Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Pittsburgh to Washington Movers

Moving from the Steel City to the Nation's Capital marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, a transition filled with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind Pittsburgh's iconic bridges and hearty pierogies for the historical landmarks and political heartbeat of Washington, DC is no small change. This is why it’s crucial to entrust your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring that this significant life transition is smooth and stress-free. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers, using an unbiased algorithm to guarantee you’re supported by the finest in the field for your long journey from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Pittsburgh guide.

5 Best Pittsburgh to Washington Movers

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

#1
Pittsburgh Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,264+ data points

Location DotPittsburgh, PA
GearLocal move in Pittsburgh, Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh, Residential move See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3901080 Verify

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in pittsburgh 2022 pittsburgh moving image
#2
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 6,631+ data points

Location DotHyattsville, MD
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2005212 Verify

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 >>

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#3
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,108+ data points

Location DotWashington DC, DC
GearLocal Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2474176 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in gaithersburg 2023 mics moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington dc 2022 mics moving image
#4
Meta Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 336+ data points

Location DotPittsburgh, PA
GearFull-service local Pittsburgh moves, Long distance residential and commercial moves, Loading or unloading your truck or pod See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3295834 Verify

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>

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#5
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb

based on 2,807+ data points

Location DotPittsburgh, PA
GearLocal Moving, Junk Removal, Storage See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1321899 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is one of the fastest-growin...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in pittsburgh 2023 two men and a truck image
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Relocating from Pittsburgh to Washington Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to compare the local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & Washington DC, DC, providing a baseline for those familiar with Pittsburgh to discover their new favorite spots in Washington DC.

PittsburghWashington
ShadysideDupont Circle

Vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options

Squirrel HillCleveland Park

Family-friendly with a mix of dining and shopping

LawrencevilleShaw

Artsy with a young, hip vibe

East LibertyNoMa

Rapidly developing, with modern amenities and tech hubs

South SideCapitol Hill

Historic with a busy nightlife scene

North ShoreNavy Yard

Waterfront views with sports and entertainment

BloomfieldAdams Morgan

Cultural hotspot with international cuisine

Mount WashingtonGeorgetown

Scenic views with upscale dining and shopping

OaklandFoggy Bottom

Educational hub with cultural institutions

Point BreezeWoodley Park

Quiet, green, and residential with access to parks

For those moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, finding a neighborhood that matches your lifestyle and preferences is crucial. If you're enamored with Shadyside’s bustling avenues like Walnut Street, you'll find Dupont Circle's vibrant community and plethora of dining options like Doi Moi a welcome comparison. Squirrel Hill’s family-oriented vibe and spots like Schenley Park translate well to Cleveland Park’s quaint streets and proximity to the National Zoo. For the art lovers and night owls leaving Lawrenceville, Shaw’s thriving art scene and venues like DC9 Nightclub will feel familiar and exciting. This comparison aims to ease the transition by highlighting the unique, yet comparable characteristics these neighborhoods offer, from dining and shopping to parks and cultural activities.

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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.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington

Moving from one city to another is a decision weighted with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington DC, DC. By contrasting the pros and cons, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits in either city.

CONs
PROs
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less diversity
  • Lesser public transport
  • Smaller international community
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Higher job opportunities
  • Larger cultural scene
  • Greater diversity
  • Better public transport
  • Larger international community
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Expensive housing
  • Lesser community feel
  • More traffic
  • Urban environment
  • Higher cost of living
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Affordable housing
  • Community feel
  • Less traffic
  • Beautiful landscapes
  • Lower cost of living

While both cities offer unique opportunities and challenges, the contrast between them can impact lifestyle significantly. Pittsburgh, known for its affordable living and community vibes, presents a quieter life amidst beautiful landscapes. In contrast, Washington DC brims with cultural richness, diverse job opportunities, and an extensive public transport system, making it an attractive hub for professionals and international residents. However, this comes with a higher cost of living and more traffic. Specifically, areas like Capitol Hill and Georgetown offer a blend of historical sights and modern eateries, becoming focal points for both tourists and locals. Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC opens doors to vast cultural and professional landscapes but requires adjustment to a busier and more expensive lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Washington DC, showcasing the distinct flavors and dining experiences each city offers. By understanding the food scene, you can get a taste of what life is like in your new home.

PittsburghWashington

Most iconic local food item

Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Half-Smoke

Most popular meat dish

Pittsburgh Salad (with steak)
Mumbo Sauce Wings

Most popular street food item

Pierogi
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan Sandwich
Chickpea Curry

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pittsburgh’s Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
  • The Church Brew Works
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose's Luxury

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

6
9

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

7
9

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

6
8

When moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, you'll notice a shift in the culinary landscape. In Pittsburgh, the iconic Primanti Bros. Sandwich, a unique combination of meat, coleslaw, and fries packed between two slices of bread, epitomizes the city's hearty, comfort food-oriented cuisine. You can savor this local favorite at the original Primanti Bros. location in the city's Strip District. On the other hand, Washington DC is known for its diverse food scene, highlighted by the half-smoke, often enjoyed at the historic Ben’s Chili Bowl. The nation's capital boasts a more international palate, with a significant presence of food trucks and vegan options, particularly in neighborhoods like Shaw and Capitol Hill. The transition between these cities not only represents a move between two distinct cultural landscapes but also between two diverse culinary worlds, each with its own set of flavors, dining experiences, and iconic dishes worth exploring.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington

Finding a new home is about more than just relocating; it's about recreating the comforts and flavors that make a space truly yours. This restaurant comparison guide, spanning from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, aims to ease the transition by helping you discover new dining gems based on your old favorites. Whether you're searching for high-end dining, cozy casual spots, or unique culinary experiences, this guide is the first step toward making your new city feel like home.

