Best Richmond to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Richmond to Washington Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Richmond, VA, to the bustling political heart of the nation, Washington DC, signifies not just a change of address but an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. You're transitioning from the River City, known for its rich history and lush green spaces, to the Capital of the Free World, where global decisions are made amidst monumental landmarks. To ensure this significant move is smooth and stress-free, it’s crucial to entrust your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we rank at Great Guys Moving, who truly understand the nuances of such a pivotal long-distance move.

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Best Richmond to Washington Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Bookstore Movers9.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Mic's Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Estes SureMove9.21A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Two Men and a Truck8.96A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Cavalier Moving8.50A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Richmond guide.

5 Best Richmond 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
Exceptional9.60/10
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
Estes SureMove Logo
Exceptional9.21/10
based on 1,255+ data points

About Estes SureMove

The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you, but at th...Read More >>

Services

  • Home moving
  • Employee relocations
  • Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

121018 / 97275

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans9,075
Registered Drivers8,573
Total Annual Miles Moved586,187,648 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb8.96/10
based on 3,899+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

With over 30 years’ experience and 350 locations worldwide, Two Men and a Truck is a trusted name in the moving industry. Its Richmond locat...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2430443 / 837779

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers16
Total Annual Miles Moved240,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Cavalier Moving Logo
Fabulous8.50/10
based on 4,080+ data points

About Cavalier Moving

Established in Richmond in 2019, Cavalier Moving is not a novice in the moving industry. It’s backed by highly-experienced owners and profes...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3193540 / 138477

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved240,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven β€” 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.

Richmond vs. Washington Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the new location. To help ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with the unknown by comparing popular neighborhoods in Richmond, VA & Washington DC, DC . Discover neighborhoods that share similar vibes, community features, and atmospheres to make your move feel like you're not too far from home.

RichmondWashingtonHow They're Similar
The FanDupont CircleVibrant nightlife, historic homes
Church HillCapitol HillHistoric architecture, community feel
CarytownAdams MorganEclectic shopping, diverse cuisine
Scott's AdditionNoMaBooming brewery scene, modern apartments
Shockoe BottomNavy YardWaterfront views, lively atmosphere
Museum DistrictKaloramaCultural attractions, upscale living
Libbie MillBloomingdaleGrowing community, family-friendly
ManchesterSouthwest WaterfrontRiverside living, modern amenities
Forest HillCleveland ParkGreen spaces, neighborhood charm
Belle IsleGeorgetownOutdoor activities, historic sites

For those enthralled by the vibrant nightlife and historic homes of The Fan, Dupont Circle in DC offers a similar enchanting experience with its lively bars and significant architecture. If the eclectic shopping and diverse meal options of Carytown are what you're after, Adams Morgan will delight you with its unique boutiques and global cuisine. Scott's Addition's booming brewery scene finds its match in NoMa, where new breweries and modern apartments are continually popping up. Meanwhile, Shockoe Bottom's counterpart, Navy Yard, presents an irresistible waterfront setting combined with a dynamic atmosphere perfect for those seeking lively surroundings. Transitioning doesn't have to mean leaving behind the aspects you loved most about your old neighborhood. Whether it's the cultural attractions, green spaces, or historic sites, Washington DC has neighborhoods that echo the charm of Richmond's beloved locales.

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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 Richmond to Washington

Moving from Richmond, VA to Washington DC, DC is a significant transition that comes with its own set of rewards and challenges. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your options wisely.

CONs
PROs
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Quieter nightlife
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Larger job market
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Livelier nightlife
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Quieter nightlife
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Larger job market
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Livelier nightlife

When weighing the decision to move from Richmond, VA, to Washington DC, it's important to consider both lifestyle and logistical changes. For instance, Washington DC's robust job market can offer more opportunities, particularly in sectors like politics, education, and healthcare. However, this comes with a higher cost of living compared to Richmond. The livelier nightlife in DC is epitomized by vibrant spots such as 9:30 Club and POV Rooftop Lounge, offering something for every taste. Despite the increased traffic, DC's public transportation, including the Metro, provides an effective way to navigate the city. Additionally, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Georgetown offer rich experiences with their unique restaurants, boutique shops, and beautiful parks, such as Rock Creek Park. The transition from Richmond to DC promises a change in pace and lifestyle, making it a move worth considering for those seeking new opportunities and experiences.

