Best Washington DC to Sacramento Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Sacramento and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,788 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Washington DC to Sacramento 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 Washington DC compared to Sacramento. 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 Sacramento 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 | Rickey's Gold Country Moving | 9.21 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Workhorse Moving Co. | 8.46 | 8.69 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Sacramento
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,788 miles from Washington DC, DC to Sacramento, CA will cost on average $4,152 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Sacramento move is roughly $10,040. 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 | $2,783 | 300 ft³ | 9.28 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,152 | 450 ft³ | 9.23 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,883 | 750 ft³ | 9.18 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,040 | 1100 ft³ | 9.13 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,523 | 1600 ft³ | 9.08 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,248 | 1800 ft³ | 9.03 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sacramento to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Sacramento 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) |
Rickey's Gold Country Moving
15887 Rattlesnake Rd
Grass Valley, CA, 95945
About Rickey's Gold Country Moving
Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3065202 / 1398360 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
Workhorse Moving Co.
West Sacramento, CA, 95691
About Workhorse Moving Co.
Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3369346 / 1080028 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10 (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. Sacramento Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To ease the transition, comparing neighborhoods from your current city to your future home can be incredibly helpful. This guide does just that, with a focus on a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Sacramento, CA . By identifying comparable neighborhoods, you can find a new community that feels familiar and suits your lifestyle.
| Washington DC | Sacramento | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Midtown Sacramento | Vibrant nightlife, diverse dining |
| Georgetown | East Sacramento | Historic homes, upscale shopping |
| Capitol Hill | Land Park | Family-friendly, historic sites |
| Adams Morgan | Oak Park | Cultural diversity, arts scene |
| Logan Circle | Curtis Park | Charming homes, tight-knit community |
| Columbia Heights | Tahoe Park | Diverse community, outdoor activities |
| Shaw | R Street Corridor | Hip, emerging arts scene |
| Navy Yard | West Sacramento | Riverfront views, modern development |
| NoMa | Downtown Sacramento | Urban living, entertainment hub |
| Woodley Park | Arden Park | Quiet neighborhoods, green spaces |
Finding a new neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences can make the transition to a new city smoother and more enjoyable. For example, if you relish the historic charm and upscale boutiques of Georgetown, you'll find a similar vibe in East Sacramento, which boasts stately homes and refined shopping experiences at places like the Fabulous Forties. Similarly, Adams Morgan's lively multicultural atmosphere is mirrored in Sacramento's Oak Park, where events like the Oak Park Farmers Market bring the community together. For those drawn to the waterfront and new developments of Navy Yard, West Sacramento offers exciting riverfront living with projects like The Barn, a hub for dining and events. Each of these neighborhoods, while distinct, shares common threads with their Washington, DC counterparts, making them ideal for newcomers seeking familiarity in their new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Sacramento
Moving cities can be a daunting task, especially when it involves relocating from Washington DC, DC to Sacramento, CA. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation by contrasting the pros and cons of leaving the capital for California’s state capital. The purpose of the following charts is to help you weigh your options thoughtfully.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Dense traffic
- Humid summers
- Limited outdoor space
- Political focus
Sacramento, CA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic congestion
- Mild, dry summers
- More parks and rivers
- Diverse industries
Sacramento, CA- Smaller historical footprint
- Less public transit options
- More homogenous population
- Quieter nightlife scene
- Fewer museums and galleries
Washington DC, DC- Rich history
- Extensive public transit
- International community
- Vibrant nightlife
- Cultural institutions
While both cities boast their own unique charm, moving from Washington DC to Sacramento will mean trading the hub of political activity and rich historical sites like the Lincoln Memorial and Smithsonian Museums for a city with a burgeoning tech scene and a robust outdoor lifestyle. Sacramento's lower cost of living allows for more spacious living conditions and the opportunity to enjoy California's famed outdoor lifestyle with easy access to places like the American River Parkway and Capitol Park. Despite trading away some of the grand historical narratives and the densely packed cultural institutions of DC, you'll find Sacramento's food scene, highlighted by venues like Selland's Market Café and the farm-to-fork restaurants littering the Midtown area, quite vibrant. The slower pace of life and the warmth of the community might be exactly what you're looking for in a new home.
