Best Washington DC to Memphis Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Memphis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 885 mile move from DC to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Washington DC to Memphis 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Memphis. 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 Memphis 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
4Garrett's Hauling8.798.8Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC8.568.38Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Memphis

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 885 miles from Washington DC, DC to Memphis, TN will cost on average $2,534 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Memphis move is roughly $6,084. 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$1,704300 ft³5.68
1 Bedroom$2,534450 ft³5.63
2 Bedrooms$4,186750 ft³5.58
3 Bedrooms$6,0841100 ft³5.53
4 Bedrooms$8,7691600 ft³5.48
5+ Bedrooms$9,7751800 ft³5.43
*Please note: These DC to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & Tennessee. 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 TN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Memphis to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Memphis 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
Garrett's Hauling Logo

Garrett's Hauling

Superb8.79/10
based on 324+ data points

Gallaway, TN, 38036

About Garrett's Hauling

Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Germantown,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3819914 / 1381892

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC Logo

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC

Fabulous8.56/10
based on 130+ data points

3456 Christy Ln

Bartlett, TN, 38135

About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3797931 / 1365852

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
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. Memphis Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can feel like exploring a new world. To bridge the gap, we've created a guide to compare local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Memphis, TN . Providing a roadmap for those relocating, this comparison aims to help you find a slice of home in a new city by identifying familiar vibes and characteristics in unfamiliar territories.

Washington DCMemphisHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleCooper-YoungLively, artistic hub
Capitol HillCentral GardensHistoric, community-centered
GeorgetownHarbor TownChic, waterfront living
Adams MorganOverton SquareVibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine
Logan CircleMidtownEclectic, with a mix of modern and historic homes
Columbia HeightsCrosstownCommunity-focused, diversity
NoMaSouth MainTrendy, artsy area with industrial vibes
ShawEdge DistrictYoung, energetic with a rich cultural scene
Navy YardMud IslandFamily-friendly, riverside community
Foggy BottomEast MemphisUpscale, with premium amenities

Delving into the neighborhoods, if you relish the waterfront and upscale dining options of Georgetown, you'll find Harbor Town's chic ambiance with boutique shops like Miss Cordelia's Grocery as inviting. For those captivated by Dupont Circle's lively streets and blend of cultures, Cooper-Young in Memphis mirrors this energy with iconic spots like Cooper Young Historic District, fostering a sense of community alongside a rich cultural scene. Similarly, Adams Morgan's bustling nightlife and diversity closely resemble Overton Square, home to Memphis's best live theaters like Playhouse on the Square, encapsulating the vibrant spirit and diverse culinary scene comparable to its DC counterpart.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Memphis

  • Explore the Pink Palace Museum
  • Visit the Memphis Zoo
  • Stroll along Beale Street
  • Bike in Shelby Farms Park
  • Tour the National Civil Rights Museum
  • Enjoy BBQ on South Main
  • Watch a Grizzlies game at FedExForum

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Memphis

Moving from one city to another is a journey filled with both excitement and challenges. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Memphis, TN . By understanding both sides, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Political center
  • Smaller green spaces
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Lower living costs
  • Less congestion
  • Laid-back atmosphere
  • Larger parks
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Less diversity
  • Car-dependent
  • Smaller historical scope
  • Fewer museums
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Diverse culture
  • Extensive public transit
  • Rich history
  • Abundance of museums

When moving from the bustling political hub of Washington DC to the soulful streets of Memphis, TN, you're transitioning to a city where the rhythm of blues and barbecue scents fill the air. You'll find the cost of living significantly more affordable in Memphis, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle. The city's less congested roads offer ease of travel, and its expansive parks, like Shelby Farms Park, provide ample space for recreation and relaxation. Despite fewer museums than in DC, Memphis is rich in cultural landmarks such as the historic National Civil Rights Museum and the iconic Graceland. While you might miss DC's extensive public transportation, the unique charm and laid-back atmosphere of Memphis, coupled with its vibrant music scene and renowned eateries like Peggy Sue's BBQ, offer a refreshing new chapter in your life.