Richmond vs. Washington Food Guide

Whether you're considering a move for work, family, or a change of pace, the local cuisine is a crucial part of what makes each city unique. This guide is here to help you compare the local cuisine between Richmond & Washington DC , so you can better understand the culinary landscape awaiting you in your new home.

RichmondWashington
Most iconic local food itemVirginia HamHalf-Smoke
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemTacosFalafel
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQVegetable Curry
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • L'Opossum
  • Mama J's Kitchen
  • The Roosevelt
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Le Diplomate
Fitness/Health ConscientiousnessπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺ
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Richmond, the love for Virginia Ham and BBQ reflects the city's rich culinary heritage, echoed in local favorites like L'Opossum and Mama J's Kitchen. Moving to Washington DC, you'll find a vibrant food scene with an international flair, evident in popular dishes like the Half-Smoke from Ben's Chili Bowl and varied vegan options throughout the city. The capital's abundance of food trucks and higher health consciousness paves the way for an exciting culinary adventure, whether you're exploring the historic U Street or dining in the trendy eateries of Logan Circle.

Richmond vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the importance of culinary experiences in making a place feel like home is crucial when relocating. This restaurant comparison from Richmond to Washington DC aims to ease your transition by helping you find a new favorite eatery that mirrors the beloved flavors of your current locale.

RichmondWashingtonWhat You'll Love
L'OpossumLe DiplomateFrench bistro with a similar upscale but quirky vibe
Mama J'sBen's Chili BowlIconic spot known for comfort food with a rich history
Julep's New Southern CuisineGeorgia Brown'sSouthern comfort food with an upscale twist
Peter Chang'sPanda GourmetAuthentic Chinese dishes with bold flavors
Stella'sIron GateMediterranean fare in a cozy yet elegant setting
SaisonBad SaintSmall plates and inventive cocktails with a seasonal focus
Rappahannock Oyster BarWhaley'sSeafood-centric dishes with a focus on sustainability
JJ's Red HotsMeats & FoodsA casual spot known for artisanal hot dogs
ShagbarkWoodward TableFarm-to-table American cuisine with a rustic touch
HeritageZaytinyaA mix of modern and traditional dishes from the Mediterranean region

Exploring Washington DC's culinary landscape through the lens of your Richmond favorites offers a comforting bridge between the familiar and the new. For instance, L'Opossum's uniquely Richmond charm is mirrored in Le Diplomate's French flair and vibrant atmosphere. If the soul-warming dishes of Mama J's are what you'll miss, the historical and cultural resonance of Ben's Chili Bowl offers a savory slice of DC hospitality. Meanwhile, fans of JJ's Red Hots will appreciate the artisanal approach of Meats & Foods, where the humble hot dog is elevated through quality ingredients and craftsmanship. Each restaurant transition not only preserves a sense of culinary adventure but also introduces you to the unique flavors and stories that Washington DC has to offer.

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Richmond vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a critical aspect when considering a move. Understanding how Richmond and Washington DC compare in terms of housing options such as cost, architectural style, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. This guide aims to highlight these crucial differences and similarities.

ComparisonRichmondWashington
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, VictorianFederal, Modern
Walkability πŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘Ÿ
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle πŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈ
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHistoric homes, Large yardsProximity to Metro, Rooftop decks

When comparing housing in Richmond and Washington DC, several notable differences emerge. Richmond offers a more affordable cost of living, with both median home prices and rent significantly lower than in DC. The architectural styles also reflect the cities' unique histories, with Richmond favoring colonial and Victorian homes, while Washington DC showcases a blend of federal and modern designs. Another crucial aspect is the quality of life; DC scores higher in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, indicating a potentially more vibrant, albeit costlier, urban experience. Homes in DC often emphasize proximity to the Metro and amenities like rooftop decks, underscoring the city's emphasis on convenience and luxury.

