Best Washington DC to Sunnyvale Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Sunnyvale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,947 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Washington DC to Sunnyvale 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 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Sunnyvale. 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 Sunnyvale 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
4D&L Movers9.349.36ActiveContact
5Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Sunnyvale

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,947 miles from Washington DC, DC to Sunnyvale, CA will cost on average $4,287 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Sunnyvale move is roughly $10,370. 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$4,287450 ft³9.53
2 Bedrooms$7,108750 ft³9.48
3 Bedrooms$10,3701100 ft³9.43
4 Bedrooms$15,0041600 ft³9.38
5+ Bedrooms$16,7891800 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.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sunnyvale to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Sunnyvale 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
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
4
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
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. Sunnyvale Neighborhood Comparison

Making a move can be daunting, especially when venturing into a new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using Washington DC, DC & Sunnyvale, CA comparison of local neighborhoods . This guide aims to match you with a Sunnyvale neighborhood that mirrors the vibe and characteristics of your favorite Washington DC area.

Washington DCSunnyvaleHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleHeritage DistrictVibrant, historic vibes
Capitol HillSunnyvale WestFamily-friendly, community-oriented
GeorgetownSnailCharming, upscale shopping areas
Adams MorganOld OrchardDiverse cultural scene, lively nightlife
Logan CircleOrtega ParkStylish homes, thriving dining scene
NoMaLakewoodBooming tech hub, modern living spaces
ShawCherry ChaseRich in history, strong community spirit
Navy YardRaynor ParkGrowing, mixed-use development area
Columbia HeightsSunnyvale EastDiverse, family-friendly neighborhoods
PetworthBirdlandPeaceful residential area, green spaces

Whether you're drawn to the historic charm and bustling streets of Georgetown or the lively, diverse atmosphere of Adams Morgan, you'll find neighborhoods in Sunnyvale with a similar character. For instance, the Snail neighborhood mirrors Georgetown's upscale shopping areas and quaint eateries, such as the unique boutiques along Main Street. If you appreciate the dynamic cultural scene and nightlife of Adams Morgan, Old Orchard's diverse restaurants and bars, like The Astoria and Hola! Authentic Spanish Cuisine, offer a comparable vibe. Moreover, Sunnyvale's Birdland is the perfect match for Petworth's laid-back residential feel, featuring quiet streets and proximity to parks like Raynor Park, enhancing its appeal for those seeking a serene environment.

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Things to Do in Sunnyvale

  • Explore the Baylands Nature Preserve.
  • Attend a workshop at Sunnyvale Public Library.
  • Shop at Sunnyvale Town Center.
  • Enjoy Central Park activities.
  • Sample local brews at Faultline Brewing Company.
  • Catch a show at Sunnyvale Theatre.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Sunnyvale

Making the move from Washington DC, DC to Sunnyvale, CA can bring about significant lifestyle changes. It’s important to weigh both the cons of leaving Washington DC, DC and the pros of embracing Sunnyvale, CA, as well as the pros of Washington DC, DC against the cons of moving to Sunnyvale, CA. This balanced comparison aims to give you a comprehensive view of the potential impacts of your relocation decision.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High humidity
  • Pricier housing
  • Heavy traffic
  • Political intensity
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Milder climate
  • More affordable living
  • Less congested roads
  • Laid-back atmosphere
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer historic sites
  • More car dependency
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Diverse culture
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Historic landmarks
  • Public transport access

Moving from the politically charged and culturally rich environment of Washington DC to the tech-savvy, laid-back streets of Sunnyvale means adapting to a significantly different lifestyle. Sunnyvale beckons with its milder climate and less congested roads, offering a gentle reprieve from DC's relentless humidity and traffic. Imagine swapping the hustle of Capitol Hill for peaceful afternoons in Murphy Park or exchanging bustling DC evenings for serene nights dining at top-rated Dishdash or exploring the compact but charming Sunnyvale Historical Museum. While you might miss DC's sweeping monuments and vibrant street events, Sunnyvale's quiet charm and proximity to the technology hub of Silicon Valley present a refreshing new chapter full of potential.

Washington DC vs. Sunnyvale Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape is essential when relocating, as food is a vibrant expression of local culture and lifestyle. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Sunnyvale to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city.

