Best Washington DC to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 453 mile move from DC to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 73 Washington DC to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Boston. 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 Boston Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 453 miles from Washington DC, DC to Boston, MA will cost on average $1,841 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Boston move is roughly $4,408. 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 | $1,240 | 300 ft³ | 4.13 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,841 | 450 ft³ | 4.09 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,037 | 750 ft³ | 4.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,408 | 1100 ft³ | 4.01 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,343 | 1600 ft³ | 3.96 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,060 | 1800 ft³ | 3.92 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Boston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
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) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
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) |
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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Planning your move and trying to picture life in a new city? To ease your transition from Washington DC to Boston, we've drawn up a comparison to help you find a Boston neighborhood paralleling the community vibes you love. This guide is crafted to highlight the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Boston, MA , ensuring you can start feeling at home right away.
| Washington DC | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Back Bay | Historic architecture, vibrant arts scene |
| Capitol Hill | Beacon Hill | Cobblestone streets, historic charm |
| Georgetown | Beacon Hill | Upscale shopping, rich history |
| Logan Circle | South End | Trendy restaurants, diverse community |
| Adams Morgan | Allston/Brighton | Diverse nightlife, young vibe |
| U Street Corridor | Jamaica Plain | Eclectic eateries, inclusive atmosphere |
| Columbia Heights | Dorchester | Multicultural, family-friendly |
| NoMa | Seaport District | Modern development, waterfront views |
| Navy Yard | Seaport District | Green spaces, riverfront dining |
| Shaw | Cambridge | Historic, vibrant, with a tech twist |
In both cities, neighborhoods act as microcosms of culture and history, embodying unique characteristics that appeal to residents and visitors alike. If you're drawn to the historic and politically charged atmosphere of Capitol Hill, you'll find Boston's Beacon Hill a seamless transition, with its narrow, gas-lit streets and Federal-style rowhouses. Meanwhile, the modern and artsy spirit of NoMa finds its counterpart in Boston's Seaport District, where innovation and waterfront luxury blend seamlessly. For those who adore the vibrant energy and diverse culinary scene of Adams Morgan, Allston/Brighton in Boston offers an equally dynamic mosaic of restaurants and bars catering to a youthful crowd. It’s neighborhoods like these that brim with unique spots such as Tatte Bakery in Beacon Hill or the Institute of Contemporary Art in the Seaport District, making each city's community distinct yet welcoming for newcomers seeking familiarity and charm.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Boston
Moving from one city to another can be a major life change, filled with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of living in Washington DC, DC versus Boston, MA , offering insights into the pros and cons of each. By understanding these aspects, you can make an informed decision on whether this relocation will suit your lifestyle and preferences.
Washington DC, DC- High living costs
- Humid summers
- Heavy traffic
- Political-centric culture
Boston, MA- Lower living costs
- Cooler summers
- Better public transit
- Diverse industries
Boston, MA- Costly housing
- Snowy winters
- Smaller city feel
- Less diverse cuisine
Washington DC, DC- Vibrant cultural scene
- Rich history
- Powerful networking
- Countless dining options
In comparing the vibrant cultural scenes of Washington DC and Boston, each city offers unique experiences. Washington DC, with its countless dining options, includes renowned restaurants like Zaytinya for Mediterranean fare and the historic vibes of Old Ebbitt Grill. Meanwhile, Boston's rich history is palpable in neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and at landmarks like the Freedom Trail. Moreover, Boston's winters might be snowier, but that also means picturesque snow-covered scenes and winter sports opportunities. For those concerned about Washington's heavy traffic, Boston's efficient public transit system, including the MBTA, affectionately known as "The T," offers a welcome change, making commutes and city exploration less of a hassle.
Washington DC vs. Boston Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the essence of where you live. By exploring the local cuisine, you can immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of a region. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Boston to help you acquaint yourself with the food scene as you plan your move.
| Washington DC | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce with Chicken Wings | Beef Pot Roast |
| Most popular street food item | Pupusas | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular vegan food | Chickpea Curry | Vegan Clam Chowder |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Boston, the local cuisine reflects the city's rich maritime history, as evident in its iconic clam chowder and beloved lobster rolls, particularly found in the North End and Seaport districts. Historic establishments like Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant, offer a taste of New England's culinary heritage. In contrast, in Washington DC, the food scene is incredibly diverse, with a special place for its distinct half-smoke sausages dished out at places like Ben's Chili Bowl. The city's eclectic mix of cultures is also reflected in its street food offerings, including pupusas, symbolizing its rich Central American influences.
