Best Washington DC to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,748 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Washington DC to Irvine 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 $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Irvine. 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 Irvine Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
2Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
3Ap Pro Moving Llc9.439.39ActiveContact
4Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
5Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Irvine

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,748 miles from Washington DC, DC to Irvine, CA will cost on average $4,118 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Irvine move is roughly $9,956. 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$2,760300 ft³9.20
1 Bedroom$4,118450 ft³9.15
2 Bedrooms$6,826750 ft³9.10
3 Bedrooms$9,9561100 ft³9.05
4 Bedrooms$14,4021600 ft³9.00
5+ Bedrooms$16,1121800 ft³8.95
*Please note: These DC to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & California. 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 CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Irvine 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
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
3
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,965+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
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. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to ease that transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Irvine, CA . By using neighborhoods you're familiar with as a baseline, you can better understand what to expect and find a new community that suits your lifestyle.

Washington DCIrvineHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleWoodbridgeVibrant community life
GeorgetownTurtle RockUpscale, historic vibes
Adams MorganUniversity ParkDiverse and cultural
Capitol HillQuail HillQuiet, family-friendly
Logan CircleNorthwoodMix of residential and amenities
Columbia HeightsWestparkCultural diversity, vibrant
U Street CorridorWoodburyActive nightlife and dining
Navy YardPortola SpringsModern living, waterfront
ShawGreat ParkArtsy with a young vibe
PetworthStonegateCommunity-oriented, peaceful

For those moving from Washington DC to Irvine, the transition can incorporate familiar comforts with new experiences. For example, if you’ve enjoyed the historic and lively atmosphere of Georgetown, Turtle Rock in Irvine offers a similar upscale feel with its beautiful homes and green landscapes. Both neighborhoods boast excellent schools and a wide array of parks and recreational activities, perfect for families or anyone seeking a blend of luxury and outdoor living. Meanwhile, Adams Morgan's rich cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife find a counterpart in University Park, where a range of dining options, community events, and open spaces encourage an engaging lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling through the scenic trails of Turtle Rock or indulging in international cuisine at University Park, each destination has unique offerings that can make your new city feel like home.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Irvine

  • Hike at Irvine Regional Park
  • Explore the Orange County Great Park
  • Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
  • Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
  • Study at Irvine Public Libraries
  • Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
  • Relax at Newport Beach

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Irvine

Moving from one city to another brings with it both challenges and opportunities. In this guide, we offer a comparison of living between Washington DC, DC and Irvine, CA to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Through our charts, we aim to give you a straightforward look at what you'll gain and what you'll need to adjust to in your new home.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Humid summers
  • Political centric
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Lower housing costs
  • Planned city layout
  • Mild climate
  • Diverse economy
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Fewer historic sites
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Car-dependent
  • Less diversity in food
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Public transportation
  • Diverse dining options

Moving from Washington DC to Irvine, you'll say goodbye to the hustle and bustle of a heavily politicized environment, and hello to a more laid-back, planned community atmosphere. Irvine's housing market, while still not cheap, offers relatively lower costs compared to the high prices of DC living. This could mean the difference between renting an apartment or affording a home with a little more space. While you might miss the rich history and cultural landmarks like the Smithsonians or the vibrancy of U Street, Irvine welcomes you with open arms into its mild climate, less traffic, and an impressive array of neighborhood parks and family-friendly activities. Not to be overlooked, the Irvine's parks system, with its meticulously maintained spaces, provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Although the food scene is different, you'll still find gems like Diamond Jamboree - a unique culinary hotspot offering a diverse range of international cuisines.

Washington DC vs. Irvine Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in the tapestry of local culture, offering a unique taste of what life is like in any given area. To help you better understand the culinary transition, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Irvine . This comparison will give you a flavor of what to expect as you make your move.

Washington DCIrvine
Most iconic local food itemHalf-smokeTacos
Most popular meat dishFried ChickenBBQ Ribs
Most popular street food itemPupusasBanh Mi
Most popular vegan foodImpossible BurgerAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Benesetta Table
  • Founding Farmers
  • Rasika
  • HiroNori Ramen
  • Urban Seoul
  • Pho Saigon Pearl
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Washington DC, the half-smoke is a must-try, often associated with Ben's Chili Bowl, a landmark eatery. The city's various neighborhoods, like Shaw and Capitol Hill, offer a dynamic food scene ranging from street food to upscale dining experiences. Moving to Irvine, you'll notice a shift towards lighter, California-inspired fare, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Irvine's culinary scene, particularly in areas like the Irvine Spectrum, is a mix of international cuisines, showcasing dishes like banh mi and tacos, reflecting the city's diverse population. Whether dining out at HiroNori Ramen for its famed noodle bowls or experimenting with the myriad of vegan options, Irvine offers a dynamic palette that caters to health-conscious eaters and food enthusiasts alike.

Washington DC vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison

Choosing the right meal can make any place feel more like home. This comparison is designed to bridge culinary worlds, offering a taste of familiarity as you transition from one vibrant city to another. Washington DC restaurant favorites to their Irvine counterparts, providing a seamless culinary crossover for those making the move.

