Moving from Nashville to Washington?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Nashville to Washington Movers

Moving from the harmonious melodies of Nashville, TN, to the bustling policy-making heart of Washington DC, encapsulates an exhilarating chapter in your life. You're trading the Country Music Capital for the nation's Capital, a city teeming with history and power. To ensure this significant transition is smooth, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we come in—offering you a carefully curated list of the best movers through an unbiased ranking algorithm.

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

5 Best Nashville to Washington Movers

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

#1
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 6,631+ data points

Hyattsville, MD
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT: 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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top 3 ranked movers in washington dc 2023 bookstore movers image
top ranked movers in washington dc 2022 bookstore movers image
#2
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,108+ data points

Washington DC, DC
Local Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 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
#3
Little Guys Movers Nashville Logo
Exceptional

based on 182+ data points

Nashville, TN
Long Distance Moving, Local Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 4004993 Verify

About Little Guys Movers Nashville

Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater ...Read More >>

top 10 nashville 2024 little guys movers nashville image
#4
6th Man Movers Logo
Superb

based on 5,314+ data points

Nashville, TN
Local Moving, Long Distance, Labor Only See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2315850 Verify

About 6th Man Movers

As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality re...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in nashville 2023 6th man movers image
top 3 ranked movers in nashville 2022 6th man movers image
#5
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo
Superb

based on 346+ data points

Nashville, TN
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Residential moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2472874 Verify

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and...Read More >>

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Relocating from Nashville to Washington Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding your new environment through familiar references makes the transition smoother. This guide offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between Nashville, TN & Washington DC, DC to help you find your new favorite area. By examining the similarities between neighborhoods in both cities, you'll get a sense of comfort and belonging in no time.

NashvilleWashington
East NashvilleCapitol Hill

Vibrant community, historic

Green HillsGeorgetown

Upscale shopping, historic homes

12 SouthDupont Circle

Trendy eateries, lively atmosphere

The GulchNoMa

Modern, artsy, with luxury apartments

GermantownShaw

Rich history, trendy restaurants

MidtownAdams Morgan

Nightlife, diverse dining options

Belle MeadeCleveland Park

Affluent, leafy, family-friendly

Sylvan ParkBloomingdale

Community-centric, historic homes

Hillsboro VillageWoodley Park

Cultural attractions, walkable

West EndKalorama

Elegant, exclusive, with historical significance

Exploring neighborhoods like Georgetown and Capitol Hill can feel like browsing through Green Hills and East Nashville, but with the distinctive backdrop of DC's historical and political landmarks. For instance, Georgetown offers the same upscale shopping experience that you're used to in Green Hills, with the added charm of cobblestone streets and historic waterfronts. Similarly, the vibrant community of Capitol Hill, with its historic buildings and local markets, echoes the lively, creative spirit found in East Nashville. Whether you're soaking up the trendy vibes and trendy eateries of Dupont Circle that mirror 12 South’s atmosphere or admiring the modern, artsy flair of NoMa reminiscent of The Gulch, each counterpart neighborhood in Washington, DC offers a seamless blend of familiar comforts with the unique character and history of the nation’s capital.

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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 Nashville to Washington

Moving from one city to another is always a significant decision, fraught with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Nashville, TN to Washington DC, DC , laying out what you might gain and what you might miss. These charts are designed to help you weigh Nashville, TN against Washington DC, DC in terms of lifestyle, amenities, and overall living experience.