Washington DC vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home is crucial, and finding your go-to eateries plays a significant part in that. Whether you're craving a high-end dining experience or just a casual bite, this restaurant comparison to help transition from Washington DC to Boston highlights spots where you can find familiar flavors and atmosphere. Let's navigate the culinary landscapes of these historic cities together.
| Washington DC | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Gaslight | Classic French bistro vibe |
| Rasika | India Quality | Authentic Indian cuisine |
| Zaytinya | Committee | Eclectic Mediterranean offerings |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Sully's | Classic American comfort food |
| Rose's Luxury | Giulia | Exceptional, innovative dining experience |
| 2Amys | Regina Pizzeria | Historic spot for pizza lovers |
| Bad Saint | Myers + Chang | Asian with a personal twist |
| Little Serow | Tiger Mama | Southeast Asian flavors galore |
| The Dabney | Oleana | Innovative, farm-to-table focus |
| Fiola Mare | Mare Oyster Bar | Seafood with elegance |
When you wander the historic streets of Boston craving the familiar flavors from Washington DC, there are remarkable spots ready to welcome you with open arms and tantalizing menus. For instance, the transition from the eclectic Mediterranean flavors of Zaytinya in DC to the creative dishes at Committee in Boston will be seamless, offering you a wide array of choices from different parts of the Mediterranean region. Seafood lovers who relished the elegance of Fiola Mare will find a new haven at Mare Oyster Bar, where the freshness of the ocean meets expert culinary craftsmanship in a cozy, upscale setting. Let these curated eateries help you ease into your new Bostonian lifestyle, one delicious meal at a time.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts the decision to move, especially when comparing two cities. Understanding how Washington DC and Boston measure up in terms of housing cost, architectural style, walkability , and urban lifestyle is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate these aspects, guiding your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal, Victorian | Victorian, Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, rooftop terraces | Historic details, waterfront views |
In both Washington DC and Boston, you'll find a rich diversity in architectural styles, with DC boasting grand Federal and charming Victorian homes, while Boston is renowned for its historic Victorian and Colonial residences. The walkability and urban lifestyle scores reflect the dense, vibrant nature of both cities, with Boston slightly edging out DC. This could be due to Boston's compactness and abundance of historical sites within walking distance. Housing costs, while high in both cities, show that, surprisingly, Boston's median home prices are slightly lower than in DC, yet rent is marginally higher. The nuances in each city's real estate market highlight the importance of considering lifestyle preferences and priorities when making a move. For more unique experiences, Boston provides a historical backdrop to everyday life, whereas Washington DC offers a mix of modernity with historical significance.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Washington DC vs. Boston Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another can present a plethora of changes, especially in terms of weather. Understanding how the climate in Boston, MA compares to what you're used to in Washington, DC, Washington DC's weather to Boston's weather comparison, is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide will help you grasp the differences and similarities in weather patterns between these two cities.
Washington DC, DC
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Nor'easters, Blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When considering a move from Washington, DC to Boston, it's important to note that Boston experiences colder winters with significantly more snowfall – averaging about 48 inches annually compared to DC's 15.4 inches. Summers in Boston are also slightly cooler, which can be a pleasant change during the hot months. Additionally, both cities face their own set of natural disaster risks, with DC being more prone to hurricanes and flooding, while Boston often deals with nor'easters and blizzards. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for seasonal changes and ensure you have the necessary supplies year-round.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Boston
Moving from one city to another involves adjusting to different living costs and financial landscapes. This comparison aims to simplify that adjustment by examining key financial factors when moving from Washington DC to Boston . It's crucial to understand how these factors will impact your budget and lifestyle in your new home.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0 - 8.95 | 5.0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 1.22 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Education, Health Services, Technology |
| Affluence | Highly affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
The financial landscapes of Washington DC and Boston have distinct characteristics that could influence your living experience. Although the average household income in DC exceeds that of Boston, the cost of living in Boston is higher. The state income tax in Boston is a flat rate, which could simplify financial planning for residents moving from DC's variable tax rates. Interestingly, both cities prioritize education and services in their economy, but Boston's notable emphasis on technology creates a dynamic job market for those in the tech sector. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for a smoother transition to your new city.
Washington DC vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Washington DC to Boston, understanding the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Boston and the religious landscape can offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the local vibe you're transitioning into. This will help you see beyond the historical landmarks and delve into the community you'll soon call home.
| Washington DC | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Mostly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Home rule; Mayor-council government | Mayor-council government |
| Religion | Christians, non-religious, others | Christians, non-religious, others |
When diving into the differences, one of the most apparent is the political landscape. While both Washington DC and Boston lean heavily Democratic, the implications of living in the nation's capital, where politics is a pervasive part of daily life and local governance offers unique opportunities for civic engagement, cannot be understated. Boston shares a rich political history but operates on a slightly different scale with its own unique local governance matters and political climate. On the religious front, both cities boast diverse communities, offering places of worship and spiritual communities for Christians, those practicing other religions, and spaces for those who are non-religious. The transition between these cities might feel smoother knowing the shared values but expect nuanced differences in local politics and community engagement.
Washington DC vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating, especially when comparing the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Boston. This comparison will arm you with insights into what to expect in either city.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 30.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes |
Both Washington DC and Boston offer robust public transit options, reducing the necessity of owning a car. Washington DC, with its slightly higher public transit score, boasts the Metro, a well-integrated subway system that connects the city and neighboring areas, including suburbs in Maryland and Virginia. Boston's public transit, primarily consisting of the MBTA (or the "T"), includes subway, bus, trolley, and boat services, making it possible to navigate the city and its surroundings without a car. However, commute times can vary, with Washington DC's average being slightly higher, reflecting its more pronounced traffic congestion. Despite these differences, both cities are relatively manageable without a personal vehicle, thanks to their commitment to public transportation and walkability.
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