Washington DC vs. Sacramento Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in the local culture and everyday lifestyle, making it a significant aspect to consider when relocating. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Sacramento to better inform you about the food scene in your new city.
| Washington DC | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Farm-to-Fork Cuisine |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Wings | Grass-fed Beef Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Jumbo Slice Pizza | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Chili | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In comparison to Washington DC, Sacramento prides itself as America's Farm-to-Fork capital, a title that underscores the city's commitment to fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. The abundance of agricultural produce in the surrounding regions translates to a vibrant culinary scene deeply rooted in seasonal flavors. For example, Grass-fed Beef Steak highlights the local emphasis on quality and sustainability. You'll find this ethos embodied in restaurants like The Kitchen Restaurant or Mulvaney's B&L, situated in the bustling Midtown neighborhood, where the fusion of local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques contribute to Sacramento's unique food identity. Moreover, the city's growing vegan scene, featuring dishes such as Quinoa Salad, reflects its progressive approach to dietary preferences and sustainability.
Washington DC vs. Sacramento Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering the local culinary scene. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease the transition from Washington DC to Sacramento , helping you find your next favorite dining spots based on your old favorites.
| Washington DC | Sacramento | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Maison Parisienne | Similar French bistro vibe with a cozy, authentic menu. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Willie's Burgers | Iconic casual dining with a focus on American classics. |
| Fiola Mare | The Firehouse Restaurant | Both offer a luxurious seafood experience in a sophisticated setting. |
| Rose's Luxury | Mulvaney's B&L | Comparable commitment to high-quality, inventive dishes and impeccable service. |
| Zaytinya | Kasbah Lounge | Shares a similar emphasis on Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors in a lively atmosphere. |
| 2 Amys | OneSpeed | Artisan pizzas with a focus on fresh, local ingredients in a neighborhood setting. |
| Bad Saint | Mahoroba Japanese Bakery | While not a direct culinary match, both offer unique and authentic cuisine experiences. |
| The Dabney | Localis | Both are known for their focus on local and seasonal ingredients presented in creative ways. |
| Jose Andres' ThinkFoodGroup Restaurants | The Kitchen Restaurant | Offers an innovative and experiential dining concept, similar to Andres' approach. |
| Busboys and Poets | Tower Cafe | Known for its eclectic menu and role as a cultural hub for poetry and arts. |
While not all culinary experiences can be matched directly given the unique character of each city's dining scene, the restaurants listed above offer a parallel in terms of quality, atmosphere, and culinary philosophy. For instance, the transition from Le Diplomate's classic French bistro environment can be softened by diving into Maison Parisienne's authentic and cozy setting. Similarly, the innovative and experiential dining that Jose Andres' restaurants are known for in Washington DC finds a counterpart in Sacramento's The Kitchen Restaurant, where the emphasis on creativity and interaction in dining prevails. These comparisons not only bridge the geographical gap but also open up new avenues for culinary exploration and enjoyment in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Sacramento Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal consideration when planning a relocation. Understanding how Washington DC and Sacramento compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle can significantly impact your decision-making process. Here’s a detailed comparison to guide you.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Victorian | Spanish Colonial and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, proximity to metro | Large backyards, access to parks |
When comparing the housing landscapes of Washington DC and Sacramento, the stark difference in median home prices and monthly rents stands out, making Sacramento the more affordable option. Additionally, each city offers a unique living experience shaped by its architecture; Washington DC boasts historic Federal and Victorian homes, enhancing its urban appeal, while Sacramento's Spanish Colonial and Ranch-style houses cater to those desiring a blend of suburban and city life. Moreover, Washington DC's high walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense, transit-friendly layout, contrasting with Sacramento's more spread-out, car-dependent living. Considering these factors, your choice between these two cities should align with your lifestyle preferences and financial considerations.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA
1. Midtown : This area's abundant dog parks, such as Truitt Bark Park, and pet-friendly patios make it a haven for pet owners.
