Best Washington DC to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,382 mile move from DC to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 Washington DC to Phoenix 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Phoenix. 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 Washington DC to Phoenix Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.759.64Authorized For HHGContact
2Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
3Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
4Ap Pro Moving Llc9.439.39ActiveContact
5New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.319.4Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Phoenix

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,382 miles from Washington DC, DC to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $3,807 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Phoenix move is roughly $9,196. 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$2,553300 ft³8.51
1 Bedroom$3,807450 ft³8.46
2 Bedrooms$6,307750 ft³8.41
3 Bedrooms$9,1961100 ft³8.36
4 Bedrooms$13,2951600 ft³8.31
5+ Bedrooms$14,8671800 ft³8.26
*Please note: These DC to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & Arizona. 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 DC to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Phoenix Movers

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.75/10
based on 2,279+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.43/10
based on 361+ data points

5021 Seminary Rd # 822

Alexandria, VA, 22311

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 991+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (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.

Washington DC vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings in Phoenix, AZ, using Washington DC, DC & Phoenix, AZ neighborhoods as a baseline. By comparing the most popular neighborhoods in Washington DC with their closest counterparts in Phoenix, you'll get a better sense of where you might feel most at home.

Washington DCPhoenixHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleArcadiaTrendy, historic homes
GeorgetownParadise ValleyAffluent, designer shops
Logan CircleCoronadoDiverse, vibrant art scene
Capitol HillEncanto-PalmcroftHistoric, political hub
Adams MorganRoosevelt RowEclectic, nightlife
Columbia HeightsWilloFamily-friendly, historic charm
Navy YardDowntown PhoenixUpcoming, waterfront activities
NoMaMidtownModern, business district
ShawCentral CityCultural, foodie heaven
PetworthNorth Central PhoenixQuiet, leafy suburbs

For those attracted to the eclectic and historic charm of Adams Morgan with its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene, Roosevelt Row in Phoenix offers a similar vibe, characterized by an equally eclectic mix of dining, shopping, and art. Noteworthy spots in Roosevelt Row include the Phoenix Art Museum and the Arizona Science Center, providing cultural enrichment alongside the area's bustling coffee shops and eateries. Likewise, enthusiasts of Dupont Circle's trendy atmosphere and historic homes will find a resonant spirit in Arcadia, known for its well-preserved ranch-style homes and lush, mature landscapes, along with upscale dining options such as Postino and La Grande Orange Grocery. These comparisons illuminate how, even far from DC, one can discover the essence of their favorite neighborhood in the heart of Phoenix.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Phoenix

Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Phoenix, AZ. By examining the pros and cons, you'll get a balanced view to help make your decision.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High Cost of Living
  • Humid Summers
  • Political Center
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Dense Population
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • More Affordable
  • Dry Climate
  • Less Political Pressure
  • Lighter Traffic
  • More Space
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Less Diverse
  • Car Dependent
  • Less Historic Depth
  • Quieter Nightlife
  • Less Political Access
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Public Transit System
  • Rich History
  • Vibrant Nightlife
  • Access to Politicians

Washington DC is a hub for culture and diversity, boasting a plethora of museums, historic sites like the Smithsonian Institution, and a vibrant culinary scene featuring anything from Ethiopian cuisine at Zenebech Restaurant to traditional American dishes at Founding Farmers. While Phoenix lacks the historical depth of DC, it offers its own attractions such as the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden and the vibrant art scene in the Roosevelt Row Arts District. The transition from DC’s bustling, somewhat congested environment to Phoenix’s spacious, more laid-back setting can be quite refreshing. The dry climate of Phoenix is also a welcome change for those seeking relief from DC’s humid summers. Nevertheless, this move does mean becoming more car-dependent, given Phoenix's less extensive public transit system compared to DC's Metro. Overall, each city offers a unique living experience catered to different lifestyles and preferences.

Washington DC vs. Phoenix Food Guide

When relocating, exploring the culinary landscape is a captivating way of immersing yourself in the local culture. Through this guide, we provide a comparative insight into what awaits your taste buds by highlighting the comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Phoenix . This knowledge will equip you with an understanding of the food scene in your new city.

