Best Sunnyvale to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Sunnyvale to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,882 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale to Washington DC Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
2Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
3D&L Movers9.349.36ActiveContact
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
5White Red Moving & Storage9.089.34Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Sunnyvale to Washington DC

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,882 miles from Sunnyvale, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,232 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Sunnyvale to Washington DC move is roughly $10,235. 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$2,836300 ft³9.45
1 Bedroom$4,232450 ft³9.40
2 Bedrooms$7,016750 ft³9.35
3 Bedrooms$10,2351100 ft³9.30
4 Bedrooms$14,8071600 ft³9.25
5+ Bedrooms$16,5681800 ft³9.20
*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 Sunnyvale guide.

Compare the 5 Best Sunnyvale 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
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
White Red Moving & Storage Logo

White Red Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.08/10
based on 550+ data points

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About White Red Moving & Storage

Based in Sunnyvale, California, White Red Moving & Storage has been providing local and long-distance moving services since 2010. As a...

Services

  • Local Moving Service
  • Long Distance Moving Service
  • Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3707629 / 1299933

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
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.

Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can often feel like starting a novel without any familiarity with the characters or setting. To ease this transition, we've orchestrated a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Sunnyvale, CA & Washington DC, DC. This guide aims to help you find your new favorite spots, comparing well-loved neighborhoods in Sunnyvale with their counterparts in Washington DC, drawing parallels that will make you feel right at home.

SunnyvaleWashington DCHow They're Similar
Sunnyvale DowntownDupont CircleVibrant nightlife and dining
SnailAdams MorganEclectic mix, artsy vibe
BirdlandCleveland ParkFamily-friendly, lush parks
CherryhillShawHistoric, diverse community
LakewoodGeorgetownUpscale, waterfront charm
PonderosaCapitol HillPolitically charged, historic
Heritage DistrictLogan CircleTrendy, rich history
Raynor ParkPalisadesQuiet, scenic views
Ortega ParkPetworthGrowing diversity, community feel
Serra ParkBloomingdaleNeighborhood camaraderie, historic

If you appreciate the bustling evenings and diverse culinary options in Sunnyvale Downtown, you'll find Dupont Circle's vibrant nightlife and abundance of dining options equally appealing. Just as Cherryhill offers a slice of historic charm within Sunnyvale, Shaw in Washington DC presents a tapestry of historic landmarks and a dynamic, culturally diverse community. For those who enjoy the family-oriented and serene atmosphere of Birdland, Cleveland Park offers an equally pleasant environment with its green spaces and family-friendly amenities. Lakewood's upscale and tranquil ambiance closely mirrors that of Georgetown, known for its fashionable boutiques, historic homes, and scenic waterfront walks. By drawing these comparisons, you can visualize your new life in Washington DC, pinpoint where you might want to explore first, or even decide on which neighborhood to call your new home.

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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.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Sunnyvale to Washington DC

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting decision. To aid in this process, we're presenting two charts designed to offer an honest reflection of the advantages and disadvantages of relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Washington DC, DC . This comparison aims to illuminate both the appealing aspects and the potential drawbacks of such a move, helping you weigh your options with a balanced perspective.

CONs
PROs
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • High living costs
  • Earthquake risks
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less diversity
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Historical landmarks
  • Public transportation options
  • Strong job market
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Humid summers
  • Higher crime rates
  • Costly housing
  • Political buzz
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Mild weather
  • Tech job hub
  • Outdoor activities
  • Vibrant community

Moving from Sunnyvale, CA, known for its sunny skies and tech-centered vibe, to Washington DC, a city steeped in American history and political life, presents a notable shift in lifestyle. In Washington DC, you'll trade the laid-back, suburban feel of Sunnyvale for a bustling metropolitan atmosphere, complete with national monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and a thriving cultural scene including the Kennedy Center. Although the humidity in DC can be a stark contrast to Sunnyvale's mild climate, the plethora of green spaces such as Rock Creek Park offers an urban escape. Despite the higher living and housing costs in both cities, Washington DC's diverse and dynamic nature provides expansive opportunities for career growth, especially in sectors beyond technology, and a rich tapestry of neighborhoods from Capitol Hill to Georgetown.

Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Food Guide

When moving from one place to another, diving into the local cuisine is a step towards understanding the culture of your new home. Here, we're laying out a comparison of the local cuisine between Sunnyvale & Washington DC to give you a taste of what each city has to offer. This way, you can be better informed about the food scene in your new locale.

SunnyvaleWashington DC
Most iconic local food itemGarlic FriesHalf-Smoke
Most popular meat dishTandoori ChickenFried Chicken and Mumbo Sauce
Most popular street food itemTaco TrucksJumbo Slice Pizza
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastImpossible Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Dishdash
  • Falafel STOP
  • Muracci's 2 Japanese Curry & Grill
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • Zaytinya
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In comparing the local cuisine between Sunnyvale and Washington DC, iconic eats such as Sunnyvale's Garlic Fries and DC's Half-Smoke give each city a unique flavor profile. For those headed to Washington DC, the renowned Ben's Chili Bowl offers a taste of the city's culinary heritage, while newer spots like Rosa's Thai Cafe exemplify the diverse food scene. The city's love for food is evident in its booming street food scene, with food trucks and jumbo slice pizza joints dotting the landscape. Moreover, DC's higher vegan friendliness score reflects a vibrant community for plant-based eaters, offering a wide range of options from the Impossible Burger and beyond. Whether you're exploring the historical neighborhood of Capitol Hill or venturing into the bustling streets downtown, Washington DC welcomes food lovers with open arms and diverse palates.

Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but finding great places to eat can make anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison, from Sunnyvale to Washington DC, will guide you towards your new favorite spots, based on the dining experiences you've cherished. Whether it’s a high-end meal or a casual eatery you’re after, you're covered.

SunnyvaleWashington DCWhat You'll Love
DishdashLebanese TavernaOffers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine reminiscent of Dishdash's flavors.
Lilly Mac'sThe DublinerA taste of Irish hospitality and similar hearty pub fare in the heart of DC.
Philz CoffeeCompass CoffeeBoth are local favorites for a unique coffee blend and community feel.
Falafel STOPAmsterdam FalafelshopFor a quick, delicious falafel reminiscent of the Sunnyvale spot.
Murphy's LawPenn SocialWhile more of a game and social spot, it has the lively atmosphere of Murphy's.
Madras CaféRasikaOffers a modern take on Indian cuisine, paralleling Madras Café's authentic South Indian dishes.
Seti's TableZaytinyaBrings a blend of Mediterranean flavors that match the adventurous spirit of Seti's Table.
ChelokababiMoby Dick House of KabobKnown for Persian cuisine that mirrors the tastes offered at Chelokababi.
SomisomiIce Cream JubileeWhile not a direct match, it's a beloved spot for unique and flavorful ice cream concoctions.
Armadillo Willy's BBQHill Country Barbecue MarketOffers a taste of Texas BBQ that rivals the smoky flavors of Armadillo Willy's.

If you're missing Dishdash's Middle Eastern delicacies, Lebanese Taverna will captivate your taste buds with its authentic Lebanese cuisine, similarly offering a rich array of flavors and a cozy atmosphere. For coffee aficionados, Compass Coffee in Washington DC provides a unique blend of beans roasted in-house, echoing Philz Coffee's commitment to quality and community-oriented spaces. Lastly, for those who crave the vibrant South Indian flavors of Madras Café, Rasika, with its modern twist on traditional Indian dishes, promises an unforgettable dining experience that mirrors the authenticity and warmth of your Sunnyvale favorite.

