Best Washington DC to Tempe Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Washington DC to Tempe and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,374 mile move from DC to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 43 Washington DC to Tempe 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 Tempe. 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 Washington DC to Tempe Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | 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 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.43 | 9.39 | Active | Contact |
5 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
Cost to Move from Washington DC to Tempe
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,374 miles from Washington DC, DC to Tempe, AZ will cost on average $3,800 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Tempe move is roughly $9,179. 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 | $2,548 | 300 ft³ | 8.49 |
1 Bedroom | $3,800 | 450 ft³ | 8.44 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,296 | 750 ft³ | 8.39 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,179 | 1100 ft³ | 8.34 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,271 | 1600 ft³ | 8.29 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,840 | 1800 ft³ | 8.24 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tempe to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Tempe Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (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) |

Ap Pro Moving Llc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |

New Beginnings Moving Solutions
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |

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.
Washington DC vs. Tempe Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can feel like navigating a new world. To help, we offer a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Tempe, AZ, providing a familiar basis for understanding your new surroundings. By comparing popular neighborhoods from your current city to similar ones in your new city, we aim to make your transition smoother.
Washington DC | Tempe | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Capitol Hill | Maple-Ash | Historic, diverse community vibes |
Dupont Circle | Mitchell Park East | Vibrant nightlife and artistic feel |
Georgetown | Daley Park | Upscale shopping, rich history |
Adams Morgan | Riverside | Diverse, lively entertainment options |
Columbia Heights | Escalante | Strong community, cultural diversity |
Logan Circle | Holdeman | Trendy, growing dining scene |
Navy Yard | Tempe Gardens | Waterfront activities, modern living |
Shaw | Gililland | Rich cultural scene, historic architecture |
H Street Corridor | Optimist Park NW | Booming with arts and events |
Foggy Bottom | University Heights | Educational hub, peaceful living |
If you're drawn to the vibrant nightlife and arts scene of Dupont Circle, you'll find a similar vibe in Mitchell Park East, known for its live music and local galleries. For those who appreciate the historic and upscale shopping experiences of Georgetown, Daley Park offers a comparable charm with boutique shops and a glimpse into the area's rich history. For fans of the waterfront lifestyle and modern amenities of Navy Yard, Tempe Gardens provides an excellent alternative with its selection of waterfront dining options and recreational activities. This transition not just connects you with similar neighborhoods but also encourages the exploration of unique local parks, restaurants, and sights, making your move exciting and full of discovery.

