Best Washington DC to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightDCChevron RightWashington DCChevron RightWashington DC to Salinas

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Washington DC to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,946 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Washington DC to Salinas 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 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Salinas. 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 Salinas Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Washington DC to Salinas 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
4Mod Movers8.808.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Salinas

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,946 miles from Washington DC, DC to Salinas, CA will cost on average $4,286 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Salinas move is roughly $10,368. 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$2,873300 ft³9.58
1 Bedroom$4,286450 ft³9.53
2 Bedrooms$7,107750 ft³9.48
3 Bedrooms$10,3681100 ft³9.43
4 Bedrooms$15,0011600 ft³9.38
5+ Bedrooms$16,7861800 ft³9.33
*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.
DC iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Salinas 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
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.80/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we offer a comparison of popular neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Salinas, CA. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Salinas that shares the vibe and amenities of your current Washington DC locale, making the move feel like you're just shifting from one familiar spot to another.

Washington DCSalinasHow They're Similar
GeorgetownSouth SalinasHistoric homes, vibrant main street
Capitol HillMaple ParkFamily-friendly, close to community centers
Dupont CircleOld Town SalinasCultural hub, arts and dining
Adams MorganCreekbridgeDiverse community, eclectic dining options
Logan CircleLaurel HeightsUrban feel, trendy restaurants and bars
Columbia HeightsNorth SalinasLively shopping districts, multicultural atmosphere
Navy YardHarrodModern developments, waterfront recreation
NoMaUniversity ParkYoung professional crowd, near education centers
ShawMonte VistaNightlife and entertainment, community-focused
BloomingdaleLos OlivosQuiet residential, close-knit community feel

In Georgetown, known for its historic homes and bustling main street, you'll find a similar charm in South Salinas which also boasts beautiful historic properties and a lively downtown area perfect for weekend strolls and dining out. Meanwhile, Adams Morgan's diverse and vibrant atmosphere is mirrored in Creekbridge, Salinas, offering an eclectic mix of dining options that cater to a wide array of tastes. If you enjoy the urban vibe and trendy restaurants of Logan Circle, Laurel Heights in Salinas provides a similar experience with its selection of modern eateries and bars, making it a great spot for evenings out. Lastly, Navy Yard's modern developments and waterfront recreations find a parallel in Salinas's Harrod neighborhood, where the new meets the natural in a beautifully balanced way.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Salinas

  • Explore Pinnacles National Park.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
  • Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
  • Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
  • Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
  • Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
  • Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Salinas

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the downsides to find a balance that suits your lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Salinas, CA. By examining the cons and pros through dedicated charts, you'll gain insight into how life might change for the better or worse in your new home.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • Humid summers
  • Political-centric culture
  • Limited green spaces
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Less traffic
  • Milder climate
  • Agriculturally rich area
  • More access to nature
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less public transit options
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Fewer historical landmarks
  • Less dining diversity
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Extensive public transit
  • Abundant job opportunities
  • Rich historical landmarks
  • Diverse dining options

Moving to Salinas offers a significant change, especially in terms of climate and pace of life. Salinas's milder climate eliminates the discomfort of Washington DC's humid summers, making outdoor activities more enjoyable year-round. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to natural beauty, with places like the Los Padres National Forest offering a stark contrast to the more urban-centric green spaces of DC. While Salinas may not boast the extensive cultural and dining diversity of Washington DC, local gems like First Awakenings and the Steinbeck Center provide unique local experiences. Although the job market might seem narrower, the agricultural sector in Salinas is vibrant, offering different career opportunities. It's essential to weigh these factors to determine whether the move aligns with your lifestyle and career goals.

Washington DC vs. Salinas Food Guide

Exploring local cuisine is a delicious way to understand the culture and lifestyle of a new area. In our guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Salinas so you can get a taste of what life will be like after your move. From iconic eats to the health consciousness of each location, this comparison will help you savor the flavors of your new home.

Washington DCSalinas
Most iconic local food itemHalf-SmokeArtichokes
Most popular meat dishMumbo Sauce Chicken WingsTri-tip
Most popular street food itemJumbo Slice PizzaStreet Tacos
Most popular vegan foodPlant-based BowlVeggie Burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Le Diplomate
  • Gino's Fine Italian Food
  • The Steinbeck House
  • Salinas City BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Washington DC is famed for its diverse and international culinary scene, featuring everything from Ethiopian cuisine to Japanese ramen, Salinas offers a rich palette of flavors deeply influenced by its agricultural surroundings and Mexican heritage. Here, you can savor dishes like the locally sourced artichokes and tri-tip, which are central to Salinas’ gastronomical identity. Particularly notable are the street tacos found in numerous spots around the city, offering an authentic taste of the locale. For those looking for vegan options, Salinas’ veggie burritos provide a delicious and filling choice, exemplifying the area's fresh produce availability. Whether dining in DC’s vibrant neighborhoods or exploring the food scene in Salinas, you’re sure to find dishes that speak directly to the soul of each city.

Washington DC vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

Finding a restaurant that feels like home can significantly ease your transition to a new city. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Salinas, CA is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, mapping your beloved Washington DC restaurants to their Salinas counterparts.

