Best Columbus to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Arch City to the Nation's Capital is an adventure filled with new beginnings and opportunities. Trading the laid-back vibe and Midwestern charm of Columbus for Washington DC's historical landmarks, political pulse, and vibrant urban life marks a significant life change. To ensure this long-distance move is smooth and stress-free, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this transition and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Best Columbus to Washington Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Mic's Moving | 9.60 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.57 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Integrity Moving and Storage | 8.99 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Columbus guide.
5 Best Columbus to Washington Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
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
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
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
About Integrity Moving and Storage
With over three decades of expertise and a small-town customer-first approach, Integrity Moving and Storage offers exceptional service in Ce...Read More >>
Services
- Long-Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Piano Moving
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.
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.
Columbus vs. Washington Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to finding the perfect neighborhood to call home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of popular neighborhoods in Columbus, OH & Washington DC, DC This side-by-side analysis will help you quickly familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by relating them to areas you already know.
| Columbus | Washington | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Short North | Dupont Circle | Vibrant art scene & nightlife |
| German Village | Georgetown | Historic homes & cobblestone streets |
| Clintonville | Cleveland Park | Family-friendly with a suburban feel |
| Grandview Heights | Capitol Hill | Mix of residential & local businesses |
| Victorian Village | Logan Circle | Historic homes & community-focused |
| Brewery District | Navy Yard | Industrial turned modern living spaces |
| Italian Village | Shaw | Trendy eateries & historic ambiance |
| Olde Towne East | Capitol Hill | Rich history & diverse community |
| Franklinton | NoMa | Emerging art scene & industrial chic |
| University District | Foggy Bottom | College town with urban mix |
If you're drawn to the artistic energy and nightlife of Short North, Dupont Circle in DC will captivate you with its eclectic mix of galleries, bars, and eateries. Fans of German Village’s charming brick homes and quiet streets will find a similar vibe in the historic Georgetown, where cobblestone alleys and upscale shopping blend seamlessly. Clintonville families seeking a blend of community and nature in Washington DC should consider Cleveland Park, known for its friendly atmosphere and proximity to the National Zoo and Rock Creek Park. Meanwhile, if the industrial chic and vibrant community spaces in Franklinton appeal to you, NoMa in DC offers an exciting evolution from industrial roots to a buzzing district with art installations and trendy dining spots. Each neighborhood transition offers a unique opportunity to discover local favorites, from exploring the National Gallery of Art near Capitol Hill to waterfront relaxation at Yards Park in the Navy Yard.
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 Columbus to Washington
Moving cities is a major decision, one that comes with its fair share of trade-offs. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes when relocating from Columbus, OH to Washington DC, DC. Through comparative charts, we'll help you weigh the pros and cons, ensuring you're well-informed about the key differences.
Columbus, OH- Lower job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less diverse
- Lower cost of living
Washington, DC- Higher job opportunities
- Larger cultural scene
- More diverse
- Higher cost of living
Washington, DC- Noisier city life
- Higher cost of living
- Worse traffic
- More impersonal
Columbus, OH- Quieter city life
- Lower cost of living
- Easier traffic
- Close-knit community
Moving from Columbus to Washington DC presents unique opportunities and challenges. For instance, the vibrant cultural scene in DC means access to world-class museums like the Smithsonian, diverse restaurants in areas like Adams Morgan, and historic sights including the Lincoln Memorial. However, expect this move to come with a higher cost of living, particularly in popular areas like Georgetown or Capitol Hill. While Columbus offers a more relaxed pace of life with easier traffic and a close-knit community feel, such as found in German Village, DC counters with its energetic hustle, endless career opportunities, and a tapestry of culture that makes every neighborhood from Shaw to Dupont Circle uniquely attractive.
Columbus vs. Washington Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Columbus, Ohio, and Washington, DC is essential as food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and living experience. This comparison will help you understand the food scene in both cities, aiding in your relocation decision.
| Columbus | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye Candy | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Columbus-style Pizza | Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Korean BBQ Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Sandwiches | Impossible Burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Columbus, Ohio, the Buckeye Candy, mirroring the state tree, stands out as a sweet treat that's widely cherished, while Washington, DC shines with its iconic Half-Smoke available at stands like Ben's Chili Bowl. Columbus has a vibrant scene for innovative dishes such as Columbus-style pizza, a testament to the city's culinary diversity. Meanwhile, Washington, DC boasts a significant international influence reflected in its food scene, with Korean BBQ Tacos representing a favorite among street food aficionados. The capital city also edges out in terms of health and vegan options, likely due to its larger population and more diverse demographics. Whether craving the nostalgic charm of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Columbus or exploring the historic dining rooms of Old Ebbitt Grill in DC, both cities offer unique culinary experiences rooted in their respective cultures and communities.
