Moving from Norfolk to Boston?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Norfolk to Boston Movers

Embarking on the journey from the historic charm of Norfolk, VA, to the vibrant energy of Boston, MA, presents an exciting chapter in your life. You're transitioning from the nautical vibes of "The Mermaid City" to the rich history and bustling streets of "The Hub." Given the distance and challenges of such a move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, our unbiased ranking algorithm ensures you're paired with the best, turning this significant life change into a smooth and positive adventure.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Norfolk guide.

5 Best Norfolk to Boston Movers

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

#1
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#2
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,675+ data points

Cambridge, MA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3638077 Verify

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

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#3
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,058+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Residential Moves, Commercial Moves, Packing & Delivery See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3572153 Verify

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>

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#4
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional

based on 628+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Local moves (within 50 miles), Long distance moves (over 50 miles), Packing/unpacking services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2995403 Verify

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>

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#5
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo
Very Good
claimed company icon

based on 1,243+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Local and long-distance professional moving services, Free in-home estimates, Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3239170 Verify

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one of the most ex...Read More >>

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Relocating from Norfolk to Boston Neighborhood Guide

When relocating from Norfolk, VA, to Boston, MA, familiarizing yourself with a new city can be daunting. To bridge the gap, this guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods to help you find a slice of home in Boston that resonates with your Norfolk experience. Whether you're looking for a vibrant community, serene landscapes, or rich cultural spots, this comparison will guide your journey to making Boston your next home.

NorfolkBoston
GhentJamaica Plain

Diverse, artsy vibe

LarchmontBrookline

Safe, family-friendly

Freemason DistrictBeacon Hill

Historic, cobblestone streets

Ocean ViewSouth Boston

Waterfront views, community feel

Colonial PlaceRoslindale

Residential, green spaces

LindenwoodAllston

Student life, vibrant nightlife

BelvedereBack Bay

Upscale, architecturally stunning

RiverviewNorth End

Culturally rich, Italian heritage

East Ocean ViewDorchester

Diverse, coastal community

BayviewCharlestown

Historic, waterfront charm

Imagine finding the eclectic, artsy atmosphere of Norfolk's Ghent in Boston's Jamaica Plain, where murals and local art studios like the Jamaica Plain Open Studios celebrate creativity. For those enchanted by the serene, family-oriented vibe of Larchmont, Brookline offers an equally tranquil environment with notable sites such as the Larz Anderson Park. If you're captivated by the historic essence and cobblestone charm of the Freemason District, Beacon Hill's Bostonian historic district, complete with its gas-lit streets and quintessentially American brick row houses, will feel like stepping into a familiar yet thrilling narrative. Meanwhile, waterfront lovers can exchange the spacious views of Ocean View for the lively yet quaint coastline of South Boston, where Pleasure Bay and Castle Island invite endless exploration.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Norfolk to Boston

Moving from one place to another is always a mix of excitement and apprehension. By comparing Norfolk, VA's drawbacks with Boston, MA's advantages, and vice versa, this guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Norfolk to Boston.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Less cultural venues
  • Limited job market
  • Smaller city
  • Lower educational opportunities
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Lower crime rate
  • More cultural venues
  • Broader job market
  • Larger city
  • Higher educational opportunities
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Colder winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • No beaches nearby
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less community feel
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Warmer winters
  • Lower cost of living
  • Beaches nearby
  • Easier traffic
  • Community vibe

Moving from Norfolk to Boston means exchanging the warmth of Virginia's beaches, like the popular Virginia Beach, for the historic streets and vibrant cultural scene in Boston. Although you'll leave behind Norfolk's comparatively easier traffic and community vibe, you'll find new opportunities in Boston's larger job market, especially in sectors such as technology, education, and healthcare. The city's myriad of cultural venues, from the renowned Museum of Fine Arts to the historic Freedom Trail, offers endless exploration. Yes, winters will be colder, and the cost of living higher, but Boston's unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, combined with higher educational opportunities at institutions like MIT and Harvard, presents a compelling new chapter for those willing to embrace the change.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Norfolk to Boston

This comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk & Boston aims to enlighten you about the food scene you're moving into. Understanding the local cuisine is crucial as food is a vital part of the area's culture and living experience.

NorfolkBoston

Most iconic local food item

She-crab soupClam chowder

Most popular meat dish

Barbecue ribsLobster roll

Most popular street food item

Fried oystersClam cakes

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit tacosSeitan steak

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Doumar's Cones & BBQ
  • Handsome Biscuit
  • Toast
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Mike's Pastry

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

78

Vegan Friendly

79

In Norfolk, the coastal city is known for its remarkable seafood, with Doumar's and Handsome Biscuit standing as notable spots for tasting local flavors. The city’s vibrant food truck scene offers everything from fried oysters to gourmet vegan options like jackfruit tacos. Moving to Boston, you'll enter a world where the clam chowder and lobster rolls reign supreme. You can delve deeper into Boston's rich food culture at historic spots like Union Oyster House and the modern vibes at Neptune Oyster. The vegan scene in Boston is also thriving, with places like Neptune Oyster providing innovative plant-based dishes that cater to a wide audience. Whether you're exploring the picturesque streets of the North End or the bustling Seaport District, Boston's food scene offers something for everyone.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Norfolk to Boston

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. Whether you're craving high-end dining or cozy, casual bites, this restaurant comparison will effortlessly guide your culinary journey from Norfolk, VA to Boston, MA , ensuring you discover your next favorite eateries with ease.

