Best Washington DC to Sunnyvale Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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.

Best Washington DC to Sunnyvale Moving Companies
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,873 | 300 ft³ | 9.58 |
1 Bedroom | $4,287 | 450 ft³ | 9.53 |
2 Bedrooms | $7,108 | 750 ft³ | 9.48 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,370 | 1100 ft³ | 9.43 |
4 Bedrooms | $15,004 | 1600 ft³ | 9.38 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,789 | 1800 ft³ | 9.33 |


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
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) |

D&L Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |

Careful Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |

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. 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 DC | Sunnyvale | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Dupont Circle | Heritage District | Vibrant, historic vibes |
Capitol Hill | Sunnyvale West | Family-friendly, community-oriented |
Georgetown | Snail | Charming, upscale shopping areas |
Adams Morgan | Old Orchard | Diverse cultural scene, lively nightlife |
Logan Circle | Ortega Park | Stylish homes, thriving dining scene |
NoMa | Lakewood | Booming tech hub, modern living spaces |
Shaw | Cherry Chase | Rich in history, strong community spirit |
Navy Yard | Raynor Park | Growing, mixed-use development area |
Columbia Heights | Sunnyvale East | Diverse, family-friendly neighborhoods |
Petworth | Birdland | Peaceful 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.

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.
- Visit the Computer History Museum.
- 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.
- High humidity
- Pricier housing
- Heavy traffic
- Political intensity
- Milder climate
- More affordable living
- Less congested roads
- Laid-back atmosphere
- Smaller cultural scene
- Quieter nightlife
- Fewer historic sites
- More car dependency
- 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 DC | Sunnyvale | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Half-smoke | Artisan Sourdough Bread |
Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Wings | Tri-tip Steak |
Most popular street food item | Food Trucks offering a variety of international cuisines | Taco Trucks |
Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Chili | Avocado Toast |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
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 DC | Sunnyvale | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Le Diplomate | Dishdash | Middle Eastern cuisine with a similarly vibrant atmosphere. |
2 Amys | A Slice of New York | True to its name for authentic, New York-style pizzas. |
Ben's Chili Bowl | Faultline Brewing Company | Offers hearty American fare, akin to the iconic status of Ben's. |
Fiola Mare | Pluto's | Fresh ingredients and a focus on healthy eating, similar to Fiola Mare's upscale approach. |
Bad Saint | Dish n Dash | Delicious and authentic Middle Eastern dishes that rival Bad Saint's bold flavors. |
Zaytinya | Ephesus | Offers Mediterranean cuisine that echoes Zaytinya's inventive dishes. |
Rose's Luxury | Luna Mexican Kitchen | The vibrant and eclectic menu offers a comparable dining experience. |
Blue Duck Tavern | Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar | American cuisine with a focus on farm-to-table freshness similar to Blue Duck Tavern. |
The Dabney | Paul Martin's American Grill | Emphasizes on local and seasonal ingredients like The Dabney. |
Old Ebbitt Grill | Murphy's Law | Pub 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.

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.
Comparison | Washington DC | Sunnyvale |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Colonial | Mid-Century Modern, Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic features, proximity to metro | Tech-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 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.
Washington DC, DC
Sunnyvale, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Sunnyvale, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Sunnyvale, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Sunnyvale, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Washington DC | Sunnyvale |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Snowstorms | Earthquakes, 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.
Comparison | Washington DC | Sunnyvale |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $156,059 |
Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 8.95 | 13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6.00 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Government, Education, Healthcare | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
Affluence | Highly affluent | Extremely affluent |
Poverty | Moderate | Low |
Homelessness | Notable | Lesser |
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 DC | Sunnyvale | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
Local Politics | Focus on federal governance, international relations | Tech industry influence, local development |
Religion | Christianity dominant, diverse religious communities | Diverse, 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.
Comparison | Washington DC | Sunnyvale |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 25.4 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Possible, 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.



Additional Resources
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