CONs
PROs
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Less diverse
  • Lower cost of living
  • Slower pace
  • Limited public transport
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Higher job opportunities
  • More diverse
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Faster pace
  • Extensive public transport
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Less music variety
  • Smaller living spaces
  • More expensive
  • Higher housing costs
  • High-paced lifestyle
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Strong music scene
  • Spacious living
  • Friendly community
  • Affordable housing
  • Laidback vibe

When moving from Nashville to Washington DC, you're transitioning from a city known for its vibrant music scene, with iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium, to a city rich in national history and museums, such as the Smithsonian Museums. Washington DC's diverse culinary scene significantly surpasses that of Nashville, offering a vast array of international cuisines and dining experiences, from the bustling eateries at Union Market to the upscale restaurants in Georgetown. The increase in job opportunities in DC, particularly within the government and tech sectors, provides a compelling reason for the move despite the city's higher living costs and faster pace of life. Furthermore, DC's extensive public transport system, including the Metro, makes navigating the city and its surrounding areas without a car much more manageable than in Nashville, where the reliance on personal vehicles is greater.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Nashville to Washington

When relocating, not only does the landscape change but so does the culinary scene. Food is a quintessential part of local culture and understanding what it's like to live in a new place. To assist in this transition, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Nashville, TN & Washington DC, DC . This will enable you to grasp the flavors and dining experiences awaiting in your future home.

NashvilleWashington

Most iconic local food item

Hot ChickenHalf-Smoke

Most popular meat dish

Barbecue RibsChesapeake Bay Crab Cakes

Most popular street food item

Barbecue NachosKimchi Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ JackfruitChickpea Salad

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Ben's Chili Bowl
    2. Old Ebbitt Grill
    3. Zaytinya

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

89

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

In Nashville, the fiery delight of Hot Chicken reigns supreme, a must-try for anyone seeking the authentic taste of the city. Enthusiasts flock to Prince's Hot Chicken and Hattie B’s to experience this local cuisine's true heat and flavor. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, the half-smoke, a smokier and more seasoned cousin to the hot dog, can be savored at iconic spots like Ben's Chili Bowl. The DC food scene also boasts a diverse array of international cuisines, reflecting its cosmopolitan nature. Neighborhoods such as Adams Morgan and Shaw are bustling culinary hubs where food lovers can explore everything from Ethiopian delights to contemporary American fare.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Nashville to Washington

Relocating can be a mix of excitement and uncertainty, especially when it involves losing touch with familiar favorite eateries. This comparison aims to ease your transition by guiding you from Nashville's top restaurants to their Washington DC counterparts, helping you find new places to call home for your taste buds.

The Catbird SeatMinibar by José Andrés

Both offer an intimate, multi-course dining experience with innovative dishes.

Hattie B's Hot ChickenRoaming Rooster

Known for serving up spicy fried chicken that rivals the heat and flavor of Hattie B's classics.

Prince's Hot Chicken ShackHot Lola's

A tribute to the original hot chicken with a unique spin, maintaining the essential fiery spirit.

City HouseCentrolina

Italian cuisine meets Southern charm, echoing City House's creative culinary fusions.

Rolf and DaughtersThe Dabney

Farm-to-table philosophy with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, akin to Rolf and Daughters' ethos.

Arnold's Country KitchenFounding Farmers

Southern comfort food in a farm-to-table setting, reflecting Arnold's dedication to hearty, American meals.

Pinewood SocialUnion Market

Offering a comparable community space with a mix of local eateries, similar to Pinewood's eclectic vibe.

Martins Bar-B-Que JointFederalist Pig

American BBQ with a focus on traditional techniques and diverse flavors, echoing Martins' beloved recipes.

Peg Leg PorkerHill Country

A celebration of Southern BBQ culture, capturing the essence of Peg Leg Porker's renowned offerings.

Loveless CafeLincoln's Waffle Shop

While offering a different menu, both establishments share a down-to-earth charm and a commitment to comforting, classic breakfast and brunch dishes.

As you settle into Washington DC, the transition from Nashville's culinary scene will be made smoother with places like Minibar by José Andrés and Roaming Rooster. These equivalents not only match the quality and experience of your Nashville favorites like The Catbird Seat and Hattie B’s but also introduce you to the local ingredients and unique tastes of DC. Particularly, Minibar by José Andrés offers an exquisite culinary journey, similar to what you cherished at The Catbird Seat, through its innovation and eye-catching presentations. On a more casual note, the fiery, flavorful essence of Nashville's iconic hot chicken continues in DC with Hot Lola’s and Roaming Rooster, promising a taste of home with a local touch.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Nashville to Washington

Real estate is vital when planning a move. Let's compare how Nashville, TN and Washington DC, DC stack up in terms of housing costs, styles, and urban lifestyle to better understand your options.

