Best Washington to DC Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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WA to DC Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another marks a thrilling chapter in your life, brimming with new opportunities and adventures. Whether you're leaving behind Washington's lush landscapes and tech hubs for DC's historic neighborhoods and political heartbeat or vice versa, the shift between these diverse environments promises a fresh beginning. Understanding the importance of this journey, we emphasize selecting trusted and reliable professional movers for your long-distance move, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

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Best Washington to DC Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Bookstore Movers9.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Mic's Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.26A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Help-U-Move9.22A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers9.21NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from DC to Washington guide.

6 Best WA to DC 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
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,571+ data points

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,542+ data points

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Help-U-Move Logo
Exceptional9.22/10
based on 1,091+ data points

About Help-U-Move

Help-U-Move is a veteran-owned, locally operated small business in Pasco that handles over 4,000 moves yearly. It has provided residential a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Out of State Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

482337 / 252568

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers Logo
Exceptional9.21/10
based on 1,004+ data points

About Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Lake Coeur d’Alene Movers is a premier moving company in North Idaho, offering services throughout the region. Voted Best Moving Company in ...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/25/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3119758 / 87269

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved62,500 (2021)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington to DC

Moving from one place to another brings a world of change, offering both challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Washington to DC, ensuring you make a well-informed decision. Understanding the pros and cons will help navigate your transition smoothly.

CONs
PROs
Washington iconWashington
  • Higher living costs
  • Less political influence
  • Rainy weather
  • Lesser public transport options
DC iconDC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Central political hub
  • Varied seasons
  • Extensive public transit
DC iconDC
  • Urban environment
  • Higher housing costs
  • Faster pace of life
  • Lesser green spaces
Washington iconWashington
  • Natural landscapes
  • More affordable housing
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Outdoor activities

When moving from Washington to DC, you're trading the natural beauty and relaxed pace for a vibrant, culturally rich urban environment. DC's extensive public transit system, including the Metro, surpasses Washington's, making it easier to navigate the city. You'll find an array of historical sights like the Lincoln Memorial and cultural institutions such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture at your doorstep. However, the transition to DC's faster pace and higher living costs can be a challenge, and the availability of outdoor spaces like those in Washington, such as the vast parks and hiking trails, might be missed. Restaurants and nightlife in areas like Adams Morgan and the U Street Corridor offer diverse dining and entertainment options, contrasting the more laid-back lifestyle back in Washington.

Washington vs. DC Food Guide

Food is a vital part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. With that in mind, this guide will help you understand the food scene you're moving into by offering a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & DC. This knowledge can enhance your relocation experience, as exploring culinary delights is a great way to get to know your new home.

WashingtonDC
Most iconic local food itemSalmonHalf-smoke
Most popular meat dishGrilled salmonBen's Chili Bowl Chili
Most popular street food itemHot DogsFalafel
Most popular vegan foodVegan PhoImpossible Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Canlis
  • Wild Ginger
  • Matt's Rotisserie & Oyster Lounge
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose's Luxury
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

You're embarking on a tantalizing journey through vastly different culinary landscapes, from the lush locales of Washington to the bustling streets of DC. Washington, known for its salmon, offers a rich tapestry of seafood-centered cuisine, celebrated at iconic establishments like Canlis. On the streets, you're likely to find a plethora of hot dog stands, reflecting the state's love for this simple yet satisfying fare. Migrating eastwards to DC, the half-smoke stands proud as the city's emblematic food item, with Ben's Chili Bowl serving as a must-visit for newcomers. The DC food scene is remarkably vegan-friendly with options like the Impossible Burger easily found in hip locales such as Adams Morgan, underscoring the city's progressive culinary ethos. Whether you're craving the serene foodie vibe of serene Washington or the lively, health-conscious streets of DC, your palate is set to be delighted.

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Washington vs. DC Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, examining the real estate options between Washington and DC highlights crucial living condition comparisons. Understanding housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores in both areas can make your transition smoother and more informed.

ComparisonWashingtonDC
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, Northwest ContemporaryVictorian, Federal
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingGreen spaces, ViewsProximity to metro, Historic charm

When moving from Washington to DC, you'll find stark contrasts in housing and lifestyle. In DC, the higher median home prices and rent reflect its dense, urban setting, offering rich historical architecture like Victorian and Federal styles, much valued in real estate listings for their historic charm. Despite this, DC boasts superior walkability and bikeability, making it an ideal environment for those seeking an active urban lifestyle. Furthermore, listings in DC often highlight proximity to metro stations, underscoring the city's excellent public transportation network. In contrast, Washington's real estate listings frequent mentions of green spaces and scenic views cater to those preferring a connection with nature alongside urban conveniences.

