Best Washington DC to Alexandria Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Alexandria and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 8 mile move from DC to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 69 Washington DC to Alexandria 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 ARS Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $3,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Alexandria. 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 Alexandria Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1ARS Movers9.639.76Authorized For HHGContact
2Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
3Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
4Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
5Ap Pro Moving Llc9.439.39ActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Alexandria

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 8 miles from Washington DC, DC to Alexandria, VA will cost on average $1,520 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Alexandria move is roughly $3,622. 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$1,026300 ft³3.42
1 Bedroom$1,520450 ft³3.38
2 Bedrooms$2,501750 ft³3.33
3 Bedrooms$3,6221100 ft³3.29
4 Bedrooms$5,2001600 ft³3.25
5+ Bedrooms$5,7731800 ft³3.21
*Please note: These DC to Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & Virginia. 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 VA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alexandria to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Alexandria Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

ARS Movers Logo

ARS Movers

Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA, 20170

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a...

Services

  • Local Moving (Residential Moving)
  • Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
  • Office Moving (Commercial Moving)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3260258 / 1027666

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved3 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
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
4
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
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. Alexandria Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding how your familiar neighborhood compares to your future home can ease the transition. This guide offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Alexandria, VA, intended to help you find a new neighborhood in Alexandria that feels like home. We explore similarities in ambiance, community vibes, and features to match you with your perfect Virginia neighborhood.

Washington DCAlexandriaHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleOld TownHistoric charm, vibrant nightlife
GeorgetownDel RayQuaint shops, community feel
Capitol HillRosemontHistoric homes, family-friendly
Logan CirclePotomac WestEclectic mix, close-knit community
Adams MorganArlandriaDiverse culture, lively events
Columbia HeightsWest EndDiverse population, urban convenience
U Street CorridorNorth RidgeVibrant streets, mix of dining options
Navy YardParker GrayGrowing area, modern amenities
ShawLynhavenHistoric roots, inviting community vibe
Foggy BottomEisenhower EastSleek developments, proximity to transit

For those who cherish the historic charm and lively atmosphere of Dupont Circle, Alexandria's Old Town will captivate you with its cobblestone streets and waterfront dining options. Imagine strolling down King Street, browsing through unique boutique shops much like M Street in Georgetown, but with the cozy, community feel reminiscent of Del Ray. For the arts and history enthusiasts, the Torpedo Factory Art Center offers a parallel to the culture-rich experiences in DC. Those fond of the diverse and bustling energy found in Columbia Heights might find Alexandria's West End to be an exciting urban environment, with an array of dining and shopping options that mirror the vibrancy found along 14th Street NW. Each of these neighborhoods provides a unique blend of experiences that cater to both old favorites and new discoveries, making your transition from Washington DC to Alexandria not just a change of address, but an extension of the lifestyle and community you've grown to love.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Alexandria

Moving from one city to another always comes with its share of changes. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Alexandria, VA . We've prepared comparative charts to help you weigh the pros and cons thoughtfully.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Higher living costs
  • Heavier traffic
  • Dense urban living
  • Fewer green spaces
Alexandria, VA iconAlexandria, VA
  • More affordable housing
  • Quieter streets
  • Suburban feel
  • More parks & trails
Alexandria, VA iconAlexandria, VA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less transit options
  • Fewer cultural institutions
  • Less historical density
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Vibrant city life
  • Extensive public transport
  • Wide array of museums
  • Rich historical landmarks

Moving to Alexandria, you'll enjoy the charm of neighborhoods like Old Town, known for its well-preserved historic architecture, waterfront parks, and unique boutiques. The Old Town Boutique District offers a wide range of shopping experiences that are a stark contrast to the larger chain stores found in DC. Alexandria's Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve and Mount Vernon Trail provide ample green space and trails for outdoor activities, an aspect that city dwellers from DC may find refreshing. The slower pace of life here, combined with easy access to the capital's resources, makes Alexandria an attractive option for many seeking balance between urban and suburban living.

Washington DC vs. Alexandria Food Guide

When relocating, understanding the local culture is vital, and what's on your plate plays a big role in that. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Alexandria to help you dive into the culinary scene of your new home.

Washington DCAlexandria
Most iconic local food itemHalf-smokeSeafood
Most popular meat dishFried chickenBeef brisket
Most popular street food itemFood trucks selectionsPretzels
Most popular vegan foodVegetable curryJackfruit tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Restaurant Eve
  • Hank's Oyster Bar
  • Virtue Feed & Grain
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Washington DC, the food scene is a melting pot of international cuisines, reflected in popular street food options and celebrated establishments like Ben's Chili Bowl and Zaytinya. Moving across the Potomac River to Alexandria, the vibe shifts slightly towards a more intimate dining experience, with seafood taking center stage to reflect its historic waterfront. Strolling through Old Town Alexandria, you'll find iconic eateries like Restaurant Eve and Hank's Oyster Bar nestled among charming boutiques, offering a taste of local flavors set against a backdrop of colonial history. Whether you're craving a hearty meat dish or exploring vegan options, each city presents a distinct culinary personality shaped by local culture and history.

