Best Norfolk to Columbus Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Norfolk to Columbus Movers

Moving from the historical charm of Norfolk, VA, to the bustling energy of Columbus, OH, marks an exciting adventure and a significant life change for you. You're leaving behind the maritime spirit of "The Mermaid City" for the innovative pulse of "The Discovery City," each with its distinctive flavors, neighborhoods, and vibes. Recognizing the logistical and emotional complexities of such a long-distance journey, entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount for a smooth transition.

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Best Norfolk to Columbus Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Blue Men Moving LLC9.57A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Marathon Moving Services9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Manifest Shipping Llc9.19A+Authorized For HHGContact
Prime Movers USA9.08NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.23A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Norfolk guide.

5 Best Norfolk to Columbus Moving Companies

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

Blue Men Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional9.57/10
based on 1,226+ data points

About Blue Men Moving LLC

With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior moving experience...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3544037 / 1184394

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved78,500 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 1,058+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo
Exceptional9.19/10
based on 452+ data points

About Manifest Shipping Llc

Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and s...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3050908 / 49758

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved46,740 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional9.08/10
based on 628+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo
Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,243+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
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.

Norfolk vs. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting. This comparison seeks to ease the transition by highlighting similarities between Norfolk, VA & Columbus, OH neighborhoods . Familiarize yourself with the local vibe and community by exploring how your favorite Norfolk neighborhood compares to one in Columbus.

NorfolkColumbusHow They're Similar
GhentShort NorthArtsy area with vibrant nightlife
LarchmontClintonvilleQuiet, family-friendly community vibes
Freemason HarborGerman VillageHistoric homes and cobblestone streets
Granby StreetHigh Street in the University DistrictDiverse dining and shopping
Neon DistrictFranklintonGrowing arts scene and modern urban living
Ocean ViewGrandview HeightsGreat views and local eats
East BeachVictorian VillageClose community with charming houses
LafayetteBexleyUpscale living with a historic touch
West GhentDowntown ColumbusEnergetic urban life
RiverfrontScioto MileWaterfront parks and attractions

Imagine strolling through Ghent’s bustling streets and eclectic shops—your Columbus equivalent would be the Short North, where art galleries and vibrant nightlife pulse under colorful murals. If family-friendly, laid-back vibes resonate more with you, akin to those in Larchmont, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Clintonville, where farmers' markets and local festivals keep the community spirit alive. Appreciating historic architecture? Freemason Harbor's charm is mirrored in the German Village’s preserved homes and brick pathways. For those who relished the ocean views of Ocean View, Grandview Heights offers a unique browsing and dining experience, although it swaps coastal vistas for skyline panoramas. And for the urban dwellers drawn to Granby Street's dynamic mix of dining and entertainment, High Street in the University District offers an equally diverse cultural experience with shops, restaurants, and venues that cater to every taste.

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Things to Do in Columbus

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Norfolk to Columbus

Moving from Norfolk, VA to Columbus, OH, involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, to help you visualize what you're gaining against what you're leaving behind. From climate changes to cultural shifts, these charts aim to put the relocation into perspective.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Higher humidity
  • Frequent storms
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Limited job market
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Milder summers
  • Less severe weather
  • Larger metropolitan area
  • More job opportunities
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • No beach access
  • Less military presence
  • Landlocked culture
  • Different food scene
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Beach access
  • Military community
  • Maritime history
  • Seafood cuisine

When moving from Norfolk to Columbus, you're not just changing your address but your lifestyle too. Norfolk's access to beaches like Virginia Beach and its vibrant military community, supported by the presence of Naval Station Norfolk, offer a unique living experience. On the other hand, Columbus brings a different flavor to the table, with its bustling metropolitan vibe and expanding job market, especially in tech and education sectors. You might miss the seafood specialties from places like Blue Ocean Seafood in Norfolk, but Columbus counters with a diverse food scene, including renowned spots like Schmidt’s Sausage Haus in the German Village. Columbus also boasts an impressive array of parks and green spaces, like the Scioto Mile, providing a contrasting but pleasant shift from Norfolk's coastal landscapes.