Washington DCSunnyvale
Most iconic local food itemHalf-smokeArtisan Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishMumbo Sauce WingsTri-tip Steak
Most popular street food itemFood Trucks offering a variety of international cuisinesTaco Trucks
Most popular vegan foodVegetarian ChiliAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • Zaytinya by José Andrés
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When comparing the culinary scenes of Washington DC and Sunnyvale, one can appreciate the diversity and distinctiveness each city brings to the table. Washington DC, known for its rich political and international culture, offers a mix of global cuisines with iconic dishes like the Half-smoke and Mumbo Sauce Wings. Numerous food trucks and high-end restaurants like Zaytinya by José Andrés provide a broad spectrum of dining options. On the other hand, Sunnyvale, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, emphasizes fresh, local ingredients with a notable health-conscious approach. Artisan Sourdough Bread and Tri-tip Steak highlight the regional fare. Furthermore, Sunnyvale's Avocado Toast speaks to the city's love for vegan and health-oriented dishes, with establishments like DishDash and Falafel STOP being local favorites. Whether strolling through the streets of downtown Sunnyvale or exploring the historical neighborhoods of DC, the culinary offerings reflect the unique character of each city.

Washington DC vs. Sunnyvale Restaurant Comparison

Embarking on a move from one city to another can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding those special spots where you'll love to dine. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the gap between Washington DC and Sunnyvale, CA , allowing you to discover new favorite eateries inspired by the ones you already know and love. Whether you're in search of a high-end dining experience or a casual spot for a quick bite, this guide will point you in the right direction.

Washington DCSunnyvaleWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateDishdashMiddle Eastern cuisine with a similarly vibrant atmosphere.
2 AmysA Slice of New YorkTrue to its name for authentic, New York-style pizzas.
Ben's Chili BowlFaultline Brewing CompanyOffers hearty American fare, akin to the iconic status of Ben's.
Fiola MarePluto'sFresh ingredients and a focus on healthy eating, similar to Fiola Mare's upscale approach.
Bad SaintDish n DashDelicious and authentic Middle Eastern dishes that rival Bad Saint's bold flavors.
ZaytinyaEphesusOffers Mediterranean cuisine that echoes Zaytinya's inventive dishes.
Rose's LuxuryLuna Mexican KitchenThe vibrant and eclectic menu offers a comparable dining experience.
Blue Duck TavernLazy Dog Restaurant & BarAmerican cuisine with a focus on farm-to-table freshness similar to Blue Duck Tavern.
The DabneyPaul Martin's American GrillEmphasizes on local and seasonal ingredients like The Dabney.
Old Ebbitt GrillMurphy's LawPub atmosphere with historic charm similar to Old Ebbitt Grill.

For those accustomed to the distinct flavors and unique dining experiences of Washington DC, the transition to Sunnyvale’s culinary scene will be an adventure full of delightful similarities. Dishdash and A Slice of New York stand out as perfect examples of how local eateries can capture the essence of your old favorites while introducing you to the distinct flair of Sunnyvale. Dishdash’s Middle Eastern cuisine beautifully mirrors the vibrant, bustling atmosphere found at Le Diplomate, while A Slice of New York offers an authentic pizza experience that rivals the much-loved slices at 2 Amys. These transitions not only soften the change of scenery but enrich your culinary landscape with the diverse flavors of Sunnyvale.

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Ready to start your move?

Washington DC vs. Sunnyvale Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. It's important to compare how Washington DC and Sunnyvale, CA stack up in terms of housing. This comparison will spotlight key differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle, ensuring you make an informed decision.

ComparisonWashington DCSunnyvale
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, ColonialMid-Century Modern, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHistoric features, proximity to metroTech-friendly amenities, solar panels

While Washington DC offers a rich tapestry of historic architectural styles, like Victorian and Colonial, Sunnyvale leans towards Mid-Century Modern and Ranch styles that reflect its post-war boom and technological ethos. The median home price in Sunnyvale significantly surpasses that of Washington DC, a testament to the high demand in Silicon Valley's residential market. However, the capital city provides a denser, more walkable and bikeable urban environment, scoring higher in urban lifestyle. Listings in DC often highlight historic features and proximity to public transportation, whereas Sunnyvale listings emphasize modern amenities that complement a tech-savvy lifestyle, such as solar panels and smart home systems.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sunnyvale, CA

1. Sunnyvale West: With numerous walking paths and its proximity to Las Palmas Park, a dog-friendly park, it's a neighborhood where your pets can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.

