Best Memphis to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Memphis to Washington Movers

Moving from the rhythmic soul of Memphis, TN, to the bustling political heart of Washington DC, represents an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind the comforting BBQ scents and blues bars of "Bluff City" for the historic monuments and political hustle of "The Capital City" marks a significant transition that's both exciting and monumental. To ensure this long-distance move goes smoothly, it’s crucial to secure trusted and reliable professional movers, which is where our expertise at Great Guys Moving shines, guiding you in navigating this considerable change with ease.

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Best Memphis to Washington Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Bookstore Movers9.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Mic's Moving9.59NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Garrett's Hauling8.79A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.8.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC8.56NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Memphis guide.

5 Best Memphis 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
Garrett's Hauling Logo
Superb8.79/10
based on 324+ data points

About Garrett's Hauling

Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Ger...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/19/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3819914 / 1381892

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. Logo
Fabulous8.60/10
based on 1,059+ data points

About Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.

Country Club Moving and Packing Inc. is a family-owned moving company that has been providing high-quality, low-price moves since 1994 in Me...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and Long Distance Moving
  • Whole House Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1552549 / 576653

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC Logo
Fabulous8.56/10
based on 130+ data points

About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in providing...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3797931 / 1365852

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
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.

Memphis vs. Washington Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new locale. To ease this transition, we'll compare Memphis, TN & Washington DC, DC local neighborhoods , highlighting similarities between each one. This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with your new city by using places you might already know and love as a baseline.

MemphisWashingtonHow They're Similar
MidtownDupont CircleVibrant nightlife and cultural scene
East MemphisCleveland ParkAffluent, with a mix of historic homes
Cooper-YoungAdams MorganEclectic and bohemian vibes
GermantownGeorgetownUpscale shopping and dining options
ColliervilleCapitol HillHistoric charm with a family-friendly atmosphere
DowntownPenn QuarterEntertainment hub with major attractions
Harbor TownSouthwest WaterfrontWaterfront living, dining, and activities
CordovaNoMaRapidly developing with new businesses and housing
South MainNavy YardTrendy area with a mix of old and new developments
BartlettBrooklandSuburban feel within the city, family-oriented

In comparing neighborhoods between Memphis, TN, and Washington DC, DC, you'll find that each city has unique enclaves that mirror the charm and lifestyle of the other. For instance, if you're drawn to the vibrant arts scene and historical architecture of Midtown Memphis, Dupont Circle in Washington DC offers a similar cultural tapestry, complete with diverse restaurants like Doi Moi and landmark sites such as the Phillips Collection. Likewise, the serene, upscale landscape of East Memphis has its counterpart in Cleveland Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the National Zoo or dining at acclaimed eateries like Iron Age. Whether you're moving for work, school, or a change of pace, familiarizing yourself with these parallels can help soften the transition and make the nation's capital feel like home.

Things To Do background image

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 Memphis to Washington

Making a move from Memphis, TN to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to weigh both sides of the decision. This comparison will serve as an honest reflection, outlining Memphis's downsides and Washington DC's upsides, providing a clear perspective on what awaits in the new city. Let's dive into the pros and cons to ensure you make an informed choice about this significant change.

CONs
PROs
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less public transit
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lower walkability
  • Smaller cultural scene
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Lower crime rates
  • Extensive public transit
  • More job opportunities
  • Higher walkability
  • Larger cultural scene
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less affordable housing
  • Colder winters
  • Less music-focused
  • Smaller outdoor spaces
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • More affordable housing
  • Warmer climate
  • Strong music culture
  • Spacious outdoor areas

Relocating from Memphis, TN, to Washington DC, DC, brings a notable shift in lifestyle, particularly in terms of employment and cultural experience. Washington DC's job market, rich in government and private sector opportunities, contrasts sharply with Memphis's more limited offerings. The vibrant cultural scene in DC — from national monuments and museums like the Smithsonian to bustling urban parks such as Rock Creek Park — offers endless exploration compared to the more concentrated cultural spots in Memphis, like Beale Street and its surrounding areas. Moreover, DC's extensive public transit system, including the Metro, makes commuting and visiting landmarks like the National Mall far more accessible compared to Memphis's less comprehensive transit options. Understandably, these advantages come with the trade-offs of a higher cost of living and less affordable housing in Washington DC, which can be a significant adjustment from the more economically lenient Memphis.

