Best Irvine to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Irvine to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,735 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Irvine to Washington DC moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine compared to Washington DC. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Irvine to Washington DC Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
2Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
3Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
4NorthStar Moving Company9.218.97Authorized For HHGContact
5Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Irvine to Washington DC

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,735 miles from Irvine, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,107 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Washington DC move is roughly $9,929. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,753300 ft³9.18
1 Bedroom$4,107450 ft³9.13
2 Bedrooms$6,808750 ft³9.08
3 Bedrooms$9,9291100 ft³9.03
4 Bedrooms$14,3631600 ft³8.98
5+ Bedrooms$16,0681800 ft³8.93
*Please note: These California to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & DC. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to DC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Irvine guide.

Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Washington DC Movers

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

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

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

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.59/10
based on 4,108+ data points

1250 9th st. nw

Washington DC, DC, 20011

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...

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
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
NorthStar Moving Company Logo

NorthStar Moving Company

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.21/10
based on 10,283+ data points

633 W 5th St 26th floor

Los Angeles, CA, 90071

About NorthStar Moving Company

Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • International Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1836576 / 665757

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,965+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (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.

Irvine vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially to a city unknown to you. To ease your transition, we're providing a comparison of the popular neighborhoods in Irvine, CA with their closest equivalents in Washington DC, DC. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Washington DC that mirrors Irvine, CA so you can feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

IrvineWashington DCHow They're Similar
WoodbridgeCapitol HillFamily-friendly, historic homes
Turtle RockCleveland ParkQuiet residential, green spaces
University ParkTenleytownAcademic vibe, nearby universities
NorthwoodPetworthDiverse community, growing arts scene
Quail HillGeorgetownUpscale, scenic walking paths
Portola SpringsNoMaModern, with a vibrant nightlife
WoodburyDupont CircleTrendy, with lively dining
Great Park NeighborhoodsSouthwest WaterfrontDevelopment-focused, waterfront living
Shady CanyonKaloramaExclusive, with grand historic homes
Irvine SpectrumNavy YardEntertainment and dining hub

In comparing these neighborhoods, you'll find places like Georgetown and Quail Hill offer both an upscale living experience with scenic views perfect for evening strolls. For those who cherish community and natural beauty, Turtle Rock's counterpart, Cleveland Park, offers a serene atmosphere with ample green spaces, including the nearby Rock Creek Park. Likewise, if you're transitioning from University Park's academic surroundings, Tenleytown will make you feel right at home with its educational environment bolstered by American University. Dining and entertainment options near Dupont Circle mirror the vibrant lifestyle found at Woodbury, with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and art galleries that promise an enriching social life. By finding similarities between the neighborhoods of Irvine, CA and Washington DC, you can ease into your new city, discovering local favorites and making new memories.

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Things to Do in Washington DC

  • 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 Irvine to Washington DC

Moving can be a major life decision, and weighing the benefits against the drawbacks is crucial for making the best choice. Here, we'll provide an unbiased look at what you might gain and lose in relocating from Irvine, CA to Washington DC, DC. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of both cities to help with your decision.

CONs
PROs
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Lower humidity
  • Quieter suburbs
  • Less traffic
  • Smaller population
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Stronger public transport
  • More career opportunities
  • Historical landmarks
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Congested traffic
  • Higher living costs
  • Denser population
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Modern city planning
  • Accessible beaches
  • Low crime rates

While Irvine, CA, is known for its sprawling parks and leisurely paced lifestyle, Washington DC, DC, offers a dynamic environment with a myriad of cultural, professional, and social opportunities. For instance, the swap from Irvine's quiet suburbs to DC's bustling neighborhoods like Adams Morgan or Capitol Hill can be a significant transition. DC's strong public transport network, including the well-connected Metro system, dramatically offsets its infamous traffic congestion, making it easier to explore renowned historical landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial or the Smithsonian Museums. While Irvine boasts modern planning and safety, the transition to DC's vibrant community and rich historical tapestry offers a unique blend of professional growth and personal exploration in a city steeped in American heritage.

