Best Oakland to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Oakland to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,846 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 Oakland 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.
Best Oakland to Washington DC Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Oakland to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,846 miles from Oakland, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,201 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Washington DC move is roughly $10,160. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,816 | 300 ft³ | 9.39 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,201 | 450 ft³ | 9.34 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,965 | 750 ft³ | 9.29 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,160 | 1100 ft³ | 9.24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,698 | 1600 ft³ | 9.19 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,446 | 1800 ft³ | 9.14 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Washington DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Bookstore Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
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.
Oakland vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can feel overwhelming, especially when you're leaving a city you know well for one that's new to you. To help bridge that gap, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Washington DC, DC . By comparing familiar neighborhoods with their closest equivalents in your new city, we aim to make the transition smoother and more familiar.
| Oakland | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Georgetown | Historic charm, upscale shopping |
| Montclair | Cleveland Park | Residential, green spaces |
| Piedmont Avenue | Dupont Circle | Trendy, vibrant nightlife |
| Temescal | Columbia Heights | Diverse, foodie haven |
| Jack London Square | Navy Yard | Waterfront dining, modern |
| Grand Lake | Adams Morgan | Eclectic shops, nightlife |
| Lake Merritt | Capitol Hill | Historic, community-centric |
| West Oakland | Shaw | Gentrifying, rich history |
| Uptown | Logan Circle | Artsy, high energy |
| North Oakland | Petworth | Residential, burgeoning scene |
In exploring these comparisons further, you'll find the vibrant culture and rich history in both cities reflected through their neighborhoods. For instance, Georgetown, similar to Rockridge, offers a blend of historic charm with upscale shopping venues like those found on College Avenue. Meanwhile, the residential and peaceful Cleveland Park mirrors Montclair's green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere, offering a respite from city life while still being conveniently located. Food enthusiasts moving from Temescal will find Columbia Heights a thrilling culinary destination, with a variety of dining options that mirror the foodie haven they’re accustomed to. The waterfront dining and modern amenities of Navy Yard share a lively parallel with Jack London Square, providing an ideal setting for those who enjoy scenic views alongside their urban lifestyle. Each of these neighborhoods, whether in Oakland or Washington DC, boasts unique parks, restaurants, and sights that offer a seamless transition for anyone making the move.
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 Oakland to Washington DC
Moving across the country is a significant life event that encompasses both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Washington DC, DC . By examining the pros and cons through concise charts , you're equipped to weigh both sides carefully.
Oakland, CA- Higher cost of living
- Lesser public transportation options
- Earthquake risk
- Limited government job opportunities
Washington DC, DC- Rich historical landmarks
- Robust public transit
- No earthquake risk
- Abundant government jobs
Washington DC, DC- Harsher winters
- Less tech industry presence
- Smaller food scene
- Less outdoor diversity
Oakland, CA- Mild winters
- Strong tech job market
- Diverse food scene
- Outdoor activities
Those moving from Oakland to Washington DC will find themselves exchanging the mild winters of the West Coast for the potent chill of East Coast winters, potentially near iconic sights such as the Lincoln Memorial or the paths of the National Mall. However, this move also means trading in Oakland's rich, diverse food scene, celebrated in places like Temescal Alley, for the burgeoning yet distinct culinary landscape of DC, including historic eateries like Ben's Chili Bowl. While the Bay Area's outdoor lifestyle, supported by sites like Lake Merritt, may see a change, Washington DC counters with its own lush escapes, such as Rock Creek Park. The transition brings the excitement of exploring dense historical contexts, unlocking a wealth of government career pathways unavailable in Oakland, and reveling in DC's efficient public transit system, making navigation through the city’s monumental heart easier.
Oakland vs. Washington DC Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Washington DC, highlighting how food is an integral part of local culture and what it's like to live in each area. This comparison aims to equip you with a better understanding of the food scene in your new home.
| Oakland | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Brisket | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Trucks Various |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Seitan Sandwiches |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the vibrant street food scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Temescal and Fruitvale, is renowned for its variety, including tantalizing tacos that showcase the city's rich cultural diversity. On the other hand, Washington DC boasts a lively food scene with an abundance of food trucks across the city, especially in areas like Capitol Hill and Dupont Circle, offering a wide range of cuisines that cater to every palate. Moreover, iconic restaurants such as Rose's Luxury and Zaytinya in DC provide an unforgettable dining experience that reflects the city's sophisticated taste and diversity.
Oakland vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a daunting process, but finding new favorite places to eat can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Oakland to Washington DC aims to ease your move by matching top eateries in your current hometown with similar spots in your future city.