Washington DC vs. Memphis Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Memphis—an essential factor as food greatly influences the cultural vibe and living experience in a new city. By exploring the food scenes of both locations, you can look forward to embracing local flavors and dining traditions where you're moving.

Washington DCMemphis
Most iconic local food itemHalf-smokeBarbecue ribs
Most popular meat dishFried chicken & mambo saucePulled pork
Most popular street food itemFood trucks varietyElote
Most popular vegan foodVegetable forward bowlsBBQ tofu
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Chez Philippe
  • Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
  • Central BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Washington DC to Memphis, you'll transition from a city known for its international cuisine and bustling food truck scene to one celebrated for its deep-rooted barbecue culture. In Memphis, the smell of barbecue is almost inescapable, especially in areas like Downtown and Midtown, where iconic spots like Central BBQ serve up mouth-watering ribs and pulled pork that define the local food scene. However, Memphis is more than just barbecue. The city has seen a rise in vegan-friendly options, such as BBQ tofu, showcasing a diverse culinary scene that caters to a range of dietary preferences. Both cities have their unique tastes and restaurants beloved by locals—Memphis offers a warm, comforting embrace of Southern cooking, while Washington DC provides a cosmopolitan dining experience.

Washington DC vs. Memphis Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Washington DC to Memphis, TN, finding your new go-to restaurants can make the new city feel like home. This chart compares top Washington DC restaurants to their Memphis counterparts, aiming to ease your culinary transition. Whether you crave high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic meals, we've matched your DC favorites with Memphis locales, ensuring you don't miss a beat (or a bite).

Washington DCMemphisWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateBishopElegant, French-inspired cuisine in a chic setting
Bad SaintCasablancaAuthentic, intimate dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean and North African flavors
MaydanTagineRichly spiced North African dishes served in a cozy, inviting atmosphere
Ben's Chili BowlThe Four WayIconic, soulful dining spot with a touch of history
Rose's LuxuryRizzuto'sHigh-end, inventive dishes with a personal touch
ZaytinyaBabaluMediterranean flavors with a vibrant, modern twist
KomiFlight Restaurant & Wine BarExquisite tasting menus designed for a journey of flavors
2 Amy'sColetta'sTraditional Italian pizzeria with a reputation for its homemade pizzas and pastas
Busboys and PoetsCafe EclecticA hub for diversity, books, and comfort food
Thip KhaoBhan ThaiA treasure trove of Southeast Asian flavors, offering a menu that’s both authentic and innovative

While embracing your new life in Memphis, you'll discover culinary gems that cater to every palate. Bishop in Memphis parallels the sophistication of Le Diplomate, promising an unforgettable French dining experience. Meanwhile, fans of DC's Ben's Chili Bowl will find solace in the historic and soul-nourishing meals at The Four Way. For a taste of the Mediterranean that rivals Zaytinya, Babalu delights with its innovative twists on traditional flavors. Each Memphis eatery has been carefully selected to ensure that the transition from Washington DC doesn't mean leaving your dining preferences behind, but rather expanding them with local flair.

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Washington DC vs. Memphis Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most crucial factors when considering a move. Understanding the differences between your current city and potential new home is essential. This comparison focuses on aspects like housing costs, architecture, walkability, and the urban lifestyle between Washington DC and Memphis.

ComparisonWashington DCMemphis
Typical Architecture StyleFederal and VictorianColonial and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to monuments and museumsSpacious yards and quiet neighborhoods

Washington DC and Memphis offer contrasting living experiences. In DC, the high cost of living and dense, historic architecture reflect its urban, politically charged atmosphere. On the other hand, Memphis boasts a more affordable housing market, prominent in Colonial and Ranch-style homes, catering to those who prefer spacious living. The walkability and bikeability scores suggest DC's urban core is more accessible, whereas in Memphis, having a car is more of a necessity. These cities' unique characteristics demonstrate the varied American urban lifestyle, from the bustling streets of the capital to the music-filled avenues of Memphis.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Memphis, TN

1. Cooper-Young: This neighborhood is renowned for its pet-friendly restaurants and bars, where you can dine alongside your furry friend at places like Young Avenue Deli.

