Best San Francisco to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,849 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 San Francisco to Washington DC moving companies and more than 15,000 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,849 miles from San Francisco, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,204 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Washington DC move is roughly $10,166. 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 | $2,818 | 300 ft³ | 9.39 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,204 | 450 ft³ | 9.34 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,969 | 750 ft³ | 9.29 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,166 | 1100 ft³ | 9.24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,708 | 1600 ft³ | 9.19 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,456 | 1800 ft³ | 9.14 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Washington DC, DC. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Washington DC that shares the vibe and community feel of your old stomping grounds in San Francisco.
| San Francisco | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Mission | Adams Morgan | Diverse, vibrant nightlife |
| Nob Hill | Dupont Circle | Historic, upscale living |
| SoMa | Navy Yard | Industrial-chic, waterfront dining |
| Hayes Valley | Logan Circle | Trendy shops, eateries |
| Marina District | Georgetown | Waterfront access, shopping |
| North Beach | Capitol Hill | Historic, lively community |
| Pacific Heights | Kalorama | Exclusive, grand homes |
| Haight-Ashbury | U Street Corridor | Bohemian, rich history |
| Castro | Shaw | LGBTQ-friendly, cultural hub |
| Russian Hill | Cleveland Park | Quiet, green spaces |
For those who enjoyed the bustling, diverse nightlife and artistic vibe of The Mission, Adams Morgan will feel like home with its array of bars, clubs, and global cuisine. If the waterfront aspects and chic shopping of the Marina District drew you in, Georgetown's scenic waterfront and upscale shopping options offer a similar charm. Meanwhile, lovers of the historic and lively cultural scene in North Beach will find Capitol Hill's blend of significant landmarks and vibrant community satisfying. Dupont Circle mirrors Nob Hill's prestige with its historic homes and cultured atmosphere, making it an ideal locale for those who appreciate upscale living with a rich history. Lastly, for those who cherished the bohemian, historical richness of Haight-Ashbury, the U Street Corridor provides a comparable experience with its unique mix of music, nightlight, and cultural history.
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 San Francisco to Washington DC
Moving from one city to another is a big step that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Washington DC, DC. By understanding both sides, you can make a more informed decision about your move.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Dense traffic
- Frequent fog
- Smaller tech scene
- Fewer historical sites
Washington DC, DC- More affordable living
- Improved public transit
- More sunny days
- Larger political scene
- Rich in history
Washington DC, DC- Less waterfront access
- Smaller tech industry
- Less diversity
- Fewer outdoor options
- More traditional
San Francisco, CA- Stunning bay views
- Vibrant tech hub
- Cultural diversity
- Abundant outdoor activities
- Rich in innovation
Moving from San Francisco to Washington DC, you'll trade the iconic Golden Gate views and the cutting-edge Silicon Valley scene for the majestic Lincoln Memorial and a front-row seat to national politics. While San Francisco's SFMOMA and tech meetups showcase innovation and art, Washington DC counters with its own cultural heavyweights like the Smithsonian and political landmarks. You might miss the restaurants lining the Mission District, but DC's U Street and Georgetown offer their own charming eateries and vibrant nightlife. The transition might mean saying goodbye to foggy city mornings, but it welcomes the potential for evening jogs by the Potomac River, history-filled walks through the National Mall, and a lower cost of living to boost. Each city boasts its unique pros and cons, making this relocation a shift not just in scenery, but in lifestyle and opportunities.
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Washington DC aims to shine a light on the diverse culinary scenes of both cities. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and understanding what each location offers can greatly enhance your experience as you relocate.
| San Francisco | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Mumbo Sauce with Chicken Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Jumbo Slice Pizza |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Chickpea Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Francisco, the legendary Mission District is the birthplace of the famed Mission Burrito, a must-try for anyone visiting or moving to the city. Similarly, Tadich Grill, known as California's oldest restaurant, epitomizes the city's rich culinary history with its seafood-focused menu. On the other hand, Washington DC's vibrant U Street Corridor offers an authentic taste of the city's iconic half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, a landmark eatery frequented by locals and tourists alike. Both cities boast a diverse food scene, from street food to high-end dining, catering to a variety of taste preferences and dietary requirements.
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Finding your go-to dining spots is a crucial part of making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Washington DC aims to help you find your new culinary favorites by drawing parallels with places you already love. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide is your gastronomic compass for the transition.