2. East Sacramento : Known for its picturesque streets and close proximity to the spacious McKinley Park, it's perfect for long walks with your furry friend.
3. Land Park : With its expansive green spaces like William Land Park, it's ideal for pets that love outdoor activities and living close to nature.
Washington DC vs. Sacramento Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the weather conditions of your current location to your future home is crucial. This comparison helps you prepare for changes and adapt more easily to your new environment. Understanding the weather differences between Washington DC and Sacramento is essential for those moving to ensure a smooth transition.
Washington DC, DC
Sacramento, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Sacramento, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Sacramento, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Sacramento, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Varies, mostly Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Snowstorms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Washington DC to Sacramento will introduce you to a significantly drier climate with more sunshine and a lower average humidity level. You can expect warmer summers and milder winters in Sacramento, coupled with fewer rainy days—an aspect that dramatically reduces the annual rainfall compared to Washington DC. Notably, Sacramento experiences a higher average UV index, calling for more frequent sunscreen use. Adjusting to these conditions will ensure that your move is as comfortable as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Sacramento
When contemplating a move from one city to another, getting a grip on how the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes in Washington DC compare to those in Sacramento is essential. This comparison aims to equip you with insights into your potential financial landscape as you plan your relocation.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $75,311 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 116.2 |
| State Income Tax | 4%-8.95% | 1%-13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56% | 0.81% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 8.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Government, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Moving from Washington DC to Sacramento, you'll likely notice some significant financial changes. While the average household income in DC is higher, Sacramento's lower cost of living and similarly variable state income tax rates can offer some financial relief. Property taxes in Sacramento are slightly higher, reflecting California's overall tax environment, but this is something to weigh against other living cost factors. The differences in top industries between the two locations highlight the unique economic landscapes, potentially impacting job opportunities based on your sector. Moreover, understanding affluence, poverty, and homelessness levels between the two cities can provide deeper insight into the societal structure and your potential contributions as a new resident.
Washington DC vs. Sacramento Political & Religious Comparison
This brief comparison provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between Washington DC & Sacramento. Whether you're moving for a new job, lifestyle change, or just a fresh start, knowing the community you'll be joining is crucial.
| Washington DC | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Generally Democratic |
| Local Politics | Nationally focused, progressive | State capital, diverse issues |
| Religion | Varied, with notable Christian and non-religious communities | Diverse, strong Christian and non-religious presence |
Both Washington DC and Sacramento have a tendency to lean Democratic, but the scale and focus of local politics differ significantly. In DC, the political scene is heavily influenced by national and international matters, with a progressive tilt. Sacramento, as the capital of California, deals with a wide array of state-wide issues and showcases a spectrum of political ideologies from its diverse populace. Religion in both cities presents a rich tapestry, including significant Christian communities and a considerable percentage of residents identifying as non-religious. Understanding these nuances will help you better integrate into your new community.
Washington DC vs. Sacramento Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Sacramento, CA, or vice versa? This guide will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between these two cities. Whether you're planning to drive or use public transport, understanding these differences is key to a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.4 | 26.2 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, especially within the city | It's possible but more challenging |
Washington DC boasts a highly efficient public transit system, predominantly due to the widespread availability of the Metro and buses, making it quite feasible to live without a car. On the other hand, Sacramento's transit system, while reliable, covers fewer areas comprehensively, which might necessitate owning a car for more seamless travel outside of the city center. Notably, though, traffic congestion is significantly less in Sacramento compared to Washington DC, potentially offering a more pleasant driving experience for those who choose to drive. Understanding these dynamics can significantly influence your decision on whether to rely on public transit or personal vehicles in your new city.
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