Memphis vs. Washington Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & Washington DC, essential for understanding the vibrant food scenes of both cities. Food is a vital component of local culture and settling into a new area means exploring its culinary landscape. This comparison aims to provide you with insights into what you can expect on your dining plate after your move.

MemphisWashington
Most iconic local food itemBarbecue RibsHalf Smoke
Most popular meat dishPulled Pork SandwichJumbo Slice Pizza
Most popular street food itemBBQ NachosFood Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ TofuVegan Soul Food
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Central BBQ
  • Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
  • The Rendezvous
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose's Luxury
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Memphis is renowned for its BBQ ribs and pulled pork, offering a paradise for meat lovers with places like Central BBQ leading the scene, Washington DC presents a more varied culinary landscape. Here, you can explore the renowned Ben's Chili Bowl for a taste of the famed half-smoke, or dive into the city's diverse food truck offerings, notably around neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and H Street NE. DC's foodie scene also takes a healthier turn, with a significant lean towards vegan and vegetarian options, such as vegan soul food, reflecting its higher fitness and health conscientiousness score.

Memphis vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding the right spots to eat can transform a new city into home. Our comparison of Memphis restaurants to their Washington DC counterparts will guide you in discovering your next favorite dining destinations, leveraging familiar favorites from your Memphis experience.

MemphisWashingtonWhat You'll Love
Gus's World Famous Fried ChickenRoaming RoosterKnown for its crispy, flavorful fried chicken
A&R Bar-B-QueDCity SmokehouseOffers a similar down-home vibe and smoked meats
Flight Restaurant & Wine BarBarcelona Wine BarBoth have an extensive wine selection and tapas-style dining
The Beauty Shop RestaurantLe DiplomateQuirky, chic atmosphere with a strong brunch game
Elwood's ShackCall Your MotherA bagel shop with a fun and unique take on casual eats
Andrew Michael Italian KitchenRed HenItalian-inspired dishes with a local, seasonal twist
Central BBQHill Country Barbecue MarketAuthentic BBQ experience with a focus on meat quality
RendezvousFederalist PigHighly rated for its unique approach to BBQ and atmosphere
Hog & Hominy2 AmysBoth recognized for creative pizzas and southern hospitality
Bryant's BreakfastFounding FarmersA farm-to-table concept with a strong breakfast and brunch menu

Discovering a city's culinary scene is part of the adventure of moving and, thankfully, Washington DC's vibrant restaurant offerings provide ample opportunities for exploration. For example, Roaming Rooster in DC captures the soulful essence of Memphis through its crispy fried chicken, similar to what one might enjoy at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken. Fans of Memphis' BBQ scene will appreciate DCity Smokehouse for its dedication to smoked meats and cozy atmosphere that echoes the Memphis experience at A&R Bar-B-Que. Over at Barcelona Wine Bar, diners can find a sophisticated yet laid-back wine and dining experience reminiscent of Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar. These transitions from Memphis eateries to their DC equivalents ensure you won't have to compromise on taste or dining preferences in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Memphis vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current and future cities is crucial. Understanding how Memphis, TN and Washington DC, DC stack up in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can set the right expectations and guide your decisions. This comparison aims to shine a light on these essential aspects.

ComparisonMemphisWashington
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchVictorian, Federal
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, proximity to schoolsProximity to public transportation, historic landmarks

Memphis and Washington DC offer distinct living experiences, influenced significantly by their housing market and urban lifestyle. In Memphis, the allure comes from its more affordable housing and spacious living, often with a focus on large yards and proximity to schools, aligning well with families seeking a suburban feel. Contrastingly, Washington DC's real estate market emphasizes proximity to public transportation and historic landmarks, catering to those who prioritize an urban lifestyle. The higher cost of living in DC is matched by its vibrant city life, higher walkability, and bikeability scores, offering a different set of lifestyle benefits than Memphis. Whether it’s the colonial charm of Memphis or the bustling, historical streets of Washington DC, your preference will deeply influence your choice of locale.