Things to Do in Tempe
- Explore Tempe History Museum exhibits.
- Walk around Tempe Town Lake.
- Enjoy live music at Marquee Theatre.
- Hike Papago Park trails.
- Visit Desert Botanical Garden.
- Shop at Tempe Marketplace.
- Experience SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Tempe
Moving across the country can be an adventure filled with mixed emotions and considerations. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison between living in Washington DC, DC, and relocating to Tempe, AZ. Through a series of charts, we aim to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad aspects of moving from Washington DC to Tempe, helping you make an informed decision about your potential new home.
- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Humid summers
- Political focus
- Smaller green spaces
- Lower living costs
- Lighter traffic
- Dry climate
- Diverse industries
- Larger parks
- Fewer historical sites
- Car dependent
- Less diverse cuisine
- Smaller global population
- Newer developments
- Cultural landmarks
- Public transportation
- Global dining
- International community
- Historical neighborhoods
The lifestyle and environment in Tempe, AZ, offer a significant change compared to Washington, DC, especially in terms of living costs and general climate. Tempe's lower cost of living allows for a more relaxed lifestyle, where your dollar stretches further, whether that's in real estate or dining out. Although Tempe might not boast the historical landmarks and the vast international community found in DC, it offers its charm through local spots like Tempe History Museum, Tempe Beach Park, and vibrant venues such as Marquee Theatre. The city is also home to Arizona State University, which injects a youthful energy and fosters diverse industries. For those considering the shift, Tempe presents an appealing blend of affordability, outdoor activities, and growing job opportunities, albeit with a touch of nostalgia for DC's rich cultural tapestry and globally influenced lifestyle.
Washington DC vs. Tempe Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital when relocating, as food deeply reflects the cultural vibes and lifestyle of an area. In this section, we're delving into a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Tempe to help you get acquainted with the food scene of your new home.
Washington DC | Tempe | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Sonoran Hot Dog |
Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Wings | Carne Asada |
Most popular street food item | Pupusas | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Impossible Burger | Jackfruit Tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Washington DC, diverse and vibrant food scenes thrive in neighborhoods like Shaw and Capitol Hill, where you can savor a delicious Half-Smoke or Mumbo Sauce Wings. Meanwhile, Tempe's culinary landscape offers a rich array of flavors, especially in areas such as Mill Avenue District, where Sonoran Hot Dogs and Jackfruit Tacos are local favorites. These cities host iconic restaurants like Ben's Chili Bowl in DC and Casa Reynoso in Tempe, serving up dishes that are deeply woven into the city's fabric. Whether you're craving innovative vegan options or exploring extensive food truck selections, both cities promise to cater to your palate.
Washington DC vs. Tempe Restaurant Comparison
Relocating to a new city can be daunting, especially when leaving behind the familiar flavors of home. This comprehensive restaurant comparison guide between Washington DC and Tempe, AZ serves to ease your transition by guiding you to your new favorite dining spots using the familiarity of your current favorites. Whether you're in search of high-end dining experiences or cozy, casual bites, this comparison will help satiate your appetite for comfort in your new city.
Washington DC | Tempe | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Rasika | Curry Corner | Offers innovative Indian cuisine reminiscent of Rasika’s flavors. |
Rose's Luxury | Cotton & Copper | Artisanal American food that encapsulates Rose's Luxury cozy, upscale vibe. |
Le Diplomate | House of Tricks | Classic, fine dining with a French-inspired menu echoing Le Diplomate. |
Zaytinya | Alibi | Captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors similar to those at Zaytinya. |
Blue Duck Tavern | Caffe Boa | Offers farm-to-table dining with a menu that parallels Blue Duck Tavern's approach. |
Fiola Mare | Top of the Rock Restaurant | High-end seafood with breathtaking views mirroring Fiola Mare’s ambiance. |
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | The Stockyards | Classic, upscale dining with a focus on steak and seafood like Joe’s. |
Bad Saint | Adobo Dragon | Offers a fusion of Asian cuisines that echoes the innovative spirit of Bad Saint. |
2 Amys Neapolitan Pizzeria | Spinato's Pizzeria | Delivers authentic, hand-tossed Neapolitan pizzas similar to 2 Amys. |
Ben's Chili Bowl | Ted's Hot Dogs | A local spot with iconic status in Tempe, offering experiences akin to Ben’s Chili Bowl atmosphere. |
When you begin to explore the dining scene in Tempe, you'll discover places like Curry Corner and Cotton & Copper, each with its unique charm that mirrors the beloved spots of Washington DC. Curry Corner will entice your palate with innovative Indian cuisine that rivals the depth of flavor found at Rasika, while Cotton & Copper crafts artisanal American dishes in an ambiance that echoes the warm, inviting atmosphere of Rose's Luxury. Similarly, Spinato's Pizzeria stands out as a go-to for those seeking Neapolitan pizzas in Tempe, paying homage to the artisanal, handcrafted approach of 2 Amys in DC. This guidance aims not just to replace, but to enrich your culinary journey as you adjust to your new home.

Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Tempe Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between Washington DC and Tempe is essential. This comparison will help you understand the differences in housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more, making your transition smoother.
Comparison | Washington DC | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Federal | Spanish Mission and Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic landmarks, Proximity to government buildings | University proximity, Outdoor activities |
Delving deeper into the real estate contrasts, Washington DC’s higher median home prices reflect its dense urban environment and historical significance, commanding a premium for properties with close ties to historic landmarks and government locales. On the other hand, Tempe offers a different appeal with its Spanish Mission and Ranch-style homes, highlighting a blend of traditional charm and modernity suitable for various lifestyles. Tempe's proximity to Arizona State University also plays a pivotal role in its real estate market, appealing especially to academics and students. The urban lifestyle scores suggest that while both cities offer vibrant community living, Washington DC edges out with its rich cultural tapestry and plethora of entertainment options, whereas Tempe presents a more relaxed vibe with an emphasis on outdoor activities.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tempe, AZ
1. Mitchell Park East: With its expansive green spaces and proximity to the Tempe Dog Park, this neighborhood ensures your pets have plenty of room to play and socialize.
2. Meyer Park: Known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and the namesake Meyer Park, this area offers a relaxing environment for both you and your pets to enjoy leisurely walks.
3. Tempe Gardens: Boasting a tight-knit community vibe and several pet-friendly cafes nearby, Tempe Gardens encourages you to bond with your pets while enjoying the local culture and cuisine.
Washington DC vs. Tempe Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Washington DC to Tempe, AZ, it's crucial to know how the weather in these areas will impact your life. Understanding the differences in climate will help you prepare for your new environment, ensuring Washington DC and Tempe's weather conditions are part of your planning. This comparison aims to highlight what you can expect in terms of temperature, humidity, and other weather-related factors.
Washington DC, DC
Tempe, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Tempe, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Tempe, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Tempe, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Washington DC | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Varies (Moderate to Unhealthy) |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Heatwaves, Dust Storms |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Tempe
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to assess how your financial situation might shift. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture by providing insights into money and finance when moving from Washington DC to Tempe, AZ .
Comparison | Washington DC | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $68,662 |
Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 101.2 |
State Income Tax | 4.0 - 8.95 | 2.59 - 4.50 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 0.62 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6.00 | 8.10 |
Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
In moving from Washington DC to Tempe, you'll find significant changes financially. Despite the lower average household income in Tempe, the overall cost of living is considerably less, allowing many expenses to align better with earnings. The state income tax in Arizona is generally lower than in DC, potentially resulting in more disposable income. However, note that while property taxes are relatively similar, the sales tax rate in Tempe is higher. Lastly, Tempe's economy is buoyed by technology and manufacturing, differing from DC's government and services-driven economy, promising diverse job opportunities.
Washington DC vs. Tempe Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Washington DC to Tempe, AZ, it's insightful to know who your neighbors will be. This quick comparison gives you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents. This is a comparison of the politics and religion between Washington DC & Tempe , to help you understand the community landscape you're moving into.
Washington DC | Tempe | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
Local Politics | Liberal Policies | Liberal-Leaning Policies |
Religion | Diverse Religious Practices | Mix of Religious and Non-Religious |
While Washington DC is known for its heavily Democratic leaning and liberal policies, moving to Tempe will introduce you to a community with a somewhat more balanced political landscape, though still moderately Democratic. Tempe's politics are liberal-leaning, mirroring a trend seen in many urban areas, yet it may present a less intense political atmosphere compared to the nation's capital. The religious makeup in both cities showcases diversity, yet in Tempe, you might find a broader blend of religious and non-religious perspectives. Whether you're actively engaged in politics and religion or simply curious about your new community's cultural fabric, these dynamics will play a role in your adaptation to life in Tempe.
Washington DC vs. Tempe Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Tempe, AZ requires understanding the significant differences you'll encounter in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Tempe is designed to help you easily adapt to your new environment.
Comparison | Washington DC | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 21.4 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
Moving from the bustling streets of Washington DC to the more laid-back vibes of Tempe, AZ, you'll notice a considerable difference in your daily commutes. Washington DC boasts an extensive public transit system, including the DC Metro, making it easier for residents to navigate the city without a car. Meanwhile, Tempe, while increasing its public transportation options with services such as the Valley Metro, still relies heavily on cars due to its more spread-out nature. The lower traffic congestion in Tempe reflects its less dense population compared to Washington DC, but it also highlights the city's dependence on personal vehicles for getting around efficiently.



Additional Resources
Washington DC Moving Services
Popular Washington DC to Arizona Routes
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