Irvine vs. Washington DC Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Washington DC serves as a guide to the vibrant food scene awaiting you. Understanding the culinary landscape of your new home is essential, as food is a vital part of local culture and daily life.

IrvineWashington DC
Most iconic local food itemAcai BowlHalf-Smoke
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemTacosFood Trucks Offering Various Cuisines
Most popular vegan foodVegan SushiVegan Soul Food
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Bistango
  • Habana
  • Diamond Jamboree Plaza
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Zaytinya
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring Irvine, you'll encounter a blend of international flavors, notably Korean BBQ, which has become a staple meat dish, reflecting the city's diverse population. Vegan sushi spots and taco trucks exemplify Irvine's eclectic and health-conscious food scene. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, the iconic half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl beckons with historical significance. The city's food trucks, offering everything from vegan soul food to international delicacies, create a dynamic street food culture. Particularly noteworthy are neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and U Street, which are hotspots for innovative and traditional dining experiences alike.

Irvine vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Finding your culinary comforts in a new city can transform it from a place you live to a place you love. This Irvine to Washington DC restaurant comparison charts aim to ease your transition by guiding you towards new favorite eateries, modeled after those you cherished in Irvine. Embrace the adventure of discovering Washington DC's diverse culinary scene, with this guide as your starting point.

IrvineWashington DCWhat You'll Love
HiroNori Craft RamenDaikayaAuthentic ramen experience similar to HiroNori's in theme and taste.
Taco RosaOyamel Cocina MexicanaCelebrated for innovative Mexican dishes, akin to Taco Rosa's approach.
North ItaliaCento OsteriaModern Italian dining echoing North Italia’s fresh, handcrafted meals and ambiance.
Din Tai FungThe Source by Wolfgang PuckBoth offer high-quality, Asian-inspired dishes with meticulous attention to detail.
BruxieG by Mike IsabellaOffers imaginative sandwiches and casual eats, similar to Bruxie's waffle sandwich creativity.
Bosscat Kitchen & LibationsFounding FarmersA farm-to-table staple that parallels Bosscat's mix of elevated comfort food and whiskey bar.
Sushi RokuZentanPresents a comparable level of innovative sushi and Japanese cuisine with a modern twist.
Urban PlatesSweetgreenFor those who appreciate Urban Plates' focus on healthy, wholesome meals, Sweetgreen offers a fresh, locally-sourced salad and bowl experience.
Marché ModerneLe DiplomateFrench cuisine with a flair that captures Marché Moderne’s sophisticated yet approachable menu.
Portillo's Hot DogsBen's Chili BowlLegendary for its own style of hot dogs and casual dining experience, reminiscent of Portillo’s vibe.

In the shift from Irvine's eclectic dining scene to Washington DC's culinary mosaic, nuanced comparisons help bridge the gap. Daikaya stands out as a beacon for ramen enthusiasts craving HiroNori's rich, simmering broths, offering an equally immersive dining escapade. Similarly, Oyamel Cocina Mexicana redefines expectations with innovative twists on Mexican favorites, echoing Taco Rosa's creative spirit. Foodies fond of farm-to-table concepts will find solace in Founding Farmers, which mirrors Bosscat Kitchen & Libations' commitment to quality, sustainability, and a cozy dining atmosphere. For the Francophiles, Le Diplomate offers a slice of Paris in the heart of DC, presenting an ambiance and menu reminiscent of Marché Moderne's charm and finesse. These handpicked establishments promise to deliver not just meals, but memories that resonate with the flavors you've grown to cherish.

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Irvine vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is pivotal when considering a move, particularly if your options span from Irvine, CA to Washington DC, DC. Knowing how these two vibrant cities compare in terms of housing can greatly influence your decision. This comparison aims to illuminate the distinctions and similarities in cost, architecture, and lifestyle between each city.