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.

Memphis vs. Washington Weather Considerations

When preparing to move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences between Memphis, TN, and Washington DC, DC is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in temperature, precipitation, and other weather-related factors you're likely to experience.

Summer icon
90°F / 71°F

Memphis, TN

87°F / 68°F

Washington, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 32°F

Memphis, TN

44°F / 29°F

Washington, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
54

Memphis, TN

40

Washington, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
3

Memphis, TN

15

Washington, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMemphisWashington
Air QualityFairModerate
Natural DisastersThunderstorms, TornadoesThunderstorms, Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Memphis to Washington DC, you'll notice certain climatic changes, most notably in annual snowfall and winter temperatures. Washington DC experiences a greater annual snowfall, which highlights the need for winter gear, something that might not be as essential in Memphis. Additionally, the number of sunshine days drops slightly, potentially impacting outdoor activities. However, both cities have a similar burden of top seasonal allergies, primarily due to pollen and mold, necessitating continued allergy management strategies post-relocation.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is key. This comparison aims to highlight how living costs, taxes, and economic conditions between Memphis, TN, and Washington DC, DC might affect your budget and lifestyle. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for your new life in a different city.

ComparisonMemphisWashington
Avg. Household Income$44,317$90,088
Cost of Living Index88.2140.1
State Income Tax0 (Tennessee has no state income tax)4.00% - 8.95%
Avg. Property Tax1.06%0.56%
Avg. Sales Tax9.3%6%
Top 3 IndustriesTransportation, Manufacturing, Health CareGovernment, Professional Services, Education
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessVisibleManaged

Relocating from Memphis, TN to Washington DC, DC, you'll encounter a dramatic shift in economic landscape, particularly in household income and cost of living. The average household income in DC nearly doubles that of Memphis, which might seem promising, but it's coupled with a significantly higher cost of living. While Tennessee's lack of state income tax offers some relief, DC's tiered tax system based on income can take a sizable bite from your paycheck, depending on your earnings. Despite higher taxes and living costs in DC, its robust economy offers lucrative job opportunities, particularly in government and professional services, contrasting with Memphis’s focus on transportation and manufacturing. This economic shift underscores the importance of considering your career path and lifestyle expectations when making your move.

Memphis vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison

This brief snapshot offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Memphis & Washington DC , aiming to provide you with a clearer understanding of the community you're considering moving into.

MemphisWashington
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsCity GovernmentCity Government
ReligionPrimarily ChristianDiverse, with a significant Christian population

In examining the dynamics between Memphis and Washington DC, the stark difference in political leaning stands out. While both cities lean Democratic, Washington DC exhibits a stronger inclination towards this end. This reflects in local politics where the governance frameworks - accessible via their respective Memphis and Washington DC websites - play crucial roles in shaping the social and legal fabric of each city. Religion, while diverse in both cities, holds a significant place in the community, with Christianity playing a predominant role. Understanding these aspects can provide a layer of comfort and preparedness for your transition.

Memphis vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Memphis, TN to Washington DC, DC comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes and understanding traffic patterns. To help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, as well as the transportation options between Memphis & Washington DC, a comparison has been created. This guide will assist you in preparing for your move and adjusting to your new environment.

ComparisonMemphisWashington
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

While Memphis boasts a shorter average commute time than Washington DC, it falls short in terms of public transit options, scoring only a 3 out of 10. In Memphis, having a car is almost a necessity for getting around. Washington DC, on the other hand, offers a more robust public transportation system, making it easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The availability and efficiency of public transportation, such as the Washington Metro and various bus services, play a pivotal role in this difference. Additionally, Washington DC experiences higher traffic congestion, which can affect commute times but is mitigated by the alternative options available. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the lifestyle changes that come with moving from Memphis to Washington DC.

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