Best Washington DC to Tucson Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Tucson and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,274 mile move from DC to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Washington DC to Tucson 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 Bookstore Movers), 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 Tucson. 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 Tucson Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.43 | 9.39 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Moving Buddies Tucson AZ | 9.05 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Get Your Move On, LLC | 9.03 | 8.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Tucson
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,274 miles from Washington DC, DC to Tucson, AZ will cost on average $3,715 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Tucson move is roughly $8,971. 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 | $2,492 | 300 ft³ | 8.31 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,715 | 450 ft³ | 8.26 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,154 | 750 ft³ | 8.21 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,971 | 1100 ft³ | 8.16 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,969 | 1600 ft³ | 8.11 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,500 | 1800 ft³ | 8.06 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tucson to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Tucson 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) |
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) |
Moving Buddies Tucson AZ
5502 E 25th St
Tucson, AZ, 85711
About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ
Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3531262 / 1542042 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2022) |
Get Your Move On, LLC
1430 E Hadley St # 110
Phoenix, AZ, 85034
About Get Your Move On, LLC
This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1885055 / 990813 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 350,000 (2023) |
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. Tucson Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To make this transition smoother, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Tucson, AZ to help you find a new neighborhood reminiscent of home. By comparing popular neighborhoods from Washington DC with similar areas in Tucson, you'll get a feel for your new surroundings even before you arrive.
| Washington DC | Tucson | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | West University | Historic, vibrant community |
| Capitol Hill | Armory Park | Historic homes, community-centric |
| Georgetown | El Presidio | Historic charm, upscale shopping |
| Adams Morgan | Fourth Avenue | Diverse, nightlife and dining |
| Columbia Heights | Samos | Family-friendly, vibrant local scene |
| Logan Circle | Reid Park | Artsy, with a big park nearby |
| Navy Yard | Menlo Park | Modern, with industrial roots |
| Shaw | Dunbar Spring | Historic, rapidly evolving |
| NoMa | Barrio Viejo | Vibrant arts scene, historic |
| Woodley Park | Catalina Vista | Quiet, upscale residential |
For those making the move from Washington DC's lively neighborhoods to the sunny expanses of Tucson, AZ, you'll find many similarities that will make you feel right at home. For example, if you've enjoyed the historic and sophisticated air of Georgetown, with its cobblestone streets and high-end boutiques like Georgetown, you'll appreciate the charm of El Presidio in Tucson. Here, you'll find historic adobe homes and landmarks like the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, alongside upscale shops. Alternatively, if the vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options of Adams Morgan have been your go-to, the Fourth Avenue district in Tucson offers a similar eclectic mix of eateries, boutiques, and bars, centered around Historic Fourth Avenue, ensuring the transition to your new city is as seamless as it is exciting.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Tucson
Moving can be a significant life change, deserving of a thorough examination of the positives and negatives associated with such a decision. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection on the transition from Washington, DC to Tucson, AZ , highlighting both the benefits and challenges. By comparing the pros and cons directly, you can make a well-informed decision about your relocation.
Washington DC, DC- High Living Costs
- Heavy Traffic
- Harsh Winters
- Stressful City Life
Tucson, AZ- Lower Living Costs
- Less Traffic
- Sunnier Days
- Relaxed Pace
Tucson, AZ- Smaller Arts Scene
- Fewer Cultural Institutions
- Car Dependence
- More Low-Key
Washington DC, DC- Diverse Culture
- Plethora of Museums
- Robust Public Transit
- Vibrant Nightlife
Moving from the bustling city life of Washington, DC, to the more laid-back Tucson, AZ, can offer a much-desired change in pace. For instance, Tucson's cost of living is significantly lower, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle without stretching your budget too thin. In terms of leisure and lifestyle, although Tucson may have a smaller arts scene compared to DC's plethora of museums and cultural institutions, it offers its unique charm with local treasures like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Saguaro National Park. These spots provide residents with a close connection to nature and a rich, local culture that's truly unparalleled. Furthermore, Tucson's relaxed pace of life, combined with its sunny weather, makes it an attractive choice for those looking to escape the harsh winters and stressful city life of the nation's capital.
Washington DC vs. Tucson Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Tucson will enlighten you on the food scene pivotal to the culture and lifestyle in these cities. Whether you're savoring the last bites of your current locale or anticipating the flavors of your new home, this guide will prep your palate accordingly.
| Washington DC | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-smoke | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo sauce with chicken wings | Carne asada |
| Most popular street food item | Food trucks’ multicultural offerings | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan soul food | Vegan Mexican dishes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Washington DC, the vibrant food scene is characterized by its international variety, best represented through its abundance of food trucks. Venture into neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Shaw, and you'll find culinary delights ranging from Ethiopian cuisine to the city's iconic half-smoke at establishments such as Ben's Chili Bowl. Conversely, Tucson celebrates its rich Mexican heritage through dishes like the Sonoran Hot Dog you can enjoy at El Guero Canelo. The city's desert landscape is intertwined with its cuisine, offering a unique blend of flavors and vegan options that showcase local ingredients. Whether roaming the historic Fourth Avenue or exploring South Tucson, you’re bound to discover tantalizing dishes that tell the story of the city’s diversity and culinary creativity.