Washington DCPhoenix
Most iconic local food itemHalf-SmokeSonoran Hot Dog
Most popular meat dishMumbo Sauce WingsCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemArepasTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegan Burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Zaytinya
  • Pizzicletta
  • Cornish Pasty Co.
  • Arizona Wilderness DTPHX
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Delving deeper into the cuisines, you'll find Washington DC's Ben's Chili Bowl as a cultural icon, serving the beloved Half-Smoke, a local specialty not to be missed. On the flip side, Phoenix shines with its unique Sonoran Hot Dog, a delightful twist found primarily in the bustling food scenes of neighborhoods like Downtown Phoenix. Health and fitness are highly regarded in both cities, with an array of options for the health-conscious eater, including vibrant food truck scenes that offer diverse culinary experiences. Whether you crave the comfort of a Vegan Burrito in Phoenix or the international flavors of an Arepa in DC, both cities cater to an eclectic palette with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and health.

Washington DC vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Washington DC to Phoenix, finding your new go-to spots for dining out is crucial for making a new city feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in both cities will act as your culinary compass, guiding you to your next favorite eatery that mirrors the flavors and ambiance you loved back in Washington DC.

Washington DCPhoenixWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateCoup Des TartesBoth offer French bistro classics in a charming setting
ZaytinyaFnbBoth specialize in inventive Mediterranean and local cuisine
RasikaMarigold MaisonBoth restaurants excel in contemporary Indian dishes
Ben's Chili BowlShort Leash Hot DogsBoth iconic, offering local flavors in casual settings
Fiola MareDifferent Pointe of ViewBoth provide upscale dining with stunning views
2 AmysPizzeria BiancoBoth are celebrated for their artisanal, wood-fired pizzas
Bad SaintKaiCreative and forward-thinking cuisine emphasizes local and indigenous ingredients
Old Ebbitt GrillDurant'sBoth are historic eateries with a classic American menu and a unique charm
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabSteak 44Both offer luxurious steak and seafood in an elegant, upscale setting
Guess Who's Coming to Seder?Chelsea's KitchenOffering unique dining experiences that cater to foodies looking for something different

If you're yearning for the vibrant flavors and spirited ambiance of Zaytinya's Mediterranean cuisine, Phoenix's Fnb will captivate your palate with its locally sourced and seasonally driven dishes. Similarly, transitioning from the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl to Short Leash Hot Dogs in Phoenix means you don't have to give up finding comfort in a casual and uniquely local eating experience. And for those special nights out, the transition from Fiola Mare in Washington DC to Phoenix's Different Pointe of View promises an equally memorable dining experience with breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine.

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Washington DC vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. It's crucial to understand how the housing markets of Washington DC and Phoenix compare to make an informed decision. This comparison covers cost, statistics, architecture, walkability, and more, highlighting the differences and similarities between these cities.

ComparisonWashington DCPhoenix
Typical Architecture StyleFederal and VictorianRanch and Pueblo Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHistoric details, proximity to metroSwimming pools, outdoor spaces

In depth, the discrepancy in housing costs between Washington DC and Phoenix is substantial. With the median home price in Washington DC significantly higher, the decision to move could be heavily influenced by your budget and the type of lifestyle you're seeking. Washington DC's architecture, deeply rooted in American history, contrasts with Phoenix's blend of modern and traditional Southwestern designs. Furthermore, the walkability and urban lifestyle scores highlight Washington DC as a more walkable and urban-centred city, fitting for those who prefer a city vibe without the need for a car. Conversely, Phoenix offers a more laid-back lifestyle, with its listings frequently boasting outdoor amenities catered towards its warmer climate, such as swimming pools. Considering these aspects can help tailor your move to suit your lifestyle preferences and needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ

1. Midtown Phoenix: Known for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly patios, your furry friends will love the welcoming atmosphere and Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub for a bite where pets are happily seen on the patio.

2. Arcadia: This neighborhood is a paradise for pets with spacious backyards and close proximity to Camelback Mountain for adventurous walks and hikes, making it perfect for active dogs.

