scattered across the city will be a delightful exploration for newcomers.

Raleigh vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the significance of cuisine in making a new city feel like home is crucial. This restaurant comparison between Raleigh and Washington DC is designed to help you in finding your next favorite dining spots by drawing on familiar favorites from your current city. Whether you're in search of high-end dining, casual eats, or something uniquely iconic, this guide aims to ease your transition.

RaleighWashingtonWhat You'll Love
Brewery BhavanaRasikaKnown for inventive Indian cuisine, akin to Brewery Bhavana’s innovative approach.
Poole's DinerThe DabneyFocuses on mid-Atlantic cuisine with a similar devotion to local ingredients and flavors.
GarlandHimalayan HeritageOffers a unique blend of flavors with attention to the Asia-inspired dishes similar to Garland.
Bida MandaThip KhaoLaotian cuisine that provides a comparable exotic dining experience to Bida Manda’s Laotian offerings.
Beasley’s Chicken + HoneyRoaming RoosterWell-loved for its fried chicken, reminiscent of Beasley’s southern comfort food.
Second Empire RestaurantPlumeElegant dining with a focus on inventive dishes and a similarly upscale atmosphere.
Angus BarnThe Prime RibClassic, high-end steakhouse experience paralleling the esteem of Angus Barn.
Clyde Cooper's BBQHill Country Barbecue MarketCaptures the essence of traditional barbecue, offering a taste of home for Clyde Cooper's fans.
La Farm BakeryBread FurstKnown for its artisan bread and pastries, mirroring La Farm Bakery's quality and ambience.
Morgan Street Food HallUnion MarketA food hall that provides a variety of culinary experiences, akin to the diverse offerings at Morgan Street.

For those who treasure a unique dining experience, Raleigh's Brewery Bhavana and Washington DC's Rasika both offer innovative and immersive culinary journeys - the former with a blend of brewery, library, and flower shop all in one, and Rasika with its modern twist on traditional Indian dishes. Similarly, lovers of comfort food will appreciate the parallel between Beasley’s Chicken + Honey and Roaming Rooster, where the succulent, crispy fried chicken serves as a comforting reminder of home. For the barbecue aficionados, the transition from Clyde Cooper's BBQ to Hill Country Barbecue Market will be seamless, offering them the smoky, tangy flavors they adore. Each of these Washington DC restaurants encapsulates the essence of their Raleigh counterparts, allowing for an easier adjustment to a new city without sacrificing the flavors you've come to love.

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Ready to start your move?

Raleigh vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering relocating, comparing the real estate landscapes of Raleigh, NC, and Washington DC, DC, is crucial. Understanding differences in housing costs, style, and livability can significantly impact your moving decision. Let’s dive into how these two cities compare in critical housing aspects.

ComparisonRaleighWashington
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanFederal, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, community amenitiesProximity to metro, historic charm

When dissecting the real estate nuances between Raleigh and Washington DC, notable contrasts emerge, particularly regarding living costs and urban lifestyle. Homes in Raleigh are more affordably priced, and properties often boast spacious yards and access to community amenities, ideal for those valuing space and a slightly slower pace of living. On the other hand, Washington DC's real estate market highlights its rich historic charm and superior walkability, with a significant emphasis on proximity to metro stations—an advantage for those craving a vibrant urban lifestyle without the need for personal vehicles. These distinctions underpin the importance of aligning your housing preferences with the city's character that best fits your lifestyle needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington, DC

1. Adams Morgan: Known for its vibrant street life and diverse culture, Adams Morgan is extremely pet-friendly, offering numerous pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks like the Walter Pierce Park where your furry friends can play.

2. Capitol Hill: Aside from the iconic U.S. Capitol and historic ambiance, Capitol Hill features spacious parks such as the Congressional Cemetery, which doubles as a dog park, providing a unique space for you and your pet to explore.

3. Dupont Circle: This neighborhood boasts a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, with several pet-friendly parks like the Dupont Circle Fountain, and businesses that cater to your pet's needs, making it an ideal place for pet lovers.

Raleigh vs. Washington Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, it is crucial to compare the weather conditions you're accustomed to. Understanding how the weather varies between Raleigh and Washington DC is essential for a smooth transition to your new environment.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

89/71

Washington, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/31

Raleigh, NC

47/30

Washington, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

40

Washington, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

15

Washington, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRaleighWashington
Air QualityModerateModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesHurricanes, Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In addition to similar summer temperatures, both cities experience moderate air quality, though Washington DC tends to have slightly more winter chill and snowfall, making winter gear a good investment. On the flip side, Raleigh enjoys more sunny days a year, which could affect your outdoor activities and mood. It's also worth noting the slight difference in average annual humidity and the subsequent impact on comfort levels. Both cities face specific natural disasters, with Raleigh being more prone to hurricanes and tornadoes, and Washington DC facing hurricanes and winter storms, hence, preparing for these events differs.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Washington

When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you'll be stepping into. Understanding the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between Raleigh and Washington DC can help you prepare for the transition. This comparison aims to outline these critical financial aspects.

ComparisonRaleighWashington
Avg. Household Income$74,612$90,088
Cost of Living Index98.2140.1
State Income Tax5.258.5
Avg. Property Tax0.840.56
Avg. Sales Tax7.256
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareGovernment, Professional Services, Education
Affluencemoderatehigh
Povertymoderatelow
Homelessnesslowmoderate

Moving from Raleigh to Washington DC, you'll likely notice a marked difference in the cost of living and average household income. Washington DC's higher cost of living index reflects its status as a hub of government and international diplomacy, contributing to its higher average household income. However, this is balanced by higher state income taxes and a vibrant job market, predominantly in government and professional services. Considering these factors is essential for a smooth financial transition, making it vital to weigh the benefits of higher income against the costs in Washington DC.

Raleigh vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison

This is a comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Washington DC, offering a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities.

RaleighWashington
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate with a focus on growth and developmentLiberal with a strong emphasis on federal policy and social issues
ReligionVaried, with a significant presence of Christians and growing diversityDiverse religious landscape with a significant number of non-religious residents

When considering the move from Raleigh to Washington DC, you'll find a noticeable shift in the political environment. Raleigh, while leaning Democratic, has a more moderate stance on local politics, focusing on growth and development. Washington DC, on the other hand, operates under a strongly Democratic lens, often influenced by its proximity to federal politics, with a significant emphasis on social issues. The religious landscapes in both cities are diverse, yet in Washington DC, you might notice a higher proportion of non-religious residents. This diversity contributes to the rich cultural fabric of both cities, shaping community life and local policies.

Raleigh vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Washington, DC? It’s crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences might change. This comparison between Raleigh & Washington DC will help you better understand what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in these cities.

ComparisonRaleighWashington
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2534
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingYes

While Raleigh boasts somewhat lighter traffic and shorter average commute times than Washington DC, its public transit system is less robust, making it challenging to get by without a car. In contrast, Washington DC offers extensive public transit options, including the Metro, buses, and bike-share programs, making it feasible and even convenient to live car-free. The higher traffic congestion in DC reflects its denser urban environment, but the effective public transit system significantly offsets this disadvantage. Understanding these key differences can help you smoothly transition to your new city.

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