Best Seattle to Boston Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Seattle to Boston Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the Cradle of Liberty is an adventure that marks a significant chapter in your life. Leaving behind Seattle’s majestic mountains and innovative spirit for Boston’s rich history and vibrant seasons is a journey all its own. It’s crucial that you trust this transition to professional movers who are not just reliable, but truly the best, enabling you to start your new chapter with confidence and ease.

Washington iconArrow iconMassachusetts icon

Best Seattle to Boston Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Stairhopper Movers9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Centaur Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Seattle Moves & More9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to Boston Moving Companies

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
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1
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
S
Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
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 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
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.

Seattle vs. Boston Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from one city to another, getting to know your new neighborhood can feel like an overwhelming puzzle. To simplify this transition, we've created a guide to compare the popular neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Boston, MA . This comparison is designed to help you align your familiar preferences with similar environments in your new city, ensuring a smoother adjustment to your new surroundings.

SeattleBostonHow They're Similar
BelltownSouth EndDiverse and artistic vibe
Capitol HillBack BayHistoric with vibrant nightlife
Queen AnneBeacon HillCharming and steeped in history
FremontJamaica PlainEclectic and community-focused
BallardNorth EndRich in culture and cuisine
GreenwoodRoslindaleResidential with a laid-back atmosphere
West SeattleDorchesterDiverse with a strong sense of community
WallingfordBrooklineFriendly with excellent amenities
Pioneer SquareCharlestownHistoric waterfront charm
South Lake UnionSeaport DistrictModern with tech and innovation focus

If you relish the vibrant nightlife and historic charm of Capitol Hill, you'll find a similar spirit in Boston's Back Bay, known for its picturesque streets and bustling atmosphere. Fans of laid-back, cultural hubs like Fremont will appreciate Jamaica Plain's eclectic mix of restaurants, galleries, and community events. Meanwhile, Ballard's maritime heritage and culinary scene find a counterpart in the North End, Boston's oldest neighborhood, famed for its Italian restaurants and historic sites such as Paul Revere's house. This cross-city neighborhood comparison is designed to ease your transition by highlighting familiar comforts and exciting new locales to explore, from parks and markets to cultural landmarks.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Boston

Making the decision to relocate can be complex, involving a balance of factors both positive and negative. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad aspects of moving from Seattle, WA to Boston, MA, helping you weigh your options thoroughly.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High living costs
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less historical depth
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich historical sites
  • Distinct seasons
  • Better public transit
  • More educational opportunities
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller city feel
  • Higher education cost
  • Less outdoor activities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Nature access
  • Progressive culture
  • Dynamic tech scene
  • Vibrant music scene

Moving from Seattle to Boston translates into a shift from the laid-back, nature-surrounded environment of the Pacific Northwest, to the history-steeped, academic atmosphere of New England. Boston's Freedom Trail and Adams National Historical Park offer glimpses into America's founding, unmatched by the younger city of Seattle. However, Seattleites might miss the dense greenery and expansive parks like Discovery Park. Boston’s public transit system, specifically the MBTA -- known locally as “The T” -- far outstrips Seattle's, making commuting more manageable, despite Boston’s notorious winters. Notably, moving to Boston means embracing its compact city feel, a stark contrast to Seattle's sprawling landscapes, but also a transition to a city where American history feels alive at every corner.

Seattle vs. Boston Food Guide

As you plan your move, it's essential to consider the culinary landscapes of your current and future homes. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and daily life. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Boston to help you get a taste of what to expect and excite your palate for the new flavors awaiting you.

SeattleBoston
Most iconic local food itemSalmonClam Chowder
Most popular meat dishTeriyakiLobster Roll
Most popular street food itemHot DogsCannoli
Most popular vegan foodPhoVegetarian Sushi
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Canlis
  • Rover's (Closed)
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Union Oyster House
  • Mike's Pastry
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Boston, the local cuisine inherits a rich palette of flavors from the sea, most notably through its famous clam chowder found in establishments across the city, like the historical Union Oyster House. Another quintessential Boston experience is enjoying a lobster roll, possibly at spots like Neptune Oyster in the North End, which also hosts the iconic Mike's Pastry known for its array of cannoli flavors. The North End, Boston's Little Italy, is a haven for food lovers looking to dive deep into the city's culinary heritage. Here, the densely populated streets offer an array of dining experiences that cater to both the seafood aficionado and those with a penchant for the sweeter things in life.

Seattle vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering new favorite dining spots is essential for making a new city feel like home. This comparison between Seattle and Boston restaurants is designed to help you quickly find local equivalents to your beloved Seattle eateries. Whether you're craving high-end, casual, foodie, affordable, or iconic meals, this guide aims to smooth your culinary transition.

SeattleBostonWhat You'll Love
CanlisOleanaBoth offer an exquisite fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
The Walrus and the CarpenterNeptune OysterKnown for exceptional seafood with a cozy, yet upscale atmosphere.
Pike Place ChowderLegal Sea FoodsBoth have been recognized for serving some of the best chowder in their respective cities.
Pizzeria CredoRegina PizzeriaOffering authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas beloved by locals.
Tamarind TreePho BasilBoth provide a delightful exploration of Vietnamese cuisine in a casual dining setting.
MamnoonSarmaBoth restaurants offer an inventive take on Middle Eastern flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
Matt's in the MarketRow 34High quality, fresh seafood with a farm-to-table approach in both.
RevelMyers + ChangA modern approach to Asian cuisine, with a funky and casual vibe.
SalumiMonica’s MercatoBoth are cherished for their exquisite cured meats and sandwiches.
Serious PieStoked Wood Fired Pizza Co.Both are famous for their artisanal pizzas with unique toppings.

