Best Washington DC to Austin Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Austin and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,614 mile move from DC to Texas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Washington DC to Austin 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Austin. 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 Austin Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | MoverTron Moving | 9.44 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.43 | 9.39 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.30 | 9.38 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Austin
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,614 miles from Washington DC, DC to Austin, TX will cost on average $3,154 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Austin move is roughly $7,599. 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 | $2,118 | 300 ft³ | 7.06 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,154 | 450 ft³ | 7.01 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,219 | 750 ft³ | 6.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,599 | 1100 ft³ | 6.91 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,973 | 1600 ft³ | 6.86 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,255 | 1800 ft³ | 6.81 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Austin 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) |
MoverTron Moving
Briarcliff, TX, 78669
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4135479 / 1584479 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Heavenly Moving and Storage
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and Storage9311 N Fm 620
Austin, TX, 78726
About Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-quality packing...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3429695 / 1110864 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (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. Austin Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've crafted a guide comparing Washington DC, DC & Austin, TX neighborhoods . This comparison will help you find an Austin neighborhood that feels like home, based on what you loved about your Washington, DC area.
| Washington DC | Austin | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Hyde Park | Historic homes, local politics |
| Georgetown | Tarrytown | Upscale, shopping and dining |
| Dupont Circle | Clarksville | Diverse, artsy vibe |
| Adams Morgan | East Austin | Vibrant nightlife, multicultural |
| Shaw | South Congress | Trendy shops, music scene |
| Columbia Heights | Travis Heights | Diverse, family-friendly |
| Navy Yard | Rainey Street Historic District | Modern, nightlife |
| Foggy Bottom | Downtown Austin | Urban living, cultural attractions |
| Logan Circle | Zilker | Green spaces, outdoors activities |
| NoMa | Domain | Modern, upscale shopping and apartments |
In Washington DC, places like Georgetown and Capitol Hill offer a mix of historic charm with modern amenities. Georgetown, known for its bustling M Street with shops and upscale dining like Fiola Mare, finds its counterpart in Austin's Tarrytown, where chic boutiques and eateries such as Magnolia Café offer a similar vibe. Meanwhile, the vibrant arts scene and multicultural atmosphere of Adams Morgan are mirrored in East Austin, where venues like The White Horse showcase live music and an eclectic crowd. For outdoor enthusiasts, Zilker in Austin, with its proximity to green spaces like Zilker Metropolitan Park, echoes the vibe of Logan Circle’s community-focused living and its nearness to areas like Logan Circle Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Austin
Moving to a new city always involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Austin, TX . Through comparing the disadvantages and advantages, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what this move means for you.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Humid summers
- Heavy traffic
- Smaller green spaces
Austin, TX- Lower cost of living
- Milder climate
- Less congestion
- Larger parks
Austin, TX- High cost of living
- Humid summers
- Heavy traffic
- Smaller green spaces
Washington DC, DC- Lower cost of living
- Milder climate
- Less congestion
- Larger parks
In Washington DC, residents often grapple with the high cost of living and dense traffic, especially during rush hours. However, the city is renowned for its rich history and cultural landmarks such as the National Mall and the numerous museums affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution. Moving to Austin, TX, you'll enjoy a more favorable cost of living, allowing for a more relaxed lifestyle. Despite the shift to a milder climate, Austin summers can still be quite warm. The city boasts expansive green areas like Zilker Metropolitan Park, a hub for outdoor activities and events. Dining in Austin also offers a diverse experience with a vibrant food scene that includes famous spots like Franklin Barbecue for some of the best brisket in the country.
Washington DC vs. Austin Food Guide
Food significantly shapes the local culture and everyday life, offering a taste of what it's like living in different areas. In this regard, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Austin to help you get a better grasp of the culinary scene you're transitioning into.
| Washington DC | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Brisket |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce with Chicken Wings | Texas BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Peruvian Chicken | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Bowl | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While both Washington DC and Austin boast unique culinary scenes vibrant with diverse flavors, Washington DC is celebrated for its historical eateries and innovative vegan options, like the famed vegetable bowls found at trendy spots around the city. In contrast, Austin's heart beats with the smoky rhythms of BBQ pits, where brisket is a religion and tacos from food trucks serve as the daily bread throughout the city. Noteworthy is Franklin Barbecue, a pilgrimage site for meat lovers, whereas the diversity of street food, particularly the variety of tacos available at numerous food trucks around East Austin, showcases the city's informal culinary stature. Moreover, Austin's burgeoning vegan scene offers delights such as BBQ jackfruit, making it a city that adapts tradition to modern tastes.
Washington DC vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison
Relocating to a new city doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Austin is designed to ease your transition by guiding you to your next favorite eateries, using your current hometown favorites as a reference point.