Norfolk vs. Columbus Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk & Columbus, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the local culture and living experience of a region. By comparing these two vibrant food scenes, you will be better informed about what culinary delights await you in your new home.

NorfolkColumbus
Most iconic local food itemChesapeake Bay CrabBuckeye Candy
Most popular meat dishFried CatfishBratwurst
Most popular street food itemOyster Po'boyPierogi
Most popular vegan foodSeitan BBQ SandwichVegan Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Doumar's
  • No Frill Grill
  • Toast
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
  • Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
  • The Thurman Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Norfolk to Columbus, you'll transition from the seaside flavors of Chesapeake Bay crab and fried catfish to the Midwest's love for meats like bratwurst and traditional foods such as Buckeye candy. Columbus also boasts a vibrant street food scene, particularly in areas like the Short North and German Village, where food trucks and global cuisines abound. For vegans, both cities offer diverse options, though Columbus might edge out with specialties like vegan chili that's hearty and accessible across many neighborhoods. Both cities take pride in their food scene, with Columbus slightly leading in food truck abundance, health consciousness, and vegan-friendly offerings, reflecting its larger population and diverse cultures.

Norfolk vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city can turn it from just a place to live into a home. This restaurant comparison chart immediately bridges the food culture gap between Norfolk and Columbus, guiding you to find your new go-to dining spots based on your old favorites.

NorfolkColumbusWhat You'll Love
Handsome BiscuitMaplewood Kitchen and BarSouthern-inspired brunch spot.
The Grilled Cheese BistroMelt Bar and GrilledCreative takes on classic comfort food.
Omar’s Carriage HouseThe Guild HouseAmerican cuisine with an elegant twist.
A.W. Shucks Raw Bar & GrillThe PearlRenowned for oysters and seafood dishes.
No Frill Bar and GrillNorthstar CaféCasual eatery with a diverse menu.
LeGrand KitchenHarvest PizzeriaVersatile menu with a focus on local ingredients.
Doumar’sJeni’s Splendid Ice CreamsIconic dessert with innovative flavors.
Cogan's PizzaPaulie Gee’s Short NorthA spot for pizza enthusiasts.
LuceLindey'sUpscale dining with a memorable atmosphere.
TerrapinWolfs Ridge BrewingCombines fine dining with craft beer.

For those who hold a special place in their heart for the unique Southern flavors and brunch specialties found at Handsome Biscuit in Norfolk, Maplewood Kitchen and Bar in Columbus offers a comparable experience, with its light, airy atmosphere and a commitment to Southern-inspired cuisine. When it comes to indulging in comfort food, lovers of The Grilled Cheese Bistro's imaginative sandwiches will find themselves at home at Melt Bar and Grilled in Columbus, where the art of cheese and bread reaches new heights. And for those enchanted by the seaside charm and fresh offerings of A.W. Shucks Raw Bar & Grill, The Pearl in Columbus stands ready to transport your taste buds with its outstanding selection of seafood, including freshly shucked oysters.

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Norfolk vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for setting expectations and making informed decisions. This comparison is designed to elucidate the differences in real estate aspects between Norfolk, VA, and Columbus, OH to help you better prepare for your transition.

ComparisonNorfolkColumbus
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodRanch, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront, historicParks, family-friendly

While both Norfolk and Columbus offer attractive features for potential homeowners and renters, there are distinct differences worth noting. Norfolk's real estate market is highlighted by its waterfront properties and historic homes, reflecting a premium for those seeking proximity to the water or a slice of history. On the other hand, Columbus is praised for its parks and family-friendly neighborhoods, indicative of a city that prioritizes green spaces and community. Additionally, Columbus slightly edges out Norfolk in terms of walkability and bikeability, factors that contribute to a more urban lifestyle, essential for those who prefer to be in the thick of things without needing to rely heavily on a car.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Columbus, OH

1. German Village: Recognized for its picturesque brick streets and cozy atmosphere, German Village is incredibly pet-friendly with Schiller Park being a central spot for dog walking and socializing.

