Best San Jose to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Jose to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,880 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 San Jose 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 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 San Jose 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 Jose to Washington DC Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,880 miles from San Jose, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,230 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Washington DC move is roughly $10,231. 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 | $2,835 | 300 ft³ | 9.45 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,230 | 450 ft³ | 9.40 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,013 | 750 ft³ | 9.35 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,231 | 1100 ft³ | 9.30 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,801 | 1600 ft³ | 9.25 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,561 | 1800 ft³ | 9.20 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Washington DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
San Carlos, CA, 94070
About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184868 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (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 Jose vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new neighborhood options. To ease the transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA and Washington DC, DC. By aligning similar neighborhoods from each city, we aim to help you find a new community that feels like home.
| San Jose | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | Cleveland Park | Family-friendly, tree-lined streets |
| Downtown San Jose | Penn Quarter | Vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions |
| Almaden Valley | Palisades | Scenic views, quiet, upscale living |
| Los Gatos | Georgetown | Historic homes, upscale shopping |
| Rose Garden | Dupont Circle | Historic district, gardens, vibrant community |
| Japantown | Adams Morgan | Cultural diversity, rich history |
| Silver Creek | Wesley Heights | Exclusive, family-friendly neighborhood |
| Evergreen | Chevy Chase | Green spaces, family-oriented community |
| Berryessa | Capitol Hill | Historic charm, community-focused |
| Santana Row | Shaw | Trendy shops, dining, and nightlife |
In comparing neighborhoods, it's important to look beyond just names and basic similarities. For example, the tree-lined, family-friendly atmosphere of Willow Glen finds its counterpart in Washington DC's Cleveland Park, known for its picturesque streets and close-knit community vibe. Similarly, if you love the bustling, culturally rich environment of Downtown San Jose, Penn Quarter in Washington DC offers an exciting blend of entertainment, dining, and museums, including the renowned Smithsonian American Art Museum. Fans of Almaden Valley's scenic views and tranquil living will appreciate Palisades with its sweeping views of the Potomac and outdoor activities. Whether you relish the historic charm and upscale shopping of Los Gatos or the verdant, spacious parks of Evergreen, transitioning to neighborhoods like Georgetown or Chevy Chase will provide a seamless experience, blending the familiar with new discoveries and opportunities for exploration.
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 Jose to Washington DC
Moving from San Jose, CA to Washington DC, DC offers both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision.
San Jose, CA- High living costs
- Seismic risk
- Heavy traffic
- Tech job focus
Washington DC, DC- Rich history
- Diverse culture
- Public transport options
- Government career opportunities
Washington DC, DC- Hot, humid summers
- High competition for jobs
- Smaller green spaces
- Overall higher taxes
San Jose, CA- Mild weather
- Tech innovation hub
- Outdoor activities
- High salary potential
Moving to Washington D.C. from San Jose opens the door to exploring rich historical sites and diverse cultural experiences. In D.C., you'll find iconic locations such as the National Mall, brimming with monuments and museums that offer free admission. Unlike the tech-centric job market in San Jose, Washington D.C. presents a myriad of career opportunities in the government sector. While San Jose is notorious for its heavy traffic, D.C.'s well-established public transport system, including the Metrorail and Metrobus, offers a more efficient way to navigate the city. Neighborhood gems in D.C. like the vibrant restaurants and shops in Adams Morgan and the serene green spaces of Rock Creek Park contrast with San Jose's tech campuses and Silicon Valley's hustle.
San Jose vs. Washington DC Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and gives a taste of what life is like in different areas. In this guide, we'll explore and compare the local cuisine between San Jose & Washington DC to help you get a better feel for the food scene in your new city.
| San Jose | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Phở | Half-smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | American-style Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Phở | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Jose and Washington DC both offer vibrant food scenes that reflect their diverse cultures. San Jose, with its proximity to fresh produce from California's farmlands, leans heavily into fresh, farm-to-table experiences, particularly visible in its vegan offerings and the variety of tacos served as street food. Notably, San Jose's Vietnamese community ensures an authentic and rich presence of Vietnamese cuisine, with Phở being a standout dish. Meanwhile, Washington DC boasts a combination of historical and international influences, with the Half-smoke serving as a quintessential local dish, and a strong presence of food trucks adding to the city's dynamic food landscape. Both cities score high in foodie scene ratings, but DC slightly edges out with its abundance of vegan options and health-conscious eateries, reflecting its diverse and politically engaged population. To truly immerse yourself in DC's culinary culture, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Shaw are great places to explore, offering a plethora of dining options from historic establishments like Ben's Chili Bowl to modern eateries like Zaytinya.