Washington DCIrvineWhat You'll Love
MétierTerraArtful presentations and a focus on fine ingredients
ZaytinyaCaspian RestaurantRich flavors and a cultural dining experience
RasikaClay OvenAuthentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist
BenesseHiro Nori RamenExceptional craftsmanship in noodles and broth
Le DiplomateMoulinFrench authenticity with a casual, yet refined atmosphere
Central Michel RichardPaul Martin’s American GrillClassic American dishes with a gourmet touch
Blue Duck TavernSeasons 52Seasonally inspired menu with an emphasis on fresh ingredients
Fiola MareThe DockSeafood-centric dining with immersive views
2 AmysNorth ItaliaHandcrafted pizzas and pastas with a modern approach
Little SerowBamboo BistroSoutheast Asian cuisine with a focus on freshness and tradition

For enthusiasts of exquisite dining and cultural gastronomy, this guide proves invaluable. Terra captures the essence of Métier's artful presentations, incorporating fine, responsibly-sourced ingredients into its culinary masterpieces, while Caspian Restaurant offers a vibrant echo of Zaytinya's celebrated flavors. Meanwhile, Hiro Nori Ramen resonates with Benesse's dedication to excellence, crafting a sublime noodle experience. It's comforting to discover that whether you're in the mood for the sophisticated French air of Le Diplomate or the intricate tapestry of Indian flavors reminiscent of Rasika, Irvine extends a warm invitation to explore these tastes anew. This guide not only eases the transition from Washington DC to Irvine but enriches the culinary journey that awaits.

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Washington DC vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, evaluating the real estate landscapes of Washington DC and Irvine is crucial. This comparison sheds light on the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle facets between the two cities, providing essential insights for potential movers.

ComparisonWashington DCIrvine
Typical Architecture StyleFederal, VictorianSpanish Revival, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to landmarks, historic detailSafety, family-friendly neighborhoods

While Washington DC boasts a more urban lifestyle with higher walkability due to its dense, historical neighborhoods, Irvine offers a suburban haven with an emphasis on safety and family-friendly environments, reflected in its real estate listings. Irvine's higher median home price aligns with its reputation for safety and upscale living, whereas Washington DC offers architectural diversity with its blend of Federal and Victorian homes. Both cities display a good level of bikeability, underscoring their commitment to green transportation, though they cater to different lifestyle preferences and priorities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.

2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.

3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.

Washington DC vs. Irvine Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather might change. Comparing Washington DC and Irvine, you'll find significant differences that could impact your daily life and seasonal preparations. Our charts highlight the distinct climate features you should expect, helping you adjust to your new environment more smoothly.

Summer icon
88°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

83°F / 64°F

Irvine, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

68°F / 47°F

Irvine, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8"

Washington DC, DC

13"

Irvine, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4"

Washington DC, DC

0"

Irvine, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCIrvine
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, Nor'eastersEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Washington DC to Irvine means bidding farewell to snowy winters and welcoming milder temperatures year-round. The significant increase in sunshine days in Irvine compared to Washington DC will likely brighten your days, affecting everything from your mood to your daily activities. However, it's also important to prepare for the different types of natural disasters that are more common in California, such as earthquakes and wildfires. Adjusting to these changes will be an important part of making Irvine feel like home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, evaluating the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Washington DC and Irvine, CA, focuses on several key economic aspects to help you understand how your finances might be affected. It is essential to consider these differences to make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonWashington DCIrvine
Avg. Household Income$90,088$105,774
Cost of Living Index140.1136.4
State Income Tax4.0% - 8.95%1.0% - 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax0.56%0.72%
Avg. Sales Tax6.0%7.75%
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional services, EducationTechnology, Education, Health Services
AffluenceHighVery High
PovertySignificantLower
HomelessnessHighModerate

When moving from Washington DC to Irvine, CA, you'll encounter some notable financial changes. Irvine, with an average household income higher than Washington DC's, also boasts a significantly more substantial cost of living, reflected in its index. This disparity highlights the importance of evaluating your salary relative to living expenses in your new city. While both locations feature a wide range of state income tax rates, California's maximum is significantly higher. However, Irvine offers a very high level of affluence and lower poverty rates compared to Washington DC, contributing to a different socio-economic environment. Understanding these dynamics can provide a clearer expectation of what life in Irvine may look like financially.

Washington DC vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Irvine offers a quick glance at how the political and religious makeup of residents in these cities might differ, giving you an idea of the community environment you're moving into. This side-by-side snapshot provides insights into the local climate in terms of political affiliation, local governance, and religious practices.

Washington DCIrvine
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticModerately Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on national and international affairs due to the city's roleEmphasis on local issues such as development, education, and public services
ReligionDiverse, with established Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and other faith communitiesDiverse, with a notable presence of Christian and Asian-American religious communities

Washington DC, being the nation's capital, has a unique political climate heavily influenced by national and international affairs, whereas Irvine focuses more on local governance, including development, education, and public services. This can create a different community atmosphere, with DC residents often engaged in broader political discussions and Irvine's community more centered around local and regional issues. Religion in both cities reflects diversity, but Irvine exhibits a particular growth in Asian-American religious communities, contributing to its multicultural environment. This comparison hints at a shift you might experience in the dialogues, priorities, and cultural fabric of your new home.

Washington DC vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Irvine CA brings about significant changes, especially when it comes to daily commutes and managing traffic. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, we've created a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Irvine.

ComparisonWashington DCIrvine
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.424.6
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

When examining commuting in Washington DC and Irvine, you'll find stark contrasts in traffic congestion, average commute times, and the reliance on public transit. In Washington DC, robust public transit options like the Metro allow many residents to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. This accessibility is reflected in its high public transit score and the relatively higher traffic congestion rating due to the dense urban environment. In contrast, Irvine offers a more car-dependent lifestyle; despite lower traffic congestion levels, the public transit options are not as comprehensive, making a personal vehicle almost a necessity for daily commutes. This difference significantly affects how one would plan their daily movements and manage time in each city.

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