Among these matchups, Neptune Oyster and The Walrus and the Carpenter stand out for their exceptional seafood offerings, each bringing the best of their local waters to the forefront. On the other end of the spectrum, for those missing the heartwarming, vibrant flavors of the Middle East, Sarma in Boston mirrors Mamnoon's innovative dishes, with both restaurants earning accolades for their creative menus and enticing atmospheres. Similarly, pizza afficionados transitioning from Seattle will be pleased to discover Regina Pizzeria's traditional, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas that echo the artisanal quality and passion found at Pizzeria Credo. These recommended establishments not only promise a seamless culinary transition but also offer a taste of Boston's diverse food scene, reflecting the same passion for quality ingredients and memorable dining experiences found back in Seattle.

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Ready to start your move?

Seattle vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how the housing market compares between Seattle, WA, and Boston, MA is vital in making an informed decision. This comparison highlights key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle attributes to guide your decision-making process.

ComparisonSeattleBoston
Typical Architecture StyleModern and CraftsmanVictorian and Federal
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Eco-friendly featuresHistoric details, Access to public transit

When comparing Seattle and Boston, it's essential to consider more than just the numbers. Seattle's modern and Craftsman homes cater to those seeking a mixture of the new and the nostalgic, often emphasizing eco-friendly features and stunning views. In contrast, Boston's real estate market is rich in history, showcasing Victorian and Federal architecture with a keen focus on preserving historic details. Walkability and access to public transit are highly prized in both cities, but Boston edges out with its compact urban layout, making it slightly more pedestrian and bike-friendly. Both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, but your preference for modern versus historic settings might tip the scale.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Seattle vs. Boston Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between Seattle, WA and Boston, MA is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Seattle, WA

44

Boston, MA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Seattle, WA

48

Boston, MA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleBoston
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesSnowstorms, Nor'easters
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Seattle to Boston, you'll experience a significant change in both winter temperatures and snowfall. Boston's winters are notably colder, with the average low dipping to 22°F, and it sees substantial snowfall, averaging around 48 inches annually, compared to Seattle's mere 5 inches. Summers in Boston are also warmer and more humid, which might be a pleasant contrast for those accustomed to Seattle's milder climate. However, both cities share a similar level of annual sunshine, with Boston enjoying slightly more sunny days. This indicates that while you might need to invest in warmer winter clothing and snow gear for Boston, you'll also have more opportunities to enjoy sunny days outdoors.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Boston, MA, taking a closer look at financial and economic factors is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights the differences and similarities in cost of living, tax rates, and economic conditions between Seattle and Boston to help you understand how your finances might be affected.

ComparisonSeattleBoston
Avg. Household Income$110,781$79,283
Cost of Living Index121.4132.5
State Income Tax0%5%
Avg. Property Tax0.99%1.23%
Avg. Sales Tax10.1%6.25%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, RetailEducation, Health Services, Finance
AffluenceHighModerate to High
PovertyLowLow to Moderate
HomelessnessSignificantSignificant

While Seattle and Boston share similarities, such as a significant level of homelessness, there are notable financial contrasts to prepare for. Seattle's average household income is higher, but so is its cost of living index, reflecting the pricier lifestyle. Interestingly, Seattle residents benefit from a 0% state income tax, a notable advantage over Boston's 5%. However, Boston counters with a lower average sales tax. The primary industries also differ, with Seattle leaning towards technology and aerospace, while Boston is a hub for education, health services, and finance. These economic backdrops could significantly impact your employment opportunities and day-to-day expenses following your move.

Seattle vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another brings about interesting changes, especially when it comes to understanding the local community you'll be joining. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Seattle & Boston as well as a look into the religious makeup of both cities, offering a quick snapshot to help you gauge the atmosphere of your new home.

SeattleBoston
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive policies, environmental focusHistoric focus on education and healthcare reform
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedHigher Catholic presence

Both Seattle and Boston are known for their liberal/Democratic leanings, making them similar in political makeup. However, the local political landscapes offer insights into what matters to each city's residents. In Seattle, there's a strong emphasis on progressive policies with a significant focus on environmental sustainability. This might be reflected in the various initiatives and environmental programs the city undertakes. Contrastingly, Boston's historical roots have deeply influenced its focus on education and healthcare reforms, making it a hub for some of the world's leading institutions and hospitals. Religion in Seattle is marked by a less affiliated population, whereas Boston has a strong Catholic presence thanks to its historical and Irish heritage. Understanding these nuances can help you blend into your new city's social fabric more smoothly.

Seattle vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Seattle, WA, to Boston, MA, presents a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options of these distinctive cities. This guide is designed to help you understand what to expect in terms of the daily commute and traffic, ensuring a smoother transition.

ComparisonSeattleBoston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2830
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with some effortEasily

When moving from Seattle to Boston, you'll notice some key differences in how you may approach your daily commute. Boston, with its higher public transit score, offers more robust transportation options like the MBTA, which includes subways, buses, ferries, and trains, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. Moreover, Boston's slightly higher traffic congestion rating reflects its compact urban layout and historical roads, which can present a unique challenge for drivers. However, the city's commitment to public transportation and walkability significantly eases the burden of commuting. In contrast, Seattle, while still offering solid public transit options, often requires a bit more planning and reliance on car travel, especially for those living outside the urban core.

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