Best Washington DC to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 262 mile move from DC to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Washington DC to Raleigh 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 $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Raleigh. 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 Raleigh Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Raleigh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 262 miles from Washington DC, DC to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $1,703 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Raleigh move is roughly $4,070. 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 | $1,148 | 300 ft³ | 3.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,703 | 450 ft³ | 3.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,807 | 750 ft³ | 3.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,070 | 1100 ft³ | 3.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,853 | 1600 ft³ | 3.66 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,508 | 1800 ft³ | 3.62 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Raleigh 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can often feel like stepping into the unknown. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide comparing local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Raleigh, NC . Using your familiar Washington DC neighborhoods as a baseline, we'll introduce you to similar areas in Raleigh, helping you find a new place that feels like home from day one.
| Washington DC | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Glenwood South | Vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining |
| Georgetown | Cameron Village | Historic charm, upscale shopping |
| Capitol Hill | Oakwood | Historic homes, close-knit community feel |
| Adams Morgan | Fayetteville Street | Diverse restaurants, entertainment |
| Logan Circle | Five Points | Trendy eateries, historic touches |
| NoMa | Warehouse District | Industrial vibe, arts scene |
| Navy Yard | North Hills | Modern amenities, green spaces |
| Shaw | Boylan Heights | Artistic flair, community-centric |
| Columbia Heights | Mordecai | Diverse community, historic homes |
| The Wharf | North Raleigh | Waterfront dining, outdoor activities |
Neighborhoods like Glenwood South in Raleigh, with its lively atmosphere and unique dining spots, can bring to mind the vibrant streets of Dupont Circle in DC. Similarly, if you're moving from the historic and cultured Georgetown area, Cameron Village's blend of historic charm and upscale shopping opportunities may resonate with you. For those appreciating the close-knit community and historic homes of Capitol Hill, Raleigh’s Oakwood neighborhood offers a similar tight-knit vibe along with serene parks such as the Historic Oakwood Cemetery. Whether you're strolling through the eclectic streets of Fayetteville Street or enjoying the industrial chic of the Warehouse District, Raleigh has neighborhoods that mirror the essence of what you loved in Washington DC, imbued with the city's own unique Southern charm.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Raleigh
Moving from one city to another can be an exciting journey, yet it involves considering various factors. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Raleigh, NC , providing a balanced view of what to expect. The following charts aim to highlight contrasting aspects of both cities, helping you make a well-informed decision.
Washington DC, DC- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Packed urban life
- Political center pressures
Raleigh, NC- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- More green spaces
- Relaxed atmosphere
Raleigh, NC- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer job markets
- Less historical sites
- More limited dining
Washington DC, DC- Rich cultural scene
- Vast career opportunities
- Historic landmarks
- Diverse dining options
When considering the move from Washington DC to Raleigh, it's helpful to dive deeper into what these pros and cons mean for daily life. Washington's bustling environment and significant career opportunities in various sectors contrast with Raleigh's laid-back ambiance and thriving tech and scholarly community. Raleigh is renowned for its expanding green spaces, like Umstead State Park, offering a serene escape from the urban rush. Meanwhile, DC's rich historical tapestry and cultural landmarks, including the Smithsonian museums and the Lincoln Memorial, provide an unparalleled urban experience. Dining out in DC presents a kaleidoscope of global cuisines from Michelin-starred restaurants like José Andrés’s venues to the myriad of food trucks dotting the city landscapes. Raleigh, by comparison, is carving out its culinary niche, with vibrant spots like Brewery Bhavana and Bida Manda offering unique dining experiences rooted in community and creativity.
Washington DC vs. Raleigh Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is a pivotal part of immersing into a new city's culture. As you plan your move, a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Raleigh can provide a taste of what culinary delights await. Whether you're a foodie or simply curious about your new home's food scene, this guide will help.
| Washington DC | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-smoke | Pulled pork barbecue |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo sauce with wings | Eastern NC barbecue |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks offerings | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Plant-based bowls | Tofu scramble |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Washington DC and Raleigh, local cuisine reflects a deep cultural richness. In DC, you’ll find a diverse food scene from the famous half-smokes at Ben's Chili Bowl to a variety of international cuisines. The city's food trucks, in particular, offer a quick glimpse into this diversity. Raleigh, known for its pulled pork barbecue, prides itself on its Southern culinary roots. Places like The Pit epitomize this with their authentic Eastern NC barbecue. Raleigh’s food scene might seem more focused compared to DC’s sprawling offerings, but both cities cater to food lovers with a knack for exploration and variety.
Washington DC vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite restaurant can turn a new city into home. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Raleigh aims to ease the transition by mapping out where your next go-to spots might be. From high-end dining to casual eateries, we've got you covered.