Washington DCSalinasWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomatePatriaEuropean cuisine with a local twist
ZaytinyaGiorgio's at 201 MainMediterranean flavors in a sophisticated setting
Blue Duck TavernMonterey Coast BrewingQuality American fare with a focus on fresh ingredients
Ben's Chili BowlEagle RestaurantClassic American eats, known for hearty portions
Rose's LuxuryGabilan Pizza & RotisserieCreative, upscale dishes in a cozy atmosphere
MakettoSalinas City BBQA fusion of flavors with a casual, hip vibe
KomiFarm Fresh Deli & CafeIntimate dining experience with a farm-to-table approach
Fiola MareLouie Linguini's Seafood ShackFresh seafood with an ocean view
Bad SaintRancho Cielo Drummond Culinary AcademyInnovative plates with a unique culinary story
The DabneyFirst AwakeningsLocal ingredients with a twist on traditional American cuisine

While Salinas may not have a direct counterpart for every Washington DC favorite, the city offers unique culinary experiences that can satisfy similar palates. Patria serves European dishes reminiscent of Le Diplomate's French flair but adds a local Californian touch, making it uniquely appealing. Giorgio's at 201 Main mirrors Zaytinya's Mediterranean influence, offering sophisticated dining for those seeking flavors from abroad. For lovers of American cuisine, Monterey Coast Brewing and Eagle Restaurant provide comforting, quality meals akin to Blue Duck Tavern and Ben's Chili Bowl. This cross-city culinary guide invites you to explore new dining horizons while finding comfort in the familiar tastes of home.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Washington DC vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Washington DC and Salinas, CA illuminates the differences in housing, helping you make an informed decision on where to call home next.

ComparisonWashington DCSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, FederalSpanish Revival, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to government buildings, Historic charmViews of Salinas Valley, Agricultural community

In delving deeper into the housing market differences, Washington DC boasts a rich historical backdrop with architecture showcasing Colonial and Federal styles, reflective of its political significance. The city's high walkability and bikeability scores align with its urban lifestyle, offering easy access to a myriad of amenities, landmarks, and government buildings. Salinas, on the other hand, presents an allure with its Spanish Revival and Ranch-style homes, encapsulating the essence of California's agricultural heartland. The views of the Salinas Valley stand out in real estate listings, drawing attention to the natural beauty and more laid-back pace of life. However, it scores lower in terms of walkability and bikeability, indicating a more car-dependent lifestyle compared to Washington DC.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA

1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.

2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.

3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.

Washington DC vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Washington DC to Salinas, CA, understanding how the weather compares between these locations is crucial. Factors such as temperature, sunshine, and humidity can greatly affect your comfort and lifestyle adjustments. This comparison will illuminate the significant weather variations you'll experience, preparing you for your new home environment.

Summer icon
89°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

70°F / 55°F

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

62°F / 44°F

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40

Washington DC, DC

12

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.5

Washington DC, DC

0

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCSalinas
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, SnowstormsEarthquakes, Mudslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In transitioning from Washington DC to Salinas, you'll notice a marked difference in climate and weather patterns that could influence your daily life and activities. Salinas offers a more moderate and stable climate, with a significantly lower annual snowfall, eliminating the need for snow-related activities and preparations. The higher number of sunny days and improved air quality in Salinas may entice more outdoor activities and potentially enhance your overall well-being. However, it's important to consider Salinas different seasonal allergies due to its year-round pollen and to be aware of its proximity to natural disaster risks like earthquakes. Adjusting to these changes will be an important part of settling into your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it is vital to understand the financial implications of such a move. This comparison aims to aid in your decision-making process by highlighting the differences in cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Washington DC and Salinas, CA. Knowing these differences will help you plan your finances effectively.

ComparisonWashington DCSalinas
Avg. Household Income$90,088$80,154
Cost of Living Index140.1136.4
State Income Tax8.59.3
Avg. Property Tax0.560.79
Avg. Sales Tax6.009.25
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional Services, Education and Health ServicesAgriculture, Manufacturing, Education and Health Services
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessHighModerate

While both Washington DC and Salinas, CA offer vibrant economies, the financial landscape differs significantly between the two. The average household income is higher in Washington DC, but so is the cost of living index, indicating that your money might not go as far as you're used to. However, Salinas has a higher state income tax, which could affect your take-home pay. Despite the substantial agricultural presence in Salinas, suggesting solid employment opportunities in this sector, the affluence level is described as moderate compared to the high affluence of Washington DC, primarily powered by government and professional services. Both cities face their challenges with poverty and homelessness, which are important socio-economic factors to consider for your move.

Washington DC vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

In this quick comparison, we provide insights into the politics between Washington DC & Salinas , alongside the religious landscape, offering a glance at the diversity and civic engagement you might encounter when moving from one city to the other.

Washington DCSalinas
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticModerately Democratic
Local PoliticsHighly politically engagedCommunity-oriented, agrarian influence
ReligionDiverse religious communitiesPrimarily Christian, with a significant Catholic presence

When moving from Washington DC to Salinas, you'll notice a shift not only in the political landscape but also in the scope and flavor of community engagement. Washington DC's highly political environment, marked by its heavily Democratic leaning and active participation in national politics, contrasts with Salinas's more community-centered approach influenced by its agrarian roots. Salinas, while also moderately Democratic, often focuses on local issues that directly impact its residents. On the religious front, both cities boast diverse faith communities. However, Salinas stands out for its significant Catholic presence, reflective of both its demographic makeup and cultural influences. This transition offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a different yet enriching social and civic environment.

Washington DC vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When moving from Washington DC to Salinas, CA, it's essential to understand the differences in driving and transiting. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic will be like, helping you adjust smoothly to your new environment.

ComparisonWashington DCSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.523.7
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?YesNo

In Washington DC, the reliance on public transit is higher due to its extensive network, including the Metro and bus services, making it feasible for many residents to live without a personal vehicle. On the other hand, Salinas offers a more relaxed commute in terms of time and congestion, yet you'll likely find a car necessary for day-to-day travel as the public transit system isn't as robust. The contrast in traffic congestion and public transportation availability significantly impacts daily life, influencing your choice between convenience and necessity in navigating your new city.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Washington DC to Salinas Movers Featured Image