Washington vs. DC Weather Considerations

Moving can be a big change, especially when it involves adjusting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather compares between Washington State and Washington, D.C., is crucial as it impacts your daily life, wardrobe, and activities. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities to help you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
75/55

Washington

89/71

DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/36

Washington

47/30

DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Washington

40

DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Washington

15.4

DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashingtonDC
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersVolcanoes, EarthquakesHurricanes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Washington to DC, you'll find significant weather changes, especially in summer temperatures and sunshine days. Washington State enjoys temperate summers and a moderate amount of sunshine, whereas DC experiences hotter summers and more sunny days. This could influence your daily clothing choices and how often you might participate in outdoor activities. Additionally, while Washington faces threats from natural disasters like volcanoes and earthquakes, DC's weather-related challenges tend towards hurricanes and flooding. Adjusting to these differences will be an essential part of your move.

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

When planning a move, it’s essential to weigh the financial implications. This comparison spotlights Washington and DC, illuminating differences in income, living costs, and more, to help you gauge the economic landscape and make an informed decision.

ComparisonWashingtonDC
Avg. Household Income$91,306$101,027
Cost of Living Index104.1140.1
State Income Tax08.95
Avg. Property Tax0.930.56
Avg. Sales Tax6.56.0
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, AgricultureGovernment, Education, Tourism
AffluenceSubstantialHigh
PovertyModerateConcerning
HomelessnessSignificantHigh

Moving from Washington to DC, you'll encounter a significant shift in the economic environment. Despite the higher average household income in DC, its cost of living index is considerably higher than in Washington, primarily due to housing costs. The absence of state income tax in Washington can offer substantial savings, especially when contrasted with DC’s top rate. However, DC’s bustling government, education, and tourism sectors provide a unique job market that may align with your career goals. Understanding these variations can play a pivotal role in planning your move, helping ensure financial stability in your new home.

Washington vs. DC Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick glance at the politics between Washington & DC , aiming to offer insights into the political and religious makeup of both areas. By comparing these aspects, you'll gain a better understanding of the communities and what to expect when moving from one place to the other.

WashingtonDC
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive policies on environment and social issuesFocus on home rule and statehood issues
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedDiverse religious landscape with Christianity being predominant

In both Washington and DC, the Democratic Party holds significant influence, but the political landscape in DC is more deeply entrenched in favor of Democratic ideals, partially due to its unique status and concentrated urban setting. Moreover, while Washington state is known for its progressive stance on environmental and social policies, DC's local politics often spotlight the pursuit of greater autonomy and statehood recognition. On the religious front, Washington presents a more secular demographic compared to DC, where a more diverse and pronounced religious presence can be found, reflecting the city's wide-ranging cultural and demographic makeup. This comparison enables you to grasp the subtle yet impactful differences that distinguish the communities of your current and future home.

Education Guide When Moving from Washington to DC

This comparison aims to better understand the differences between school options in Washington and DC, helping you make an informed decision about your child's education as you plan your move.

WashingtonDC

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Washington
Washington State University
Gonzaga University
Georgetown University
Howard University
American University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah)
Medina Elementary (Medina)
Bertschi School (Seattle)
Lafayette Elementary School (Washington)
Mann Elementary School (Washington)
Janney Elementary School (Washington)

Top 3 Middle Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Odle Middle School (Bellevue)
Washington Middle School (Seattle)
Deal Middle School (Washington)
Hardy Middle School (Washington)
Stuart-Hobson Middle School (Washington)

Top 3 High Schools

Lakeside School (Seattle)
Newport High School (Bellevue)
Garfield High School (Seattle)
School Without Walls High School (Washington)
Banneker High School (Washington)
Wilson High School (Washington)

Top 3 private high schools

The Overlake School (Redmond)
Seattle Academy (Seattle)
The Bush School (Seattle)
Georgetown Prep (North Bethesda)
Sidwell Friends (Washington)
National Cathedral School (Washington)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Bear Creek School (Redmond)
Seattle Country Day School (Seattle)
Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland)
Maret School (Washington)
St. Albans School (Washington)
Georgetown Day School (Washington)

Top 3 School Districts

Lake Washington School District
Bellevue School District
Mercer Island School District
DC Public Schools

The comparison above reveals significant educational opportunities in both Washington and DC, with each location boasting top-rated institutions that cater to a range of academic preferences. For instance, Washington's University of Washington and DC's Georgetown University are flagship institutions that most seniors aspire to, each offering unique campus cultures and programs. On the elementary level, schools like Cascade Ridge Elementary in Washington and Lafayette Elementary School in DC highlight the commitment to early education in both places. Moreover, prestigious private institutions such as The Overlake School in Washington and Georgetown Prep in DC offer rigorous academic programs alongside a wide array of extracurricular activities, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.

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