Best Washington to Virginia Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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WA to VA Moving Specialists

Moving from the Evergreen expanses of Washington to the historic landscapes of Virginia is not just a change of scenery; it's the start of an exciting chapter in your life. You're transitioning from the coffee capital and tech hub, where the Pacific Northwest rain nurtures lush landscapes, to the Old Dominion, known for its rich history, vibrant seasons, and proximity to the nation's capital. It's essential to entrust this significant journey to reliable and professional movers, ensuring your memories and belongings arrive safely. That's why we, at Great Guys Moving, use an unbiased algorithm to recommend the best movers, making your move as smooth as possible.

Washington iconArrow iconVirginia icon

Best Washington to Virginia Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
ARS Movers9.63A+Authorized For HHGContact
A Change of Place Movers9.58NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Seattle Moves & More9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.25A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Help-U-Move9.21A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia to Washington guide.

6 Best WA to VA Moving Companies

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

ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,704+ data points

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving (Residential Moving)
  • Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
  • Office Moving (Commercial Moving)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3260258 / 1027666

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved3 (2022)
View Full Review
1
A
Exceptional9.58/10
based on 925+ data points

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1293943 / 503371

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved290,815 (2023)
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
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.25/10
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 12/17/2024)

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
5
Help-U-Move Logo
Exceptional9.21/10
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 12/17/2024)

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
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 Virginia

Moving from Washington to Virginia presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This side-by-side comparison aims to reflect the genuine pros and cons of such a relocation, providing you with an honest glimpse into what awaits on both sides of the journey.

CONs
PROs
Washington iconWashington
  • Higher living costs
  • More rainfall
  • Heavy traffic
  • Dense population
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Lower living costs
  • Milder climate
  • Less congestion
  • More space
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Quieter cities
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Flatter terrain
  • Fewer coffee spots
Washington iconWashington
  • Vibrant city life
  • Rich tech industry
  • Lush landscapes
  • Abundant coffee shops

When considering the move from Washington to Virginia, the shift in living costs and climate are among the most impactful differences. Virginia’s lower cost of living means your dollar stretches further, allowing for a potentially higher quality of life. You'll find the weather more agreeable, with less rainfall making outdoor activities and exploration in places like Shenandoah National Park more accessible year-round. While Washington has a bustling vibe with neighborhoods full of trendy restaurants and coffee shops like those in Capitol Hill, Virginia offers quaint, historic towns such as Alexandria, where dining spots like Restaurant Eve offer a mix of local and upscale eating experiences. Though you might miss the vibrant, tech-driven atmosphere of Seattle, the historical richness, scenic beauty, and slower pace of life in Virginia offer a charming alternative.

Washington vs. Virginia Food Guide

As you prepare for your move, understanding the local food culture is crucial since food is an essential part of local identity and what living in a certain area feels like. We have prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & Virginia to help you get better acquainted with what culinary delights await you in your new home.

WashingtonVirginia
Most iconic local food itemSalmonHam (Smithfield)
Most popular meat dishGrilled SalmonCountry Ham Biscuits
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosOysters
Most popular vegan foodCauliflower WingsChickpea Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Canlis
  • The HerbFarm
  • How to Cook a Wolf
  • L'Auberge Chez François
  • Husk
  • The Inn at Little Washington
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Washington's food scene is renowned for its emphasis on local seafood and produce, with salmon leading as the most iconic food item. This focus on fresh, local ingredients can be seen in dynamic spots like Canlis in Seattle, offering stunning city views alongside its exquisite menu. Virginia, on the other hand, leans into its rich history and agricultural roots, with Smithfield ham being a staple. The state's colonial legacy is palpable in establishments like The Inn at Little Washington, nestled in the picturesque countryside. Both states boast a vibrant food scene, but if you're moving to Virginia, get ready to explore its culinary diversity from the cozy streets of Old Town Alexandria to the bustling markets of Richmond, where the fusion of history, culture, and innovation crafts a unique dining experience.

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Washington vs. Virginia Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when moving, offering a glimpse into lifestyle and living standards. It's enlightening to compare housing between Washington and Virginia to grasp the differences fully. This comparison will highlight aspects such as cost, walkability, and architectural styles, shaping your decision-making process.

ComparisonWashingtonVirginia
Typical Architecture StyleModern and CraftsmanColonial and Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingGreen space, Tech-friendly homesHistoric landmarks, Proximity to Washington, D.C.

Washington's housing market is characterized by its higher median home prices and rent, reflecting its vibrant urban lifestyle and tech-friendly environment. Modern and Craftsman styles dominate, complemented by amenities that promote an active lifestyle with high walkability and bikeability scores. In contrast, Virginia offers more affordable living options, with Colonial and Cape Cod architectural styles prevalent. The state boasts a more relaxed lifestyle with its lower urban scores, yet remains attractive due to its historic charm and proximity to Washington, D.C. These differences encapsulate the unique living experiences offered by both states, guiding you in finding a home that aligns with your lifestyle and financial considerations.