| Washington DC | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zaytinya | Mandolin | Offers a farm-to-table dining experience reminiscent of Zaytinya’s Mediterranean flavors |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern | Classic, upscale dining with a focus on local ingredients similar to Blue Duck Tavern |
| Le Diplomate | Coquette Brasserie | Provides a French bistro atmosphere akin to Le Diplomate |
| Rasika | Chhote's | Delivers traditional and modern Indian cuisine comparable to Rasika |
| Bad Saint | Bida Manda | While focusing on Laotian cuisine, it offers a similar adventurous dining experience as Bad Saint |
| 2 Amys | Oakwood Pizza Box | Known for its Neapolitan pizzas, Oakwood Pizza Box is a favorable counterpart to 2 Amys |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | The Pit | Though specializing in barbecue, it offers a similarly iconic and casual dining experience to Ben's Chili Bowl |
| Rose's Luxury | Brewery Bhavana | Incorporates a diverse and innovative menu that echoes Rose's Luxury’s approach to dining |
| Fiola Mare | 42nd Street Oyster Bar | Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh offerings that parallel Fiola Mare’s upscale seafood dining |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Sullivan’s Steakhouse | Offers a fine dining experience with a focus on steak and seafood similar to Joe's |
For those missing the vibrantly flavored Mediterranean dishes of Zaytinya in DC, Mandolin in Raleigh promises an equally enchanting farm-to-table experience with a local twist. Fans of upscale, ingredient-focused dining akin to Blue Duck Tavern will find a new haven at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern, where the dedication to quality and locally-sourced ingredients shines through in every dish. Meanwhile, the classic French ambiance and culinary delights of Le Diplomate are mirrored in Raleigh’s Coquette Brasserie, offering a slice of Parisian charm in the heart of North Carolina. Each Raleigh establishment strives to capture the essence of its DC counterpart, ensuring that even the most discerning foodies can transition smoothly without forfeiting their culinary preferences.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating. It's paramount to understand how the housing landscapes in Washington DC and Raleigh compare, ranging from costs to lifestyle features. This comparison will help you make an informed decision tailored to your preferences and needs.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Victorian | Colonial Revival and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transport, historic landmarks | Family-friendly neighborhoods, green spaces |
When comparing real estate in Washington DC and Raleigh, cost and lifestyle differences are significant. Washington DC's higher median home prices and rent reflect its urban density and proximity to government, cultural, and historic landmarks. The city's architecture, prominently featuring Federal and Victorian styles, adds to its unique charm. Meanwhile, Raleigh offers more affordable housing options, with Colonial Revival and Craftsman styles being typical, catering to those desiring spacious, family-friendly neighborhoods. Despite being less walkable and bikeable than DC, Raleigh is celebrated for its abundant green spaces, appealing to those who appreciate outdoor activities and a more relaxed pace of life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC
1. North Hills: With an abundance of pet-friendly shops and an expansive park, your pet will love the outdoor activities available.
2. Boylan Heights: This neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly community atmosphere and easy access to Dorothea Dix Park, a popular spot for dog walks and community gatherings.
3. Five Points: You and your pet will enjoy walking through the historical streets and visiting local pet-friendly businesses, including several cafes and eateries that welcome furry friends.
Washington DC vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new home compares to your current one. This comparison aims to shed light on the differences in climate between Washington DC and Raleigh, helping you prepare for what to expect in terms of temperature, humidity, natural disasters, and more.
Washington DC, DC
Raleigh, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Raleigh, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Raleigh, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Raleigh, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, storms | Hurricanes, storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Washington DC to Raleigh, you'll notice subtle differences like a slight increase in summer high temperatures and more days of sunshine per year in Raleigh. However, both cities share similar challenges, such as humidity and susceptibility to hurricanes and storms. Raleigh experiences a considerably lesser amount of snowfall compared to Washington DC, which could mean fewer snow days and potentially less winter weather disruption. Air quality in Raleigh is generally good, which might be a slight improvement for those sensitive to pollution levels. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more seamlessly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Raleigh
When relocating, it's essential to understand how your finances will adjust. This comparison between Washington DC and Raleigh, NC , focusing on money and finance , provides a comprehensive overview to help you prepare for your move.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $74,612 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 98.2 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0 - 8.95 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 0.84 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.00 | 6.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lesser |
In comparing financial factors between Washington DC and Raleigh, note the significant differences in the average household income and the cost of living index, which are higher in DC. However, Raleigh presents a more moderate affluence level with slightly better poverty rates. Furthermore, while both cities enjoy strong industry sectors, their focuses vary; DC's economy is deeply rooted in government and services, whereas Raleigh is emerging as a hub for technology and healthcare. These differences not only influence the overall economic health of each area but also directly affect your daily life and financial well-being after the move.
Washington DC vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Raleigh provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, offering insights into the community vibe you're moving into.
| Washington DC | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Highly engaged, progressive policies | Moderately engaged, mix of conservative and progressive policies |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant presence of Christians, Jews, Muslims, and non-religious groups | Diverse, predominantly Christian, followed by non-religious groups and other faiths |
While both Washington DC and Raleigh lean Democratic, you'll notice a shift from DC's predominantly progressive stance to a more mixed political climate in Raleigh. This difference is reflected in local politics as well, where Raleigh presents a balance between conservative and progressive policies. Religion in both cities is diverse, but Raleigh has a higher proportion of Christians. Understanding these dynamics can help you adapt and connect with your new community more effectively.
Washington DC vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Raleigh brings significant changes, particularly in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Raleigh aims to help you adjust and plan for your new life efficiently.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 25.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but it depends on area | It's challenging |
Upon moving from Washington DC to Raleigh, you'll notice a considerable shift in your everyday travel experience. Raleigh offers a more relaxed commute with significantly lower average commute times and traffic congestion than Washington DC. However, Raleigh’s public transit system is less extensive, making it more challenging to live without a car compared to the numerous public transportation options available in Washington DC. Adjusting to these differences will be essential in planning your daily movements and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home in Raleigh.
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