| Washington DC | Austin | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Justine's Brasserie | Elegant French cuisine with a lively atmosphere |
| Rose's Luxury | Barley Swine | Innovative, American small plates in a cozy setting |
| Zaytinya | Phoenicia Bakery and Deli | Authentic Middle Eastern dishes and pastries |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Franklin Barbecue | Quintessential BBQ spot known for brisket and more |
| Fiola Mare | Perla's | Fresh seafood with a sophisticated seaside vibe |
| Bukom Cafe | C-Boys Heart & Soul | Eclectic live music venue with a similar cultural vibe |
| 1789 Restaurant | Olamaie | Southern cuisine with a modern twist, set in an elegant home |
| Komi | Uchiko | Refined and creative sushi and Japanese dishes |
| Old Ebbitt Grill | Scholz Garten | Historic beer garden offering traditional American fare |
| Daikaya | Ramen Tatsu-ya | Highly acclaimed spot for authentic ramen |
For those who cherish the ambiance and flavors of Le Diplomate in Washington DC, Justine's Brasserie in Austin offers a similar blend of exquisite French cuisine and a vibrant environment reminiscent of a Parisian sidewalk cafe. Meanwhile, lovers of the unique and cozy dining experience at Rose's Luxury will find a new haven at Barley Swine, where the focus on innovative, American small plates in a warm, inviting setting parallels the eclectic and friendly atmosphere they're leaving behind. On the other hand, if the iconic encounters at Ben's Chili Bowl have been a staple, the legendary brisket at Franklin Barbecue in Austin offers a taste of Texas BBQ culture that's hard to beat, providing a comforting and delicious way to start new culinary explorations in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Washington DC and Austin compare in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle is vital for making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Beaux-Arts | Modern and Hill Country |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to metro, historic charm | Open floor plans, outdoor living |
When comparing Washington DC and Austin in terms of real estate, key differences emerge that could influence your decision. Washington DC's higher median home price and rent reflect its status as the nation's capital, boasting historic architecture like Federal and Beaux-Arts styles. The city's high walkability and bikeability scores underscore a dense, urban environment conducive to a car-free lifestyle. Austin, on the other hand, favors modern and Hill Country architectural styles, emphasizing open floor plans and outdoor living spaces. Its slightly lower scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle points to a more spread-out cityscape, where embracing the outdoors and possibly owning a car could enrich your experience. Both cities cater to different preferences in urban living, with each offering unique amenities and lifestyles.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX
1. Zilker: This neighborhood is a paradise for your pets, offering the sprawling Zilker Metropolitan Park and the leash-free Barkin Springs, where your furry friends can play and splash to their heart's content.
2. South Congress: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, South Congress is pet-friendly with numerous cafes and shops like Jo's Coffee that welcome pets, making it the perfect neighborhood for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry companions.
3. Travis Heights: With its close proximity to the Stacy Parks and off-leash areas, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a community that values outdoor activities and has access to pet-friendly spaces.
Washington DC vs. Austin Weather Considerations
If you're considering a big move, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're used to can make the transition easier. Comparing the weather between Washington DC and Austin will help you prepare for the changes in climate and what to expect in your new home.
Washington DC, DC
Austin, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Austin, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Austin, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Austin, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Blizzards | Floods, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Washington DC to Austin means you'll experience hotter summers and milder winters, with a significant increase in the average summertime temperatures. Austin enjoys more sunny days each year, which pairs with its higher average UV index; thus, sunscreen becomes even more essential. While both cities have their share of natural disasters, the types vary, with Austin facing risks from floods and tornadoes, compared to DC’s blizzards and hurricanes. Air quality tends to be better in Austin, potentially benefiting those with respiratory issues. However, if allergies are a concern, it's important to note that Austin's infamous "cedar fever" could be a new challenge during winter months.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Austin
When considering a move from Washington DC to Austin, TX, it's crucial to compare financial and economic factors such as income, taxes, and cost of living. Understanding these differences can help prepare you for the financial transition between these cities.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $79,542 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 95.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0 - 8.95 | 0 (No state income tax in Texas) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 1.81 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
The transition from Washington DC to Austin encompasses significant financial and lifestyle changes beyond just the weather. Washington DC's higher average household income reflects its high cost of living and affluence, largely driven by government and professional services industries. Moving to Austin, you'll find a vibrant technology hub with no state income tax, which might offset the higher property taxes and sales tax compared to DC. Additionally, the cost of living in Austin is significantly lower, which could mean more disposable income despite the lower average household income. This transition may also influence your experience with affluence, poverty, and homelessness, as both cities tackle these issues differently.
Washington DC vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison
When contemplating a move from Washington DC to Austin, TX, a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Austin helps in understanding the shift you might experience. This comparison provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, offering insight into the local culture and community you'll be joining.
| Washington DC | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Liberal, with a progressive slant |
| Local Politics | Highly focused on national and international politics | Local issues and state politics play a significant role |
| Religion | Varied, with no single denomination dominating | Less religiously diverse than Washington DC |
Moving from Washington DC to Austin means transitioning from an environment where national and international politics often dominate the conversation to one where local and state issues hold more sway. In Washington DC, the political makeup is heavily Democratic, reflecting its role as the nation’s capital. Austin, while also leaning liberal, is known for its progressive approach to local governance and social issues, fostering a unique Texas culture that emphasizes individuality and innovation. Religion tends to play a different role in community life in both cities. Austin’s religious landscape is somewhat less diverse than that of Washington DC, which might affect your experience of local community and cultural events. Embracing these differences can offer a fresh perspective on what it means to be part of a community.
Washington DC vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Austin, TX? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Austin will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic situation might look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.9 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, quite easily | Possible, but challenging |
While both Washington DC and Austin, TX offer vibrant city life, the two cities differ significantly when it comes to daily commutes and transportation options. In DC, the high availability of public transit makes it easy for residents to get by without a car. The Metro and extensive bus networks cover most areas of the city efficiently. Conversely, in Austin, while there are public transit options like buses and the MetroRail, the city scores lower in public transit availability. This makes having a car more of a necessity in Austin compared to DC. Additionally, the average commute time in Austin is shorter than in DC, but both cities face their unique traffic congestion challenges.
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