ComparisonIrvineWashington DC
Typical Architecture StyleModern and SpanishVictorian and Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen-plan layouts, poolsHistoric details, proximity to metro

When considering the move from Irvine, CA, to Washington DC, it's essential to note the striking differences in housing affordability and lifestyle. The average home in Irvine is notably more expensive, reflecting its modern and spacious housing trend, often complemented by luxurious amenities like pools. In contrast, Washington DC offers a rich tapestry of Victorian and Colonial architecture, with a strong emphasis on history and character. Moreover, DC's high walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more urban lifestyle, where daily necessities and work can often be accessed without a car, a contrast to Irvine's laid-back, car-dependent living. These differences embody not just distinct architectural styles, but divergent ways of life—where Irvine offers expansive suburban comfort, Washington DC caters to those seeking a dynamic, urban experience.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington DC, 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.

Irvine vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Irvine, CA to Washington DC, it's crucial to understand how the weather will differ. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Irvine and Washington DC , preparing you for the change and helping adapt your lifestyle and wardrobe accordingly.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Irvine, CA

87°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 48°F

Irvine, CA

47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13"

Irvine, CA

39.74"

Washington DC, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Irvine, CA

15.4"

Washington DC, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIrvineWashington DC
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHurricanes, Winter storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Irvine to Washington DC, you'll notice significant weather changes, particularly in humidity and seasonal variations. While Irvine enjoys ample sunshine and mild winters, Washington DC offers a range of seasons, from hot, humid summers to chilly, snow-filled winters. The higher annual rainfall and snow in DC compared to Irvine's drier conditions may require adjustments in your daily routine and wardrobe. Prepare for more variable weather, including the potential for hurricanes and winter storms in DC, in contrast to Irvine's earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences will help you make a smoother transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s essential to understand how your finances will be impacted. By comparing money and finance topics between Irvine, CA and Washington DC, DC, you'll grasp the economic differences and prepare for a smoother transition. This comparison illuminates critical aspects such as income, taxes, and living costs, ensuring you make informed decisions about your relocation.

ComparisonIrvineWashington DC
Avg. Household Income$105,774$90,088
Cost of Living Index136.4140.1
State Income Tax13.38.95
Avg. Property Tax0.720.56
Avg. Sales Tax7.756.00
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, Health ServicesGovernment, Professional/Technical Services, Education
AffluenceHighModerately High
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessModerateHigh

Moving from Irvine to Washington DC, you'll notice different financial climates. While the average household income may dip slightly, Washington DC's lower state income tax rate could offset your overall tax burden compared to California's high rates. The cost of living, while still above the national average in both cities, is a bit more manageable in DC. Important to note, the dominant industries reflect the cities' characters – with Irvine leaning towards technology and education, and DC being the heart of government and professional services. These economic landscapes influence job opportunities, living costs, and the social fabric of each city.

Irvine vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Irvine & Washington DC offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at understanding the political and religious leanings of the communities you're transitioning between. It's designed to provide clarity on the new social landscape you'll be navigating.

IrvineWashington DC
Political Make-upModerately ConservativeVery Liberal
Local PoliticsMixed, with a lean towards Republican in recent yearsStrongly Democratic
ReligionMixed, with notable Christian churches and Islamic CentersReligiously diverse, with historic Christian churches and strong Jewish Community Centers

Comparing the social landscape of Irvine with Washington DC, you'll find significant differences in the political atmosphere. Irvine presents a more mixed political environment, showing moderate conservative tendencies, while Washington DC is known for its strong liberal pulse. This distinction might reflect on local policies and social attitudes you'll experience. Moreover, both cities show a richness in religious diversity, yet the community you engage with may present different levels of religious visibility or activity. Embracing these differences could enrich your understanding and appreciation of your new home.

Irvine vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Irvine, CA to Washington DC, DC brings many changes, especially when considering the traffic and transportation options . This comparison aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like between these two cities.

ComparisonIrvineWashington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

While Irvine boasts shorter average commute times and slightly less congestion, its public transit system is not as robust as Washington DC's, making it more challenging to navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, Washington DC offers a more extensive public transit system, including the Metro, buses, and bike-share programs, allowing for a car-free lifestyle. This stark difference in public transit availability underscores the contrasting urban planning and lifestyle between the two cities. As you prepare to make the move, consider these aspects carefully, especially if you depend on public transportation for your daily commute.

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