Washington vs. Virginia Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another means adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding how the climate in Washington compares to Virginia will help you adjust more smoothly. Here's an overview to illustrate the differences and similarities in the weather aspects of these two states.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Washington

87°F / 67°F

Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Washington

48°F / 32°F

Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38"

Washington

44"

Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Washington

14"

Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

While Washington and Virginia share similarities in winter temperatures, significant differences lie in summer weather, humidity, and sunshine. Virginia enjoys more sunny days per year, which correlates with its higher summer temperatures compared to Washington. The humidity in Washington is generally higher, affecting how temperatures feel during the summer. Natural disasters differ due to their geographic locations, with Washington being prone to volcanoes and earthquakes and Virginia experiencing hurricanes and floods. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the seasonal changes and hazards unique to each state.

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

When planning a move, understanding how your financial situation will adjust is crucial. Comparing costs and economic factors between your current and future home can provide valuable insights. This comparison focuses on the financial aspects of moving from Washington to Virginia, highlighting the critical differences and what they might mean for you.

ComparisonWashingtonVirginia
Avg. Household Income$91,306$85,873
Cost of Living Index104.196.6
State Income Tax05.75
Avg. Property Tax0.930.80
Avg. Sales Tax8.925.65
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, ForestryTechnology, Military Defense, Agriculture
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from Washington to Virginia, you'll notice several favorable shifts in your financial landscape. Despite the slight drop in average household income, Virginia’s cost of living index is notably lower, making daily and long-term expenses more manageable. The presence of state income tax in Virginia compared to Washington's none can be offset by the overall lower cost of living and the lower sales and property taxes. The top industries in both states offer strong job prospects, especially in technology. However, Virginia's focus on military defense and agriculture introduces diversified opportunities not as prevalent in Washington. Virginia also shows a better grasp on managing poverty and homelessness, hinting at a range of social and economic policies potentially favorable to new residents.

Washington vs. Virginia Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison aims to offer you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Washington & Virginia. Understanding these differences can help set realistic expectations about the communities you'll be interacting with after your move.

WashingtonVirginia
Political Make-upLean DemocraticMixed, with both Democratic and Republican strongholds
Local PoliticsProgressive in urban areas like SeattleVaries widely, conservative in rural areas, liberal in cities like Arlington
ReligionLess religious overallMore diverse religious landscape, with a higher attendance

In your move from Washington to Virginia, you'll encounter a tapestry of political and religious beliefs that reflect the varied history and culture of each state. Washington's urban centers, such as Seattle, are known for their progressive politics, while its overall less religious society contrasts with Virginia's diverse religious community and mixed political climate. The difference in local politics is particularly notable, with Virginia presenting a more complex picture due to its blend of rural conservatism and urban liberalism, something you might especially notice in communities like Arlington. This variety in Virginia offers a new set of opportunities and perspectives to engage with, opening up a richer dialogue and community experience for newcomers.

Education Guide When Moving from Washington to Virginia

Moving from one state to another can be a complex process, especially when it comes to educational opportunities for your children. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Washington and Virginia, ensuring you make the best choice for your family's educational needs.

WashingtonVirginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Washington
Washington State University
Gonzaga University
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
William & Mary

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah)
Medina Elementary (Medina)
Sunrise Elementary (Kent)
Nottingham Elementary (Arlington)
Long Branch Elementary (Arlington)
Lucketts Elementary (Leesburg)

Top 3 Middle Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Odle Middle School (Bellevue)
Lakeside Middle School (Seattle)
Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Frost Middle School (Fairfax)
Henley Middle School (Crozet)

Top 3 High Schools

Bellevue High School (Bellevue)
International School (Bellevue)
Newport High School (Bellevue)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High School (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)

Top 3 private high schools

Lakeside School (Seattle)
The Bush School (Seattle)
The Overlake School (Redmond)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Norfolk Academy (Norfolk)
The Madeira School (McLean)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Bear Creek School (Redmond)
Seattle Academy (Seattle)
Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland)
Nansemond-Suffolk Academy (Suffolk)
The Covenant School (Charlottesville)
Foxcroft School (Middleburg)

Top 3 School Districts

Bellevue School District
Mercer Island School District
Lake Washington School District
Arlington Public Schools
Falls Church City Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools

When comparing educational opportunities between Washington and Virginia, notable differences emerge, especially in the top destinations for college-bound seniors and the highly rated K-12 schools. In Washington, institutions like the University of Washington and Gonzaga University are popular among graduates, reflecting a strong inclination towards in-state higher education. Conversely, Virginia boasts prestigious universities such as the University of Virginia and William & Mary, indicating a different set of priorities or opportunities. Parents seeking top-ranked secondary education might lean towards Virginia for its nationally recognized Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, though Washington's Bellevue and Mercer Island School Districts offer exceptional K-12 education, rivaling Virginia's best. The decision between these two states' educational offerings will hinge on your family's specific needs and preferences for public versus private schooling, as well as consideration for post-secondary ambitions.

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