AltiusPlume

Elegant, upscale dining with a comparable view and menu

Primanti Bros.Ben's Chili Bowl

Iconic, casual eating experience with local flavor

CureLe Diplomate

Authentic, rustic fare that echoes Cure's dedication to quality ingredients

Gaucho Parrilla ArgentinaRural Society

Similar Argentinian grill experience, known for its open flame cooking

Pamela's DinerFounding Farmers

Both offer hearty, American breakfast and brunch with a homestyle feel

Meat & PotatoesThe Hamilton

American fare with a creative twist, satisfying for meat lovers

TakoOyamel

Innovative and upscale, offering a contemporary take on traditional dishes

Dish Osteria and BarCento Osteria

A modern approach to Italian cuisine that maintains a cozy, intimate atmosphere

SpoonEquinox

Focuses on local, seasonal ingredients for a modern American dining experience

Moroccan RoomMourayo

Provides a similarly exotic dining experience with attention to authentic flavors

Each restaurant listed offers a slice of the culinary diversity that defines both Pittsburgh and Washington DC. For instance, Altius in Pittsburgh and Plume in Washington DC both offer upscale dining experiences with stunning views that make each meal memorable. Meanwhile, the transition from Primanti Bros.' hearty sandwiches to the iconic flavors of Ben's Chili Bowl ensures you won't miss out on the casual, emblematic tastes of your new city. For those craving authentic international flavors, the comparison between Dish Osteria and Bar and Cento Osteria is noteworthy. Both provide an intimate atmosphere ideal for enjoying meticulously crafted Italian dishes. This guide is not just about finding a place to eat; it's about discovering spaces that resonate with the warmth and familiarity of your favorite Pittsburgh spots, right in the heart of Washington DC.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight key differences in housing between Pittsburgh, PA, and Washington DC, DC, focusing on factors like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these distinctions can help make your transition smoother.

While both Pittsburgh and Washington DC offer unique living experiences, their real estate markets have notable differences. For example, the median home price in DC is significantly higher, reflecting its status as a densely populated urban center. However, this higher cost comes with benefits, such as increased walkability and access to public transportation, making it easier to navigate without a car. DC's architecture often features historic Federal-style homes, adding to the city's charm. In contrast, Pittsburgh presents a more affordable housing market, with a mix of Victorian and modern architecture. Despite a lower score in bikeability compared to DC, Pittsburgh has been making strides in improving its cycling infrastructure. Both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, but DC edges out with a higher score, likely due to its extensive cultural, dining, and entertainment options.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington

When planning a move, understanding the weather differences between Pittsburgh, PA and Washington DC, DC is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust to what awaits, whether it's more sunshine, less snow, or a change in seasonal allergies.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Pittsburgh, PA

87°F / 71°F

Washington, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 21°F

Pittsburgh, PA

44°F / 29°F

Washington, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Pittsburgh, PA

40

Washington, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
41

Pittsburgh, PA

15

Washington, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, you'll experience a notable change in weather patterns. Washington DC generally enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters, making it an appealing destination for those who prefer less harsh winter conditions. However, the trade-off includes hotter summers with higher humidity levels, which can affect your daily comfort and activities. The larger number of sunshine days in Washington DC also means a higher average UV index, prompting a greater need for sun protection. Additionally, while both cities face the challenge of top seasonal allergies, the specific allergens and their intensity can vary, influencing your outdoor experiences and possibly your health.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating, one critical aspect to consider is how the cost of living and overall financial landscape in Pittsburgh compares to Washington DC. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your budget and lifestyle.

Comparing finances between Pittsburgh and Washington DC highlights significant differences, particularly in the cost of living and average household income. While Pittsburgh offers a more moderate cost of living, Washington DC's higher average income reflects the city's higher living costs. The variance in state income tax and property tax rates between these two cities also has direct implications on disposable income and homeownership affordability. Furthermore, the dominant industries in each city guide the economic atmosphere, with Pittsburgh leaning towards healthcare and technology, and Washington DC being significantly influenced by government and professional services. These differences underscore the importance of financial planning when moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC.

Political & Religious Comparison between Pittsburgh, PA and Washington, DC

Considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA, to Washington DC? A key aspect of your transition will involve understanding the differences in the communities you're moving between. This quick guide offers an at-a-glance snapshot that compares the politics and religion between Pittsburgh & Washington DC, giving you insight into the local cultures and beliefs that define each city.

PittsburghWashington

Political Make-up

Largely DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate to progressiveProgressive

Religion

Christian majority with diverse religious communitiesChristian majority, significant Jewish, Muslim, and non-religious populations

When you move from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, you'll notice a significant shift in the political and religious landscape. Pittsburgh's politics lean Democratic with a moderate to progressive stance, reflecting the city's industrial roots and community values. Washington DC, being the nation's capital, embodies a more uniformly Democratic and progressive political environment. The religious makeup in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Washington DC boasts a more diverse religious scene, with significant Jewish, Muslim, and non-religious populations. This diversity stems from its role as an international and political hub, attracting a wide range of beliefs and practices. Understanding these differences will help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington

When considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington, DC, it's important to understand how daily commutes might change. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Washington DC aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.

PittsburghWashington
2630

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, challenging in suburbsHighly feasible, especially with the metro

Can you get by without car?

Moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, you will notice a slight increase in average commute times, attributed to higher traffic congestion in the nation's capital. However, this is somewhat mitigated by the superior public transit system in Washington DC, rated higher in availability than Pittsburgh's. Notably, the metro system in DC makes it highly feasible to get around without a car, a significant advantage over Pittsburgh where not having a car can pose challenges, especially in more suburban areas. As you prepare for your move, consider these factors, especially if you’re leaning towards a car-free lifestyle in your new city.

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