Washington DC vs. Tucson Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Tucson, AZ, will guide you in discovering your next go-to eatery, using familiar favorites as benchmarks. Dive into this culinary map designed to seamlessly transition your palate from the heart of the nation to the soul of the Southwest.
| Washington DC | Tucson | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Tito & Pep | European influences with a desert twist |
| Rose’s Luxury | Penca | Creative, upscale takes on traditional cuisine |
| Zaytinya | Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink | Fusion of Mediterranean flavors |
| Ben’s Chili Bowl | El Güero Canelo | Iconic for its unique Sonoran hot dogs |
| Fiola Mare | Kingfisher | Fresh seafood with an imaginative menu |
| Bad Saint | Senae Thai Bistro | Authentic and innovative Thai cuisine |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Maynards Market & Kitchen | Farm-to-table Americana |
| The Dabney | Agustin Kitchen | A focus on local sourcing and seasonal dishes |
| Thip Khao | Char's Thai Restaurant | Known for its spicy and authentic flavors |
| José Andrés’ China Poblano | Boca Tacos y Tequila | A modern take on traditional Latin dishes |
Each restaurant on this list offers a unique dining experience that reflects the heart and soul of its city. For instance, Le Diplomate in Washington DC is known for its French bistro fare, which finds a companion in Tucson's Tito & Pep, where European influences meet Southwest flavors. Likewise, fans of the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl will find solace in El Güero Canelo's Sonoran hot dogs, a local favorite that embodies Tucson's unique culinary identity. From the waterfront dining of Fiola Mare to the fresh catches at Kingfisher, you'll uncover a seamless transition of culinary delights that will make your new city feel like home. Every restaurant listed provides not just a meal, but a gateway to understanding the local culture, offering you a taste of the community one plate at a time.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Tucson Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Washington DC and Tucson, AZ compare in terms of housing can help you make a well-informed decision. This comparison looks at costs, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Victorian | Sonoran and Territorial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to metro, historic charm | Mountain views, outdoor living |
The housing markets in Washington DC and Tucson offer unique advantages depending on what you're looking for. Washington DC's higher housing costs reflect its urban lifestyle and proximity to major government and cultural landmarks, with a strong emphasis on historic homes that offer federal and Victorian charm. On the other hand, Tucson provides a more affordable option, with homes that embrace the natural beauty of the area, incorporating Sonoran and Territorial styles. The city's lower walkability and urban lifestyle scores are balanced by its stunning mountain views and emphasis on outdoor living, making it an appealing option for those seeking a connection to nature and a more laid-back lifestyle.
Washington DC vs. Tucson Weather Considerations
When considering moving from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. Washington DC and Tucson weather variances highlight how the climate will change. This comparison serves to prepare you for what to expect, whether it's more sunshine, less humidity, or different temperatures.
Washington DC, DC
Tucson, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Tucson, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Tucson, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Tucson, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Winter Storms | Wildfires, Flash Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Washington DC to Tucson means adapting to hotter summers and milder winters, with Tucson offering significantly more days of sunshine and lower levels of humidity. This transition could be a welcome change for those weary of the humid summers and cold winters in the capital. Additionally, the air quality in Tucson is generally better than in Washington DC, which could be beneficial for people with respiratory issues. However, it's essential to prepare for Tucson's unique natural disaster risks, such as wildfires and flash floods, as well as the higher UV index which calls for increased sun protection.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Tucson
If you're considering a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city compared to where you're coming from is crucial. This comparison between Washington DC and Tucson, AZ breaks down key economic factors that could impact your wallet. By looking at metrics from average income to tax rates, you'll get a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $50,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 96.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0 - 8.95 | 2.59 - 4.50 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.55 | 0.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 8.6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education & Health | Education, Aerospace/Defense, Tourism |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When you move from Washington DC to Tucson, the most noticeable difference will be the average household income and the overall cost of living. Your dollar goes further in Tucson, thanks to its lower cost of living index and generally more affordable lifestyle. However, it's important to note the difference in state income tax, which could affect your take-home pay differently than expected. Additionally, both cities offer unique job markets focused on their top industries, which could sway your employment opportunities based on your career. Finally, while Tucson shows a higher poverty rate, the lower cost of living might balance out overall financial well-being compared to Washington DC's higher earning potential but significantly higher expenses.
Washington DC vs. Tucson Political & Religious Comparison
If you're considering a change of scenery from Washington DC to Tucson, AZ, it's valuable to know how these cities compare on a deeper level. This quick look provides insights into the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Tucson and the religious landscapes of their populations, giving you a sense of the community you're moving into.
| Washington DC | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Significant federal influence | Local issues predominate |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Diverse; with an emphasis on Christian communities More Info |
In Washington DC, the political scene is heavily influenced by national affairs, given its role as the nation's capital. This tends to make the city's political makeup overwhelmingly Democratic. Tucson, while also leaning Democratic, places a higher emphasis on local and state issues, allowing for a slightly more varied political climate. The religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse, with Washington DC hosting a wide array of faiths and Tucson having a strong presence of Christian communities. As you move, you'll find that Tucson offers a blend of political and religious perspectives that might differ from Washington DC but also contains similarities, especially in embracing diversity.
Washington DC vs. Tucson Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can drastically change your daily routines, especially when it concerns your commute. In this guide, we present a comparison to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Washington DC & Tucson . This overview will help you adjust your expectations and plan accordingly.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.4 | 25.3 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some effort | Challenging |
While Washington DC boasts a highly developed public transit system, including the Metro and bus services, making it relatively easier to navigate the city without a car, Tucson, AZ, operates on a smaller scale when it comes to public transportation. Tucson offers the Sun Tran bus service and the Sun Link streetcar, which are convenient but cover less area, making a car more necessary for daily commutes and errands. Washington's higher traffic congestion rating reflects its denser population and narrower streets, a contrast to Tucson's more laid-back traffic flow. Adjusting your commute in Tucson might mean relying more on a personal vehicle, but you'll likely experience less traffic compared to Washington DC.
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