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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.

Richmond vs. Washington Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Richmond, VA to Washington DC, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between your current and future home. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences in climate conditions to help you adapt seamlessly to your new environment.

Summer icon
89/71

Richmond, VA

87/71

Washington, DC

Average Summer High/Low (Β°F)

Winter icon
48/29

Richmond, VA

44/28

Washington, DC

Average Winter High/Low (Β°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Richmond, VA

40

Washington, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
10

Richmond, VA

15

Washington, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRichmondWashington
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsHurricanes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Yearβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈ
Avg. UV IndexπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈ
Avg. Annual HumidityπŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦

Despite their proximity, Richmond and Washington DC offer some noticeable differences in climate that might affect your daily life after moving. For instance, summer temperatures are slightly higher in Richmond than in DC, potentially influencing your leisure activities and energy costs. Additionally, while both cities experience hurricanes and floods as common natural disasters, Washington DC tends to have more snowfall annually, which can impact commuting and outdoor activities in winter. Understanding these variances will aid in your acclimatization and ensure you're well-prepared for the weather in your new city.

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

Moving between cities can be a significant transition, especially when considering finances. Understanding how the cost of living and income potential in Richmond and Washington DC compare is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight key financial aspects that might affect your lifestyle once you relocate.

ComparisonRichmondWashington
Avg. Household Income$51,770$90,088
Cost of Living Index104.5140.1
State Income Tax5.758.95
Avg. Property Tax0.800.56
Avg. Sales Tax5.36.0
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Finance, EducationGovernment, Professional Services, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

When moving from Richmond to Washington DC, you'll notice a significant jump in the cost of living, reflecting mainly in housing and daily expenses. Despite this, the average household income in DC is notably higher, which can help mitigate the impact of these costs. Additionally, Washington DC's top industries offer a wealth of professional opportunities, particularly in government and professional services, which is a critical consideration for career-focused individuals. While both cities have their economic challenges, including homelessness, your financial wellbeing in DC could benefit from the higher income potential and dynamic job market.

Richmond vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison

This brief overview offers a quick glimpse at the comparison of the politics between Richmond & Washington DC , providing an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of both cities. Understanding these differences can help you adjust to your new community.

RichmondWashington
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsCity Council governanceHome-rule; governed by a Mayor and a Council
ReligionDiverse; Christian majorityDiverse; Christian majority with significant non-Christian communities

When moving from Richmond to Washington DC, you'll find both cities share a Democratic leaning, but DC has a notably stronger Democratic presence, influencing city policies and the general atmosphere. Local politics in Richmond revolve around a city council system, while Washington DC operates under home-rule, with a Mayor and Council that face unique challenges, such as lobbying for statehood and greater autonomy. Despite these differences, both cities boast a diverse religious landscape, though Washington DC presents a wider variety of communities, including significant non-Christian faiths. Understanding these nuances will help ease your transition and enrich your experience in your new home.

Richmond vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Richmond, VA to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities to better prepare for your daily commute and manage expectations. This comparison will guide you through the nuances of navigating each city.

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

In comparing Richmond, VA to Washington DC, DC, it's evident that daily commuting experiences differ significantly. Washington DC boasts a higher availability of public transit options, making it easier for residents to get around without a personal vehicle. The Metro and bus services in DC are extensive and reliable, covering the majority of the city and its surrounding suburbs. Conversely, Richmond's public transit system is not as robust, making a car a more necessary option for commuting. Moreover, traffic congestion is notably higher in Washington DC, reflective of its status as a densely populated urban area. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the logistical aspects of your move and adjust your expectations accordingly.

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