3. Roosevelt Row: This artsy district not only welcomes pets in many galleries and cafes but also hosts pet-centric events like the annual Phoestivus market, making it an incredibly fun and engaging community for pet lovers.

Washington DC vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations

When relocating, it's essential to anticipate how your new environment contrasts with what you're accustomed to. This comparison between Washington DC and Phoenix will underline the weather differences to expect, preparing you for a smoother transition.

Summer icon
87/71

Washington DC, DC

105/83

Phoenix, AZ

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/30

Washington DC, DC

68/45

Phoenix, AZ

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.74

Washington DC, DC

8.03

Phoenix, AZ

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.5

Washington DC, DC

0

Phoenix, AZ

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCPhoenix
Air QualityModerateModerate to Poor
Natural DisastersHurricanes, SnowstormsHeatwaves, Dust Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Washington DC to Phoenix, you'll experience a dramatic shift in climate. Phoenix boasts nearly 100 more days of sunshine annually and significantly higher temperatures, particularly during summer. This marked change means you'll need to prepare for hotter summers and milder winters, alongside adapting your wardrobe and possibly your lifestyle to cope with the intense heat. Furthermore, the much lower annual rainfall in Phoenix compared to DC suggests a drier environment, influencing everything from outdoor activity planning to landscape gardening choices.

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

When planning a move, it's crucial to consider how your finances might shift. This comparison will highlight key monetary aspects, providing insights into what changes you might expect. Moving from Washington DC to Phoenix, AZ, grasp how aspects like cost of living, tax rates, and income will influence your financial health.

ComparisonWashington DCPhoenix
Avg. Household Income$90,088$68,435
Cost of Living Index140.1100.7
State Income Tax4.00 to 8.95%2.59 to 4.50%
Avg. Property Tax0.56%0.62%
Avg. Sales Tax6%8.6%
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Education, TechnologyManufacturing, Tourism, Technology
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Washington DC to Phoenix presents a notable adjustment in the cost of living and taxes. Not only is the average cost of living substantially lower in Phoenix (by almost a third compared to DC), but the state income tax also presents a lighter burden in Arizona. This could potentially offer you more discretionary income, despite the average household income being lower in Phoenix. The shift in primary industries suggests a transition from government and education-focused careers in DC to opportunities in manufacturing, tourism, and technology in Phoenix, reflecting a change in economic priorities and job opportunities that align with each city's economic profile.

Washington DC vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can bring about significant changes, not just in scenery but in the community you'll be joining. This quick comparison aims to provide an overview of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Washington DC & Phoenix , helping you understand the social fabric of your new home at a glance.

Washington DCPhoenix
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticMixed, with a slight Democratic lean
Local PoliticsHighly politically engaged, with national implicationsPolitically active with a focus on state and local issues
ReligionVaried, with a significant presence of Catholic and Islamic communitiesDiverse, strong Catholic and Islamic communities, and growing non-religious demographic

In terms of political engagement, you'll find that while Washington DC's residents often involve themselves in national politics, Phoenix's population tends to focus more on state and local issues. This difference can reflect the unique influence each city has on political discourse. The religious landscape in both cities showcases a rich diversity, but moving to Phoenix might introduce you to a more pronounced presence of non-religious individuals alongside its vibrant Catholic and Islamic communities, marking a contrast to Washington DC's equally varied but differently proportioned religious demographic.

Washington DC vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Phoenix? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Phoenix will help you better understand what to expect in terms of your daily commute and navigating the cities.

ComparisonWashington DCPhoenix
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.525.3
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, EasilyNo, Challenging

In Washington DC, you might find yourself relying heavily on the robust public transit system, which boasts an extensive network of buses and the Metro, making it easy to get around without a car. On the other hand, Phoenix’s public transit system, while improving, still has limitations in coverage and frequency, making a car almost essential for daily commuting and getting around the city efficiently. Traffic in Phoenix is generally lighter compared to the congestion often experienced in DC, which could result in a quicker, albeit car-dependent, commute. Adjusting to these differences will be key in making your move as smooth as possible.

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