| Oakland | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Pineapple and Pearls | Both offer a refined dining experience with tasting menus |
| Shakewell | Zaytinya | Shareable Mediterranean plates resonate with Shakewell’s tapas style |
| Homeroom | Stellina Pizzeria | Comfort food with a modern take, known for mac 'n' cheese and innovative pizzas |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Ben's Chili Bowl | Unique local flavors, famous for chicken and waffles vs chili dogs |
| Pizzaiolo | 2 Amys | Neapolitan pizzas that emphasize quality ingredients and traditional techniques |
| Belcampo | Le Diplomate | High-quality meats with a focus on sustainable farming, in a brasserie setting |
| Cholita Linda | Oyamel Cocina Mexicana | Authentic Latin American street food, known for tacos and ceviches |
| Donut Savant | District Doughnut | Artisanal doughnuts with a focus on quality and creativity |
| The Cook and Her Farmer | Hank’s Oyster Bar | Both offer fresh, sustainably sourced seafood with a casual vibe |
| Mua | Busboys and Poets | Eclectic menus in artsy, inclusive spaces with a vibrant atmosphere |
When exploring the culinary offerings of a new city, it’s comforting to find places that echo the flavors and experiences of your former haunts. For instance, Pizzaiolo's dedication to the craft of Neapolitan pizza finds its counterpart in Washington DC's 2 Amys, where the passion for simple, high-quality ingredients shines through in each slice. Similarly, the lively and inclusive atmosphere of Busboys and Poets in DC reflects the eclectic vibe of Oakland's Mua, making it the perfect spot for those seeking a dynamic dining environment with diverse menus. These pairings not only offer a taste of home but also introduce you to the unique flavors and communities of your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Oakland, CA and Washington DC, DC will help you grasp the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. Make an informed decision on where your next home should be.
| Comparison | Oakland | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Craftsman | Row houses and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Yard Space | Location, Historic Charm |
In the comparison between Oakland and Washington DC, several points stand out. The median home price is significantly higher in Oakland, reflecting its proximity to the tech hubs of Silicon Valley and San Francisco. However, Washington DC offers a denser urban environment that ranks higher in walkability and bikeability, emphasizing its commitment to accessible city living. The architectural styles also highlight the historical backgrounds of each city with Oakland's Victorian and Craftsman homes contrasted against DC's iconic Row houses and Federal-style buildings. Both cities boast a vibrant urban lifestyle, but DC’s slightly higher rank reflects its vast array of cultural institutions, historical landmarks, and bustling urban centers.
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.
Oakland vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Oakland, CA to Washington DC, it's essential to understand how the weather contrasts between your current city and your new home. This comparison aids in preparing for different seasonal changes, temperature fluctuations, and knowing what clothing and household items you'll need to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Oakland, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Blizzards, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Oakland offers a more consistent temperature range with mild winters and warm summers, Washington DC presents a more dynamic climate with hot, humid summers and chilly winters that see considerable snowfall. Moving from the dry climate of Oakland to the humidity of DC can be a big adjustment, especially in the summer months. Additionally, DC's higher rainfall and snowfall levels require more versatile wardrobe and home preparations to comfortably manage the varied seasonal changes. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more quickly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Washington DC
When planning a move, it's critical to grasp how your financial landscape will transform. This comparison sheds light on money and finance between Oakland, CA and Washington DC, DC , helping you navigate the economic differences you'll encounter. Understanding these variations is key to a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Oakland | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3% | 8.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.74% | 0.56% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Oakland to Washington DC, you'll notice differences in the economic landscape that could affect your daily life. For instance, while the average household income is higher in DC, suggesting more affluent living conditions, this is somewhat balanced by a high cost of living index, though it's notably less than Oakland's. You'll also experience a slightly lower state income tax rate in Washington DC, which might offer some financial relief. Interestingly, the shift in dominant industries—from tech-heavy in Oakland to government and professional services in Washington DC—could influence your career opportunities. Moreover, understanding the differences in sales tax and property tax rates can aid in budget planning for your new home in the nation's capital.
Oakland vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating comes with its share of cultural and environmental shifts. This quick comparison offers an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, aimed to provide you with a better understanding of the community environment you're moving into. This is a comparison of the politics between Oakland & Washington DC , offering insights into what you might expect in your new home.
| Oakland | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean strongly Democrat | Lean heavily Democrat |
| Local Politics | Progressive, with a focus on social issues | Highly politically engaged, with national implications |
| Religion | Diverse; Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Jewish communities | Diverse; large Christian and Jewish communities, among others |
The political landscape in both Oakland and Washington DC leans heavily towards the Democrat side, but you'll find that local politics in DC can often feel amplified due to the city's national political significance. This unique aspect of DC's political environment means you'll be living in a place where local decisions can have broader implications, making political engagement an integral part of the city's culture. On the religious front, both cities boast a rich diversity, catering to a wide range of faiths and beliefs, contributing to the cities' inclusive and welcoming vibe. Whether you're attending services at the local churches in Oakland or participating in the vibrant community activities at a place of worship in Washington DC, you'll find a community that matches your spiritual needs.
Oakland vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can significantly change your daily commute. Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison focuses on the traffic and transportation options between Oakland and Washington DC to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like.
| Comparison | Oakland | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29.3 | 34.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Highly feasible |
In both cities, public transit is a viable option for your daily commute, but they vary significantly in how they are utilized and the experience they offer. In Oakland, while you can potentially get by without a car, the city's public transportation system, though decent, may not cover all areas comprehensively, making car ownership for some a necessity rather than a choice. In contrast, Washington DC boasts a higher public transit rating, thanks to the extensive reach of the WMATA services, including the Metro and Bus networks, making it easier and more efficient to navigate the city without a car. This higher accessibility and convenience highlight Washington DC’s infrastructure built around a robust public transportation system, contrasting with Oakland’s blend of urban and suburban spread that can limit transit options in certain areas.
Additional Resources
Oakland Moving Services
Popular Oakland to DC Routes
Popular Moving Resources
