Best Seattle to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Emerald City to the nation's capital is not just a change of scenery, it's an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of life. You're trading Seattle's coffee culture and sweeping mountain vistas for D.C.'s monumental history and the pulse of political life. Recognizing the magnitude of this coast-to-coast journey, it's crucial to enlist trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this transition and are here to ensure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Best Seattle to Washington Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Seattle guide.
5 Best Seattle to Washington Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
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
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
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
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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.
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.
Seattle vs. Washington Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison between popular neighborhoods in Seattle, WA & Washington DC, DC . This guide aims to help you match your current Seattle neighborhood with a similar one in Washington DC, making your move as smooth as possible.
| Seattle | Washington | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Dupont Circle | Vibrant nightlife, diverse community |
| Belltown | Logan Circle | Trendy, with a rich culinary scene |
| Ballard | Georgetown | Historic, waterfront charm |
| Queen Anne | Adams Morgan | Eclectic with panoramic city views |
| Greenwood | Cleveland Park | Residential, with a small-town vibe |
| Fremont | Shaw | Artistic with a strong sense of community |
| West Seattle | Capitol Hill (DC) | Quiet, yet close to the action |
| Pioneer Square | Penn Quarter | Historic heart, modern living |
| South Lake Union | NoMa | Up-and-coming, tech-savvy |
| Wallingford | Petworth | Family-friendly, community-centric |
Moving from the artistic vibes of Fremont, with its famous Fremont Troll and the bustling Fremont Sunday Market, to Shaw in Washington DC, you'll find a similarly strong sense of community and a thriving arts scene, featuring the celebrated Shaw Main Streets. Meanwhile, if your love for Capitol Hill's eclectic mix of cafes, bars, and indie shops made Seattle feel like home, Dupont Circle in DC offers a vibrant nightlife and diverse community, not to mention its array of international cuisines and cultural events like those at the Dupont Festival. For those drawn to waterfront views and the historic atmosphere of Ballard, Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, high-end boutiques, and waterfront parks provide a seamless transition with a similarly rich historical background.
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.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Washington
Moving from one city to another is a major decision that requires a deep understanding of what you’re gaining and what you’re leaving behind. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Washington DC, DC , helping you weigh your options carefully.
Seattle, WA- High cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Less public transportation
- Less political engagement
Washington, DC- Rich cultural scene
- Historical landmarks
- Extensive metro system
- Political epicenter
Washington, DC- Hot, humid summers
- Higher crime rates
- More formal atmosphere
- Less access to nature
Seattle, WA- Natural beauty
- Thriving tech scene
- Laid-back culture
- Access to the Pacific
Seattle and Washington DC both offer unique living experiences that cater to different tastes and needs. Seattle's breathtaking scenery and proximity to nature can be a significant loss when moving to the urban environment of Washington DC. However, the cultural and historical richness of DC is unparalleled. You'll find yourself exploring the corridors of power at the Capitol, enjoying the cherry blossoms at the National Mall, or diving into the diverse culinary scene with establishments like Zaytinya for Mediterranean dishes or the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl for a taste of local flavor. Furthermore, Washington DC's metro system greatly surpasses the public transportation options in Seattle, easing commuting woes and encouraging exploration of vibrant neighborhoods like Georgetown or Adams Morgan. This move represents a transition from the laid-back, nature-oriented lifestyle of the Pacific Northwest to the bustling, history-steeped streets of the nation’s capital.
Seattle vs. Washington Food Guide
Food deeply influences the local culture and day-to-day living in any area. Understanding the culinary landscape is key when moving to a new city. In this guide, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle, WA & Washington DC, DC , so you can get a taste of what each has to offer and feel more at home in your new city.
| Seattle | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Half-smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | Mumbo sauce with chicken wings |
| Most popular street food item | Seattle Dog | Jumbo Slice Pizza |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Chickpea Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the fresh local seafood, particularly salmon, reigns supreme, with many restaurants around the Pike Place Market area showcasing it in their menus. Teriyaki shops also dot the city, reflecting Seattle's rich Asian culinary influence. Seattle's food culture is further defined by its blend of international cuisines, healthy eating trends, and a vibrant food truck scene. In contrast, moving to Washington DC, you'll find the unique half-smoke sausage and chicken wings slathered in mumbo sauce as local staples. The city's food scene spans the globe but holds a special place for American and East Coast specialties. The array of food trucks around the National Mall and trendy restaurants in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Shaw cater to every palate and dietary preference.