2. Midtown: Midtown offers plenty of green spaces and dog parks, such as Overton Park, making it perfect for pet owners who love outdoor activities with their pets.

3. Harbor Town: With its scenic walking trails along the Mississippi River and the dog-friendly Mud Island River Park, Harbor Town is ideal for pet owners who enjoy waterside walks.

Washington DC vs. Memphis Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Washington DC to Memphis, it's vital to understand how the weather differences between these two cities might impact your daily life. This comparison is designed to outline how the climate in Washington DC varies from that in Memphis , preparing you for what to expect.

Summer icon
87/71

Washington DC, DC

92/74

Memphis, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/30

Washington DC, DC

50/33

Memphis, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8

Washington DC, DC

53.7

Memphis, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4

Washington DC, DC

3.1

Memphis, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCMemphis
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, HurricanesTornadoes, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Washington DC and Memphis enjoy a broad range of seasonal weather, there are notable differences to consider. Memphis experiences slightly higher average temperatures in summer along with more days of sunshine annually, making it a warmer option. Winter in Memphis is also milder with significantly less snowfall when compared to DC. The higher average annual humidity and rainfall in Memphis reflect a more humid climate, which could influence your lifestyle, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. Understanding these variations will help you better prepare for your relocation.

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

When planning to move from one city to another, understanding the financial differences is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how your living expenses, taxes, and income might change. Highlights include the average household income , cost of living index , and the impact of state income tax between Washington DC and Memphis .

ComparisonWashington DCMemphis
Avg. Household Income$90,088$44,317
Cost of Living Index140.188.2
State Income Tax4%-10.75%Tennessee has no state income tax
Avg. Property Tax0.56%1.69%
Avg. Sales Tax6%9.25%
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional services, Information technologyTransportation and Warehousing, Health Services, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessLowModerate

Comparing financial aspects of living in Washington DC with Memphis reveals significant disparities. For instance, the average household income in Washington DC is notably higher than in Memphis, which reflects the high cost of living in the capital. While Washington DC residents afford a plethora of government and tech jobs, Memphis offers opportunities in transportation and health services. Interestingly, although Tennessee lacks a state income tax, Memphis's higher sales and property taxes might offset this benefit. This comparison suggests that, despite a lower cost of living in Memphis, one should consider the broader tax implications and job market differences when relocating.

Washington DC vs. Memphis Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison offers a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Memphis, designed to give you an understanding of the political and religious landscape you're moving into. Whether you're politically active or just curious about your new neighbors' perspectives, this snapshot will help you get acquainted.

Washington DCMemphis
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsFocused on federal and international issuesMore focused on local and state issues
ReligionDiverse, with no single denomination dominatingChristianity predominant, with a significant presence of Baptist and Methodist denominations

When relocating from Washington DC to Memphis, you will notice a shift in political and religious landscapes. Washington DC's political scene is heavily influenced by its status as the nation's capital, with a strong focus on federal and international issues, and it predominately supports Democratic candidates. In contrast, Memphis also leans Democratic but places a greater emphasis on local and state issues, reflecting the community's vested interest in the immediate environment and governance. Religion plays a significant role in Memphis, where Christianity, especially Baptist and Methodist denominations, is more prevalent. This religious makeup contributes to the city’s community events and social life. Understanding these dynamics can help you smoothly transition into your new home.

Washington DC vs. Memphis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Memphis, TN, it's crucial to compare the daily commute and traffic, as well as transportation options between Washington DC & Memphis. This will help you better understand what to expect in your new city.

ComparisonWashington DCMemphis
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.524.4
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

In Washington DC, you'll find yourself heavily relying on the city's well-developed public transportation system, which includes the Washington Metro and various bus services. This makes it quite possible to navigate the city without owning a car. Conversely, in Memphis, the need for a personal vehicle becomes much more significant due to less availability of public transit options. Although Memphis does offer bus services through MATA, the reach and frequency may not cover all areas comprehensively. Moreover, Memphis's lower traffic congestion scores reflect a city that's easier to drive in, aligning with the greater need for a car to comfortably get around.

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