San Jose vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your next favorite meal. To make your transition from San Jose to Washington DC smoother, we've compared popular San Jose restaurants to their Washington DC counterparts. Whether you're in search of high-end dining experiences or casual, budget-friendly bites, this guide aims to help you find a new culinary home away from home.
| San Jose | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Adega | Plume | Fine dining with a focus on presentation and flavor |
| La Foret Restaurant | Le Diplomate | Classic, upscale French dining experience |
| Santana Row | Union Market | A diverse offering of gourmet foods and casual eating spots |
| Original Joe's San Jose | The Hamilton | Classic American cuisine with a diverse menu |
| Manresa | Inn at Little Washington | Exquisite farm-to-table dining |
| Back A Yard | Sweet Home Cafe | Authentic and savory dishes celebrating American comfort food |
| Falafel Drive-In | Amsterdam Falafelshop | Known for falafel and casual Middle Eastern eats |
| Henry's Hi-Life | Hill Country Barbecue Market | Offers a taste of Texas-style BBQ |
| Dia de Pesca | Hank's Oyster Bar | Seafood-centric menu with a casual atmosphere |
| Bill’s Café | Founding Farmers | Known for their brunch and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients |
In comparing these culinary highlights, it's apparent that both San Jose and Washington DC offer diverse and rich dining experiences. Take, for instance, Adega in San Jose, known for its Portuguese cuisine and meticulously curated wine list, finds its match in DC's Plume, where the art of presentation and depth of flavor take center stage. Similarly, fans of the casual yet iconic Falafel Drive-In will rejoice in finding Amsterdam Falafelshop in Washington DC, where the focus on Middle Eastern cuisine offers a familiar taste. These comparisons are not just about finding a similar meal, but discovering places that resonate with the character and heart of each city's dining scene.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial consideration when relocating. Understanding how San Jose and Washington DC stack up against each other in terms of housing can greatly influence your decision. This comparison aims to shed light on aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | San Jose | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish | Victorian and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Outdoor spaces, tech upgrades | Historic details, proximity to metro |
Both San Jose and Washington DC offer unique living experiences highly influenced by their respective housing markets and cultural surroundings. San Jose's housing is marked by its blend of modern and Spanish architecture, catering to tech-savvy individuals with a preference for outdoor spaces and modern amenities. On the other hand, Washington DC's vibrant urban lifestyle is complemented by its Victorian and Federal architecture, attracting those in love with historic details and the convenience of metro proximity. The difference in median home prices and monthly rents reflects the distinct cost of living and real estate dynamics in each city. These factors combined with the walkability, bikeability, and overall urban lifestyle scores offer a comprehensive view of what life might look like in either city.
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 Jose vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning your move from San Jose to Washington DC, understanding the shift in climate you’ll experience is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the significant weather differences you can expect, facilitating a smoother transition to your new environment.
San Jose, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes, Blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Jose to Washington DC, you'll notice significant changes, especially in weather unpredictability, greater humidity in summer, and a notable shift in winter temperatures. DC's weather is characterized by more pronounced seasons, including hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, a stark contrast to San Jose's milder, more even climate. You'll need to adapt your wardrobe and possibly your lifestyle for the distinct seasons in Washington DC, including preparing for potential hurricanes and blizzards, unlike the earthquake considerations in California.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Washington DC
When considering a move from San Jose, CA to Washington DC, understanding the financial nuances between these two locations is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the cost of living, average incomes, tax rates, and economic environments in San Jose and Washington DC, providing a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | San Jose | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (max rate) | 8.95 (max rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | Very High | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | High |
Moving from San Jose to Washington DC will bring notable changes in your daily expenses and overall financial landscape. While the average household income is higher in San Jose, reflecting its thriving technology sector, the cost of living index significantly drops when moving to Washington DC, making it a less expensive option despite its high median income level. Tax rates, including state income and sales taxes, are generally lower in DC, potentially offering more disposable income. However, both cities face challenges with homelessness, a critical factor to consider when understanding the social environment you'll be moving into. This comparison guides you through adapting financially to your new home.
San Jose vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from San Jose, CA to Washington DC, DC offers an intriguing shift in the everyday environment, especially when considering the comparison of the politics between San Jose & Washington DC and the religious landscape. This quick comparison gives you a glance at what to expect from your new neighbors and community in these aspects.
| San Jose | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Technology-oriented policies | Federal government focus |
| Religion | Multicultural and diverse | Predominantly Christian, but diverse |
When moving from San Jose to Washington DC, you'll find both cities share a liberal political makeup, commonly voting for Democratic candidates. However, the local political scene in San Jose often revolves around technology and innovation due to its Silicon Valley location. In contrast, Washington DC’s politics are heavily influenced by the federal government and international relations. Religion in both cities reflects diversity, but San Jose showcases a broader multicultural religious landscape compared to the predominantly Christian backdrop of Washington DC. Exploring these new dynamics will offer you fascinating insights and opportunities for engagement in your new home.
San Jose vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
In this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Washington DC, we aim to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Discover how getting around in these cities differs, helping you adjust to your new life with ease.
| Comparison | San Jose | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 34.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Easier |
The differences in commute experiences between San Jose and Washington DC highlight the unique challenges and advantages of each city. San Jose, with an average commute time of 30 minutes and traffic congestion scored at 7 out of 10, often requires a car to navigate efficiently, making living without one difficult. On the other hand, Washington DC, even with a slightly longer average commute time, offers robust public transit options, scoring a 9 out of 10 on availability. This makes getting around without a car not only feasible but often easier, thanks to the city's extensive Metro system and other public transportation services. Considering these factors can significantly impact your daily routine and overall enjoyment of your new city.
Additional Resources
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