Chartreuse BistroGiulia

Elegant, farm-to-table Italian dining

Omar's Carriage HouseThe Beehive

Eclectic, globally inspired fare with live music

Handsome BiscuitMike's City Diner

Iconic spot for breakfast and brunch classics

LuceBar Mezzana

Coastal Italian cuisine in a chic atmosphere

ToastTatte Bakery & Cafe

Cozy spot for coffee, pastries, and brunch

Cogan's PizzaSantarpio's Pizza

Traditional, no-frills pizza joint

No Frill Bar and GrillThe Gallows

American comfort food with a creative twist

A.W. Shuck'sEventide Fenway

Renowned for freshly shucked oysters and seafood

LeGrand KitchenRow 34

Offers a modern take on seafood and craft beer

Stella'sNazca Cafe & Grill

Peruvian dishes in a warm setting

In your quest to find culinary gems in Boston that echo the beloved flavors of Norfolk, each restaurant listed offers a unique dining experience reminiscent of your favorite Norfolk spots. Giulia in Boston mirrors the intimate and farm-to-fresh ambiance of Chartreuse Bistro, making it a must-visit for lovers of artisan Italian cuisine. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts who frequented A.W. Shuck's will find a new haven in Eventide Fenway, where the freshness and variety of seafood dishes are unparalleled, providing a vibrant taste of the ocean much like what's loved back in Norfolk. For those Sunday mornings when you long for the comforting embrace of a buttery biscuit from Handsome Biscuit, Mike's City Diner awaits with open arms, serving up hearty brunch favorites that'll make you feel right at home. These selections not only showcase the best of Boston's dining scene but ensure that the transition from Norfolk to Boston is filled with delightful culinary explorations.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Norfolk to Boston

Understanding the real estate landscape is crucial when relocating. Comparing the housing aspects between Norfolk, VA and Boston, MA provides insight into important factors like cost and lifestyle. This comparison will help make your transition smoother.

When moving from Norfolk to Boston, you'll find significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. Boston, known for its high walkability score, allows for easy exploration of its rich historical sites and bustling urban environment. The city’s architecture, blending Colonial and Victorian styles, often features in real estate listings alongside mentions of proximity to the comprehensive public transit system. Norfolk offers more affordable housing options with features like spacious yards, appealing to those seeking more space. Both cities exhibit unique lifestyle qualities and architectural charms, providing varied living experiences that cater to different preferences.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA

1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.

2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.

3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Norfolk to Boston

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for your comfort and preparedness. Norfolk and Boston significantly differ in climate conditions, affecting everything from your wardrobe to your daily activities. This comparison aims to highlight these differences to help you adjust seamlessly to your new environment.

Summer icon
87°F / 70°F

Norfolk, VA

82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 32°F

Norfolk, VA

37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47"

Norfolk, VA

44"

Boston, MA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Norfolk, VA

48"

Boston, MA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Boston experiences a more pronounced four-season climate compared to Norfolk, which reflects particularly in their winter temperatures and snowfall. While Norfolk offers milder winters with rare snow, Boston's winters are colder and accompanied by substantial snowfall, influencing activities and transportation options. Additionally, the slightly higher humidity levels and warmer summers in Norfolk could affect comfort and outdoor plans. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move, whether that means investing in warmer clothing for Boston's winters or adjusting to Norfolk's humid summers.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Norfolk to Boston

Moving between cities is a significant change, especially when it comes to finances. If you're transitioning from Norfolk, VA to Boston, MA, understanding the cost of living, taxes, and the overall economic landscape of your new home is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight what you can expect from Norfolk to Boston in terms of money and finance differences.

When comparing Norfolk to Boston, you'll notice significant differences in economic conditions. For one, the average household income in Boston is substantially higher, reflecting its higher cost of living—a figure that far exceeds the national average. Despite this, Boston's state income tax is slightly lower. The cities’ leading industries also indicate potential career paths; while Norfolk thrives on defense and cargo, Boston is a hub for education, health services, and technology. This economic diversity might influence your employment opportunities and lifestyle. Remember, these financial metrics are pivotal in planning your transition carefully.

Political & Religious Comparison between Norfolk, VA and Boston, MA

As you plan your move from Norfolk, VA to Boston, MA, an understanding of the political and religious landscape is essential for a smooth transition. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Norfolk & Boston , offering a glimpse into what you can expect from your new community.

NorfolkBoston

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderately engaged communityHighly active political scene

Religion

Christianity predominant, diverse religious communityChristianity prevalent, significant Catholic population, religious diversity

In Norfolk, the political atmosphere tends to lean Democratic, but with a moderation that suggests a balanced range of viewpoints within the community. Religious practices in Norfolk are predominantly Christian, yet the city is home to a diverse range of faiths, reflecting its eclectic makeup. Moving to Boston, you'll find a city with a strongly Democratic leaning and a vibrant local political scene, indicating a population that's highly engaged in political discourse. Boston's religious landscape is similar, with a large Christian community, notably Catholic, amid a broad diversity of faiths. This political and religious snapshot provides you a glimpse into the local culture and social fabric you're about to become a part of.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Norfolk to Boston

Moving from Norfolk, VA to Boston, MA offers a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options between Norfolk & Boston, helping you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like in these distinct urban environments.

NorfolkBoston
2530

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingYes

Can you get by without car?

The average commute time in Norfolk is slightly shorter than in Boston, possibly due to lower traffic congestion. Norfolk's more relaxed traffic scenario is reflected in its congestion score of 4 out of 10, compared to Boston's more bustling traffic, scoring 7 out of 10. Public transit is more accessible and robust in Boston, earning it an 8 out of 10, which helps explain why it's easier to live in Boston without a car. While Norfolk does offer some public transit options, its score of 6 out of 10 suggests it's not as comprehensive or convenient as Boston's system, making car dependence more common in Norfolk.

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