| San Francisco | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Le Diplomate | Both boast bustling, brasserie-style vibes and iconic roast chickens |
| Tartine Bakery | Baked & Wired | Artisan bread and quirky pastries reign supreme at both |
| Nopalito | Oyamel Cocina Mexicana | Authentic Mexican dishes with a focus on sustainable, organic ingredients |
| La Taqueria | El Sol Restaurante & Tequileria | Renowned for their tacos and authentic street food vibe |
| State Bird Provisions | Bad Saint | Both offer a unique, elevated dining experience with eclectic dishes |
| The Slanted Door | Thip Khao | Modern takes on traditional Asian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients |
| Gary Danko | Plume | High-end dining with meticulous attention to detail and a tasting menu |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Fiola Mare | Seafood-centric menus with fresh, high-quality ingredients |
| Foreign Cinema | Iron Gate | Enchanting settings with a perfect blend of atmosphere and inventive dishes |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Dolcezza Gelato | A focus on handcrafted, small-batch treats with local ingredients |
For those missing the bustling, brasserie-like atmosphere of Zuni Café in San Francisco, Le Diplomate in Washington DC offers a slice of Parisian charm alongside their equally famous roast chicken. Artisan bread lovers will appreciate the transition from Tartine Bakery to Baked & Wired, where the passion for quirky pastries and quality baked goods mirrors that of San Francisco's iconic bakery. The vibrant, authentic Mexican flavors of Nopalito find a east coast counterpart in Oyamel Cocina Mexicana, known for its dedication to sustainability and organic ingredients. For innovative dining experiences that push the envelope, the transition from State Bird Provisions to Bad Saint is seamless, showcasing the diverse and dynamic culinary landscapes of both cities.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between San Francisco, CA, and Washington DC, DC highlights key housing aspects to consider, helping you make an informed decision on where to settle next.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Edwardian | Colonial and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Tech-ready | Historic details, Green spaces |
Comparing San Francisco and Washington DC reveals notable distinctions in their real estate markets. San Francisco, known for its iconic Victorian and Edwardian homes, boasts higher median home prices and rent, reflecting its status as one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. Meanwhile, Washington DC, with its rich history reflected in Colonial and Federal architecture, offers a slightly more affordable living situation, yet still prides itself on a vibrant urban lifestyle. Both cities score high in walkability, making them appealing to those who prefer to navigate city life on foot. However, each city has its own charm and appeal, dependent on individual preferences for scenery, historical allure, and access to green spaces.
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.
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather will differ from what you're used to is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences between San Francisco and Washington DC, to better prepare you for what awaits. From average temperatures to seasonal allergies, getting familiar with these aspects can make your transition smoother.
San Francisco, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Storms, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both San Francisco and Washington DC offer vibrant urban experiences, their climates are markedly different. San Francisco's mild summers and cool winters contrast sharply with Washington DC's hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Notably, DC experiences fewer days of sunshine but a higher average annual UV index. For those with allergies, DC's broader range of pollens might require adjustment. These climatic differences can impact lifestyle choices, including clothing, outdoor activities, and even health considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Washington DC
When considering a move from one city to another, comparing financial aspects is crucial. This comparison will help you understand how the cost of living and financial conditions in San Francisco contrast with those in Washington DC, thereby guiding your budgeting and financial planning for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 8.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Government, Professional Services, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate to high |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Significant |
While both San Francisco and Washington DC are notable for their high average household incomes, San Francisco takes a significant lead. However, this is counterbalanced by its much higher cost of living index and sales tax. San Francisco's formidable tech industry contributes to its higher average income but also drives up living costs. In contrast, Washington DC's government and professional services sectors offer slightly lower, but still substantial incomes without the extreme living costs seen in San Francisco. Both cities face significant challenges with homelessness, reflecting broader social issues that transcend mere economic metrics.
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from San Francisco, CA to Washington DC, DC, understanding the communities you're transitioning between is crucial. This quick overview aims to provide a snapshot, focusing on a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Francisco & Washington DC , to help you get acquainted with the local color and community ethos of your new city.
| San Francisco | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Highly engaged in social issues | Focus on federal and international policy |
| Religion | Diverse; notable presence of non-religious residents | Diverse; higher rates of religious affiliation |
Though both cities share a broadly liberal and Democratic leaning, the nature of their political engagement differs significantly. San Francisco's local politics are characteristically vibrant, with a strong focus on social justice, environmental concerns, and progressive policies. This is complemented by a notable presence of non-religious individuals and diverse faith communities, including everything from Buddhist centers to Jewish synagogues. In contrast, Washington DC's political scene is deeply entwined with federal and international affairs, reflecting its role as the nation’s capital. The city's religious landscape is more traditional, with a higher rate of religious affiliation and historical churches that have played significant roles in national history. Understanding these nuances will help ease your transition and enrich your experience in your new home.
San Francisco vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you consider moving from San Francisco, CA to Washington DC, DC, comparing the daily commute and traffic is essential for a smooth transition. This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Washington DC, highlighting key differences to help you adapt to your new city.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Yes |
In both San Francisco and Washington DC, you can enjoy the convenience of robust public transportation systems, reducing the need for a car. San Francisco's BART and MUNI services offer extensive coverage across the city and beyond, while Washington DC's Metro and bus services provide efficient transit within the city and to surrounding areas. Despite San Francisco's slightly higher traffic congestion, its public transit system scores higher for availability. However, both cities actively support biking and walking, making them very accessible without a car.
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