2. Short North: Known as the art and soul of Columbus, Short North is bustling with pet-friendly patios, boutiques like One Line Coffee that welcome furry friends, and several pet shops ensuring your pet's needs are always met.

3. Clintonville: Offering a more laid-back vibe, Clintonville is full of green spaces and parks such as the Whetstone Park of Roses, making it an ideal neighborhood for leisurely walks and outings with your pets.

Norfolk vs. Columbus Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Norfolk, VA to Columbus, OH, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two cities . Knowing the differences will help you prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
87°F / 70°F

Norfolk, VA

85°F / 65°F

Columbus, OH

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 32°F

Norfolk, VA

36°F / 22°F

Columbus, OH

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Norfolk, VA

39

Columbus, OH

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Norfolk, VA

22

Columbus, OH

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonNorfolkColumbus
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsTornadoes, Snowstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Norfolk and Columbus experience similar humidity levels and face challenges with pollen and mold allergies, significant differences in weather patterns may impact your daily life and activities. The colder winters and higher snowfall in Columbus require readiness for snow removal and cold-weather driving. On the other hand, Norfolk's milder winters and vulnerability to hurricanes necessitate different preparations. Transitioning from the mild winters of Norfolk to Columbus's snowy winters could be a considerable change, making winter gear and an understanding of snow-related safety precautions essential for new Columbus residents.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to gauge the financial implications. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Norfolk and Columbus compare can significantly impact your decision-making process and budgeting. This comparison aims to give you a clearer financial picture for your potential new home.

ComparisonNorfolkColumbus
Avg. Household Income$58,591$58,202
Cost of Living Index96.692
State Income Tax5.754.797
Avg. Property Tax0.991.62
Avg. Sales Tax67.5
Top 3 IndustriesDefense, International Trade, ResearchEducation, Finance, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateModerately High
PovertyNoticeableModerate
HomelessnessConcerningAddressed

Moving from Norfolk, VA to Columbus, OH, you might notice a few significant differences financially. Your average household income could potentially increase, which is beneficial given Columbus's lower cost of living index. Although the state income tax is less in Ohio, Columbus has a higher property tax rate compared to Norfolk, something to consider if you're planning to buy a home. However, the higher sales tax in Columbus is somewhat mitigated by the overall cheaper cost of living. Understanding these dynamics can help you better plan your move and finances, ensuring a smoother transition to your new city.

Norfolk vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Norfolk, VA to Columbus, OH, getting a quick snapshot of what to expect in terms of the community's key characteristics is crucial. This comparison focuses on giving you a glance at the political and religious makeup between Norfolk & Columbus, aiding in setting the right expectations for your transition.

NorfolkColumbus
Political Make-upDemocratic-leaningDemocratic-leaning
Local PoliticsActive in community issuesProgressive on social issues
ReligionHighly diverse, with a notable Christian presenceReligiously diverse, strong Christian and non-denominational communities

Both Norfolk and Columbus are leaning towards the Democratic side politically, signifying that your move won't dramatically change the political climate you're accustomed to. Columbus is particularly known for its progressive stance on social issues, reflecting its active community engagement in creating an inclusive environment. Religious diversity is a common thread between the two cities, but you'll find Columbus hosts a strong non-denominational Christian community, among others, which can be explored through various local institutions and gatherings. Understanding these nuances will help smooth your transition and integration into your new hometown.

Norfolk vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Norfolk, VA, to Columbus, OH, means adapting to a new way of life, including understanding the daily commute and traffic flow. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Norfolk & Columbus, to help you better navigate your move and plan your daily activities effectively.

ComparisonNorfolkColumbus
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2322
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingModerately Easy

In both Norfolk and Columbus, the average commute times are similar, suggesting you won't face a drastic adjustment in daily travel times. However, Columbus benefits from slightly less traffic congestion, potentially offering a more relaxed driving experience. Regarding public transport, Columbus edges out slightly over Norfolk, reflecting its investment in systems like COTA, which could make getting around without a car more feasible. Nonetheless, while living in Norfolk, you might find a car more necessary due to its spread-out nature and less robust public transit system. This side-by-side comparison should help you weigh your transportation options more accurately in your new city.

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