In comparing the housing landscapes of Nashville and Washington DC, one can't help but notice the significant cost differential, both in purchasing and renting homes. With Nashville presenting a more affordable option, the city's real estate often touts spacious yards and proximity to renowned music venues, complementing its more suburban feel. On the other hand, Washington DC, with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, emphasizes an urban lifestyle with listings highlighting access to metro and vibrant neighborhoods. This stark contrast in living environments and costs between the two cities underlines the importance of considering your lifestyle preferences and budget when making a move.

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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 Nashville to Washington

When planning a move from Nashville, TN, to Washington, DC, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for a smooth transition. The weather differences between Nashville and Washington, DC will impact your daily life and activities throughout the year. This comparison aims to prepare you for the new climatic conditions you'll face.

Summer icon
88/69

Nashville, TN

87/71

Washington, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
49/30

Nashville, TN

47/29

Washington, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Nashville, TN

40

Washington, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Nashville, TN

15.4

Washington, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Although Nashville and Washington, DC, share similar summer temperatures, you'll notice a stark difference in winter weather conditions, notably in snowfall, where Washington experiences over twice as much. Additionally, while both cities have nearly the same number of sunny days, DC has slightly higher annual rainfall and significantly more snow, impacting commuting and outdoor activities in winter. Air quality and natural disasters also differ; Nashville is more prone to tornadoes while DC faces hurricane threats and winter storms, necessitating different preparedness planning.

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

Moving from one city to another can drastically change your cost of living. Understanding how financial aspects compare is crucial. This comparison between Nashville, TN and Washington DC, DC details key economic differences to help you gauge what to expect.

When moving from Nashville to Washington DC, you'll face a higher cost of living, notably in housing and everyday expenses. Washington's higher average household income partly offsets this. However, state income taxes in DC vary widely depending on income, unlike Tennessee's zero percent. Despite higher taxes, DC's affluence rate is among the highest, driven by a booming professional services sector and federal employment. Yet, both cities struggle with homelessness and poverty, issues that remain significant despite economic strengths. Understanding these dynamics can help you plan financially for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Nashville, TN and Washington, DC

This guide offers a quick look to help you understand the differences in the comparison of the politics between Nashville & Washington DC , focusing on the political and religious landscapes. This comparison aims to give you an at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect from the residents in these cities.

NashvilleWashington

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeLean Liberal

Local Politics

Mixed, with a focus on business and growthProgressive, with strong federal governmental influence

Religion

Highly religious, diverse faith communitiesLess religious, diverse faith communities

When moving from Nashville to Washington DC, you'll notice a stark contrast in the political makeup and local politics. While Nashville leans towards a conservative stance with local politics focusing on business and growth, Washington DC is notably liberal, where local politics are heavily influenced by federal governmental affairs. Additionally, Nashville is known for its highly religious community with diverse faiths prominently celebrated across various local establishments. In contrast, Washington DC, despite also having diverse faith communities, is less religious overall. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate more smoothly to your new surroundings.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Nashville to Washington

When deciding to move from Nashville, TN, to Washington DC, DC, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic can drastically impact your decision. This comparison between the traffic and transportation options in Nashville & Washington DC will enlighten you on what to expect in your new city.

NashvilleWashington
2530

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

39

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes

Can you get by without car?

In contrast to Nashville where you might find yourself reliant on a car for most commutes, Washington DC's robust public transit system, including the Metro, buses, and bike-share programs, makes it feasible to navigate the city without personal vehicle ownership. Despite the higher traffic congestion in DC, the availability of public transit options and their connectivity significantly ease daily commutes. This accessibility not only promotes a more environmentally friendly way of living but also provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the bustling city's diverse neighborhoods and cultures without the hassle of parking or traffic.

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