Seattle vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins at the dinner table. This restaurant comparison is crafted to make your transition from Seattle, WA to Washington DC, DC smoother, aligning your culinary preferences with new spots. By comparing top restaurants in Seattle to their equivalents in Washington DC, we aim to help you discover your next favorite dining destinations in no time.
| Seattle | Washington | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Pineapple and Pearls | High-end dining with innovative dishes |
| The Pink Door | Fiola Mare | Exceptional Italian seafood with scenic views |
| Pike Place Chowder | Duke’s Grocery | Known for comfort food and chunky chowders |
| Mamnoon | Maydan | Bold flavors from the Middle East and North Africa |
| Salumi | Stachowski’s Market | Deli with a reputation for quality sandwiches |
| Dick's Drive-In | Good Stuff Eatery | Casual spot for burgers and shakes |
| Skillet Diner | Founding Farmers | Modern diner with farm-to-table ethos |
| Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures | Whaley’s | Sustainable seafood in a chic setting |
| Matt's in the Market | Le Diplomate | Bustling brasserie with market-fresh ingredients |
| Marination Ma Kai | Toki Underground | Unique takes on Asian-inspired dishes |
Delving deeper into these dining experiences, one finds that the essence of each restaurant's offering is not just about the food, but the ambiance and the story behind each meal. Pineapple and Pearls in Washington DC mirrors the sophistication and creativity found at Canlis in Seattle, making it a haven for those who appreciate fine dining. Similarly, the energetic vibe and unique flavors at Maydan can easily remind one of the bold and heartwarming dishes at Mamnoon. For casual outings, Dick’s Drive-In’s simple, yet iconic menu finds its counterpart in the Good Stuff Eatery, where the focus is on quality ingredients and satisfying flavors, keeping the spirit of straightforward, no-frills American dining alive. These pairings not only signify a similarity in culinary excellence but also ensure you don't have to compromise on variety or quality as you make Washington DC your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's essential to compare real estate in Seattle, WA, and Washington DC, DC, particularly focusing on housing cost, architecture, and the overall lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide insights to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Seattle | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Victorian and Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, eco-friendly | Historic charm, proximity to landmarks |
In comparing Seattle and Washington DC, it's clear that each city presents unique opportunities and challenges in the real estate market. Seattle is known for its breathtaking Space Needle views and eco-conscious homes, reflecting its modern and Craftsman architectural styles. On the other hand, Washington DC boasts a rich history reflected in its Victorian and Colonial homes, often highlighting their historic charm and proximity to iconic National Mall landmarks in listings. While DC slightly edges out Seattle in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, Seattle offers a somewhat more affordable option for buying a home. The choice between these cities may come down to personal preference, whether you value the modern, bustling cityscape of Seattle or the rich, historical ambiance of Washington DC.
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.
Seattle vs. Washington Weather Considerations
Moving between cities means adjusting to new weather patterns. Comparing the climates of Seattle, WA, and Washington DC, DC is crucial to prepare for your relocation. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more comfortably to your new environment.
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When considering the move from Seattle to Washington DC, you'll find notable differences in weather patterns. Seattle offers a more mild climate with cooler summers and mild winters, while Washington DC experiences hot and humid summers with colder winters. Additionally, you'll encounter more sunny days in DC, but also a significant uptick in snowfall compared to Seattle's lighter dustings. The variation in natural disaster risks—earthquakes and volcanoes in Seattle versus hurricanes and floods in DC—also highlights the importance of local knowledge and preparedness in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Washington
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances will be impacted is crucial. This guide aims to compare the financial landscape of Seattle, WA to that of Washington DC, DC, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation. Key factors such as income, taxes, and living costs will be detailed, offering a clear view of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Seattle | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | N/A (Federal District) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.55 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 6.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Both Seattle and Washington DC are known for their high cost of living, but there are noteworthy differences. While Seattle boasts a higher average household income, Washington DC's cost of living index is somewhat lower. Notably, Seattle residents enjoy the advantage of no state income tax, a contrast to the federal taxes applicable in DC. However, DC counters with a significantly lower average property tax rate. The top industries in each city highlight the diversity in job opportunities, with Seattle's strength in technology and aerospace and DC's focus on government and professional services. Understanding these differences is key in preparing financially for your big move.
Seattle vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you'll find when moving from Seattle, WA to Washington DC, DC . Understanding these aspects can help you gauge the cultural and ideological landscape of your new home.
| Seattle | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive social policies | Federal focus with local activism |
| Religion | Diverse; less religious overall | Diverse; historically significant churches |
While both Seattle and Washington DC share a liberal and Democratic leaning, the local politics and civic engagement might feel different as you move. Seattle's progressive social policies contrast with Washington DC's unique blend of local activism and the ever-present influence of federal politics, given its status as the nation's capital. Religiously, both cities are diverse, but in Washington DC, you'll find historically significant churches that have played pivotal roles in American history. Understanding these nuances can make your transition smoother and enrich your experience in your new city.
Seattle vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA, to Washington D.C., you'll want to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two dynamic cities. This comparison aims to provide insights into what you can expect from your daily commute, helping you navigate and plan your travel more efficiently.
| Comparison | Seattle | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging in certain areas | Easier, especially within the city |
In both cities, you'll face similar levels of traffic congestion during peak hours, with Washington D.C. having a slightly higher rating. Notably, Washington D.C. outshines Seattle in terms of public transit options, thanks to its extensive Metro system, making it easier to commute without a car. Seattle's public transit is growing, with the Sound Transit making strides in connecting more neighborhoods. However, if you're moving from Seattle to Washington D.C., you'll appreciate the increased accessibility and options for getting around in the nation's capital without relying on personal vehicle ownership.
Popular Seattle, WA to DC Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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