2. Cherryhill: Home to the Serra Park, which offers a spacious off-leash area for dogs, making it a haven for pet owners who love to give their pets freedom to roam and play.

3. Snail: Known for its community vibe and access to pet-friendly amenities, including several pet stores and the close-by Raynor Park, where pets can enjoy walks on leashes amidst green surroundings.

Washington DC vs. Sunnyvale Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Washington DC to Sunnyvale, CA, understanding how the weather and climate will change is crucial. These comparisons will help you adjust to your new environment smoothly, comparing everything from temperature to air quality . Knowing what to expect can make your transition as comfortable as possible.

Summer icon
87°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

79°F / 58°F

Sunnyvale, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 30°F

Washington DC, DC

58°F / 39°F

Sunnyvale, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8

Washington DC, DC

15.9

Sunnyvale, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4

Washington DC, DC

0

Sunnyvale, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

In transitioning from Washington DC's humid subtropical climate to Sunnyvale's Mediterranean climate, you'll find milder summers and winters in California. Sunnyvale boasts significantly more days of sunshine and lower annual precipitation, which encourages outdoor activities year-round. However, it's also important to prepare for the natural disasters prevalent in each area, as Sunnyvale's risk for earthquakes and wildfires contrasts with Washington DC's hurricanes and snowstorms. Appreciating these differences will help you adapt more quickly to your new home's environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When moving from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living and financial environment of Washington DC compares to Sunnyvale, CA can significantly impact your budget and lifestyle. Here, we provide a detailed comparison to help you navigate this change.

ComparisonWashington DCSunnyvale
Avg. Household Income$90,088$156,059
Cost of Living Index140.1136.4
State Income Tax8.9513.3
Avg. Property Tax0.560.79
Avg. Sales Tax6.009.25
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceHighly affluentExtremely affluent
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessNotableLesser

While both Washington DC and Sunnyvale are known for their high living costs, it's crucial to note that Sunnyvale's Cost of Living Index significantly surpasses that of DC, reflecting the expensive nature of the Silicon Valley area. Additionally, the average household income in Sunnyvale is higher, which is essential given the city’s costly environment. This information suggests preparing for a significant adjustment in terms of budgeting and spending habits. Furthermore, the shift from Washington DC’s government-driven economy to Sunnyvale's tech-dominated market might present new employment opportunities or challenges, depending on your career path. Understanding these differences will be key to a smooth transition.

Washington DC vs. Sunnyvale Political & Religious Comparison

When planning a move from Washington DC to Sunnyvale, CA, it's essential to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Washington DC & Sunnyvale , providing insight into the local culture and societal norms that define each city.

Washington DCSunnyvale
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on federal governance, international relationsTech industry influence, local development
ReligionChristianity dominant, diverse religious communitiesDiverse, with significant Asian religions presence

In transitioning from Washington DC to Sunnyvale, you'll find that while both cities lean Democratic, the local political landscapes are quite different. Washington's political scene is heavily influenced by federal governance and international relations, reflecting its role as the nation’s capital. In contrast, Sunnyvale's politics are more influenced by Silicon Valley's tech industry and local development concerns, which can lead to a more business-oriented approach to governance. Religiously, both cities are diverse; however, Sunnyvale has a significant presence of Asian religions, reflecting its more varied demographic makeup. This shift may present new cultural and community engagement opportunities for you.

Washington DC vs. Sunnyvale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when considering how to navigate your new surroundings. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Sunnyvale aims to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will look like, easing the transition into your new home.

ComparisonWashington DCSunnyvale
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.525.4
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?YesPossible, but challenging

In Washington DC, the reliance on public transit is more feasible due to its extensive network, including the Metro and bus services, making it quite practical to navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, Sunnyvale offers a different scenario. While public transit exists, it might not be as dense or as widely available, requiring some residents to rely on a car for daily commutes. However, Sunnyvale's smaller size and less severe traffic congestion can make driving more tolerable than in larger, busier cities. Both cities present unique challenges and benefits when it comes to transportation, so considering your lifestyle and preferences will be key in making the transition smoother.

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