Columbus vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison
Embarking on a move from Columbus, OH to Washington DC can be thrilling, yet finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering places that feel like home. Through this comparison of top Columbus restaurants to their Washington DC counterparts , we aim to ease your transition and guide you towards your next favorite dining spots.
| Columbus | Washington | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Thurman Cafe | The Hamilton | Iconic for its large portions and variety of options |
| Northstar Café | Busboys and Poets | Both focus on sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients with a community atmosphere |
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Dolcezza Gelato | Artisanal approach to frozen desserts with unique flavors |
| Lincoln Social Rooftop | Perry's | Comparable for its rooftop dining experience with city views |
| Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Bluejacket | Both are craft breweries with a strong local following for their innovative beers |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Roaming Rooster | Famous for their high-quality fried chicken and community engagement |
| Los Guachos Taqueria | Taqueria Habanero | Authentic Mexican street food with a cult following |
| Mitchell's Steakhouse | Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Both offer high-end steakhouse experiences |
| Rose & Remington | Sakura Ramen Bar | While different cuisines, both are loved for their cozy atmosphere and quality dishes |
Exploring new culinary experiences can make the transition to a new city exciting. Take Mitchell's Steakhouse in Columbus, for instance—its high-end dining and exquisite steaks echo the experience that awaits you at Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab in DC, promising an equally sumptuous meal. Fans of unique, artisanal ice cream flavors from Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams will find a kindred spirit in Dolcezza Gelato in Washington DC, where the art of crafting frozen treats with inventive flavors is equally celebrated. Moreover, if community and sustainability are close to your heart, Northstar Café's ethos finds a parallel in Busboys and Poets, ensuring that your dining choices continue to align with your values even after you move.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly shapes your relocation experience, making a thorough comparison between Columbus, OH , and Washington DC, DC , crucial. Understanding the housing landscape, including costs, styles, and livability, arms you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Columbus | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Colonial | Federal, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, modern kitchens | Location convenience, historic charm |
When you delve into the housing specifics of Columbus and Washington DC, you'll notice stark contrasts. Columbus, with its more affordable median home price and rent, offers a balanced urban lifestyle without the intensity of a dense cityscape. Its real estate listings frequently highlight modern kitchens and spacious backyards, reflecting the city's preference for contemporary, comfortable living spaces. On the other hand, Washington DC's architecture echoes the nation's history, with Federal and Victorian styles taking center stage. The higher walkability and bikeability scores align with the city's commitment to sustainable urban living. Notably, listings in Washington DC often boast about location convenience and historic charm, factors that contribute to its higher cost of living but also to its unique appeal.
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.
Columbus vs. Washington Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Columbus, OH to Washington DC, DC, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. The following charts are designed to help you grasp the weather differences between Columbus and Washington DC to prepare better for your relocation.
Columbus, OH
Washington, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Washington, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Washington, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Washington, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Severe Storms | Severe Storms, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing weather patterns, you'll find Washington DC enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters than Columbus, although summer temperatures can be higher and more humid. Notably, while both cities experience severe storms as their primary natural disasters, Washington DC is also vulnerable to hurricanes, a factor worth considering for emergency preparedness. Furthermore, if you suffer from allergies, Washington’s combination of pollen and mold may necessitate additional allergy management strategies. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt to your new environment more smoothly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Washington
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Columbus, OH and Washington DC, DC will highlight the cost of living and other money matters, providing you with a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Columbus | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 1.98 - 4.797 | N/A (Federal District) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 6.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Care, Finance | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Columbus to Washington DC, you'll find a substantial increase in the average household income, accompanied by a significantly higher cost of living index, indicating that living expenses in DC are much steeper. Though Columbus has a wider range of state income tax based on income levels, Washington DC does not impose state taxes but has federal taxes applicable. Interestingly, despite the high cost of living, Washington DC enjoys a lower property tax rate compared to Columbus, which may influence decisions on home ownership. Top industries vary greatly, with Columbus focusing on Education and Health Care, whereas Washington DC's economy is heavily influenced by government-related activities, reflecting its status as the nation's capital.
Columbus vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Columbus, OH to Washington DC, DC presents an interesting shift in the community landscape. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Columbus & Washington DC, helping you understand the local cultures you’re transitioning between.
| Columbus | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate policies with emphasis on growth and development | Progressive policies with focus on social issues and federal impact |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant | Diverse, but with a higher prevalence of non-religious individuals |
When you move from Columbus, OH to Washington DC, you’ll find yourself in a decidedly more politically active environment, reflecting the city's role as the nation's capital. The political discourse in Washington DC leans heavily towards progressive, with a significant focus on policies addressing social issues and national governance. In contrast, Columbus maintains a balanced pace with a blend of growth-oriented and moderate policies. On the religious front, both cities claim a diverse population. However, Washington DC stands out with a notable proportion of residents identifying as non-religious, aligning with the city’s broader spectrum of beliefs and ideologies. This shift offers a unique opportunity to engage with and understand a wide array of perspectives and communities.
Columbus vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Columbus, OH to Washington DC, DC, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect in terms of navigating these two cities.
| Comparison | Columbus | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While Columbus presents a relatively smoother commuting experience with lower average commute times and less traffic congestion, Washington DC offers significantly better public transportation options. This makes the nation's capital more navigable for those without a car. The higher score in public transit availability in Washington DC, including the vast network of Metro services, aligns with its higher traffic congestion score, indicating that despite more traffic, residents have efficient alternatives to driving. Understanding these differences is key to adjusting your commute accordingly.
Popular Columbus, OH to DC Moving Routes