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Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how Sunnyvale, CA, and Washington DC, DC compare in terms of housing is essential for making an informed decision about relocating. This comparison includes cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

ComparisonSunnyvaleWashington DC
Typical Architecture StyleModern and RanchFederal and Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to Tech Companies, Open Floor PlansHistoric Details, Access to Public Transportation

When moving from Sunnyvale, CA to Washington DC, you’ll notice several key differences in the housing market. Sunnyvale's real estate listings often highlight the city's proximity to major tech companies and feature modern, open floor plans. In contrast, Washington DC properties frequently boast historic details and excellent public transportation access. The urban lifestyle in DC is rated higher, largely thanks to its rich history, diverse culture, and more walkable and bike-friendly streets. Meanwhile, Sunnyvale offers a quieter, more suburban environment, albeit with its unique charm and high cost of living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to understand how the weather will impact your lifestyle. Our comparison aims to highlight the differences in weather conditions between Sunnyvale and Washington DC, giving you a better idea of what to expect. Adjusting to a new climate can be challenging, but knowing these differences will help you prepare for your move.

Summer icon
81°F / 57°F

Sunnyvale, CA

89°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 39°F

Sunnyvale, CA

47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Sunnyvale, CA

40

Washington DC, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Sunnyvale, CA

15

Washington DC, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSunnyvaleWashington DC
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesSevere Storms, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

As you prepare for your move from Sunnyvale to Washington DC, consider the significant weather transitions. Sunnyvale's mild winters and dry months starkly contrast with Washington DC's humid summers and chilly, snow-prone winters. With nearly 60 fewer sunny days and a significant increase in both annual rainfall and snowfall, it’s important to adjust your wardrobe and prepare your home for the varying elements. Understanding and preparing for these changes in early seasons can make your transition smoother and help you enjoy what each unique climate has to offer.

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

When planning a move from Sunnyvale, CA to Washington DC, DC, it’s vital to grasp how your finances might change in the process. Comparing key economic factors will help you prepare for the differences in living costs and understand the financial landscape you're moving into.

ComparisonSunnyvaleWashington DC
Avg. Household Income$156,059$90,088
Cost of Living Index136.4140.1
State Income Tax13.3 max8.95 max
Avg. Property Tax0.720.56
Avg. Sales Tax9.256.00
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Manufacturing, RetailGovernment, Professional Services, Tourism
AffluenceVery affluentAffluent
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerHigher

Understanding the financial disparities when moving from Sunnyvale to Washington DC is crucial for a smooth transition. Sunnyvale boasts a substantially higher average household income, which aligns with its higher cost of living index. Despite the potentially higher income taxes in California, Sunnyvale's technology-driven economy might offer more lucrative job opportunities compared to Washington DC's government and service-oriented economy. The differences in sales and property taxes between the two locations further reflect the unique economic landscapes you’ll encounter. This overview will guide you in adjusting your budget and expectations before making the move.

Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in the cities you're transitioning between: Sunnyvale, CA & Washington DC, DC . Understanding these dynamics can help in anticipating the cultural and societal environment you're moving into.

SunnyvaleWashington DC
Political Make-upLiberalLiberal
Local PoliticsDemocrat-leaningDemocrat-heavy
ReligionDiverse, with no single dominant affiliationDiverse, Christianity is prominent

Moving from Sunnyvale, CA to Washington DC, DC, you'll find yourself transitioning between two notably liberal areas, though Washington DC presents an even more Democrat-heavy landscape. This implies a generally progressive social environment in both cities, with local politics that predominantly support Democratic candidates. Religion, while diverse in both locations, shows a bit more prominence of Christianity in Washington DC. Nonetheless, both cities celebrate a rich tapestry of religious beliefs and practices, reflecting their multicultural makeup. This understanding can ease your transition, helping you to connect with and appreciate the nuanced social fabric of your new home.

Sunnyvale vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison between Sunnyvale & Washington DC aims to equip you with a clear understanding of what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like, facilitating a smoother transition.

ComparisonSunnyvaleWashington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingYes, easier

While Sunnyvale offers a relatively relaxed commute with an average time of 25 minutes, Washington DC's commute is slightly longer, averaging at 30 minutes. Traffic congestion in DC is also a notch higher than in Sunnyvale, reflective of its denser urban environment. However, Washington DC more than makes up for this with its superior public transit system, rated higher in availability and convenience than Sunnyvale's. This makes living in DC without a car significantly easier compared to Sunnyvale, where having a vehicle can often feel necessary for daily activities.

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