Washington DC vs. Alexandria Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. Through this restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Alexandria, discover your next favorite dining spots, transitioning smoothly with familiar culinary delights.

Washington DCAlexandriaWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateBastilleClassic French cuisine with a similar vibe
ZaytinyaYaHalaAuthentic Middle Eastern flavors and mezze
Ben's Chili BowlHard Times CafeFamous for chili and a laid-back atmosphere
Bad SaintPadaekDelivers Southeast Asian dishes with bold flavors
Fiola MareVola's Dockside GrillOffers seafood with waterfront dining
Rose's LuxuryVermilionSeasonal American cuisine in an upscale setting
The DabneyMagnolia’s On KingSouthern-inspired comfort dishes
KomiBRABOFine dining with inventive plates
2 AmysLena's Wood-Fired Pizza & TapNeapolitan pizzas in a cozy atmosphere
BarminiPXSpeakeasy-style bar with creative cocktails

For lovers of fine dining and exquisite flavors, the transition from Zaytinya in Washington DC to YaHala in Alexandria offers a delightful exploration of Middle Eastern gastronomy, ensuring the continuity of culinary excellence. Similarly, if you're moving from the vibrant streets near Ben's Chili Bowl, rest assured that Hard Times Cafe in Alexandria will satisfy those comfort food cravings with its iconic chili dishes and homey ambiance. This thoughtful comparison paves the way for seamless culinary adventures, bridging new experiences with familiar tastes.

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Washington DC vs. Alexandria Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is critical. This guide looks closely at Washington DC and Alexandria, focusing on housing aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences will ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your wants and needs.

ComparisonWashington DCAlexandria
Typical Architecture StyleFederal and VictorianColonial and Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to metro, historic charmQuiet neighborhoods, waterfront views

In both Washington DC and Alexandria, the housing market reflects a blend of historical charm and modern convenience. Although homes in DC typically carry a higher price tag, the extra cost brings a more urban lifestyle and better accessibility to public transit, with many listings highlighting proximity to the metro. Alexandria, while slightly less walkable and bikeable, offers its own appeal with more affordable housing, quieter neighborhoods, and picturesque waterfront views. Each city's architecture speaks to its unique historical background, with Federal and Victorian styles common in DC, while Alexandria boasts a wealth of Colonial and Cape Cod homes. These differences are essential to weigh based on your lifestyle preferences and commuting needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Alexandria, VA

1. Del Ray: Known for its welcoming community and variety of pet-friendly cafes and restaurants, Del Ray lets you enjoy outdoor dining experiences with your furry friend by your side.

2. Old Town: With its waterfront parks, such as Founders Park, and abundance of pet-friendly shops, Old Town is perfect for leisurely strolls and shopping with your pet.

3. Potomac Yard: This neighborhood features spacious pet-friendly apartments and easy access to the Potomac Yard Park, which includes a dedicated dog park for your pet to play and meet other dogs.

Washington DC vs. Alexandria Weather Considerations

When relocating, it's vital to understand how the weather in your new home compares to what you're used to. This comparison between Washington DC and Alexandria highlights the main differences you might experience, helping you prepare for your move.

Summer icon
88°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

87°F / 70°F

Alexandria, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

46°F / 28°F

Alexandria, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.7

Washington DC, DC

40.0

Alexandria, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
13.8

Washington DC, DC

14.5

Alexandria, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCAlexandria
Air QualityModerateModerate
Natural DisastersThunderstorms, Winter StormsThunderstorms, Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Relocating from Washington DC to Alexandria won't bring dramatic changes in weather, but there are subtle differences to note. Alexandria enjoys slightly more days of sunshine annually and a bit more snow in the winter, potentially affecting your outdoor plans or commute. However, both cities experience similar summer temperatures and humidity levels, meaning your transition in terms of wardrobe and indoor climate control should be fairly smooth. The similarities in air quality and top seasonal allergies mean that any adjustments you've made for comfort and health in DC will still be beneficial in Alexandria.

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

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be impacted. This chart compares key financial aspects of living in Washington DC and Alexandria, VA, giving you a clearer view of what to expect in terms of income, taxes, and living expenses. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision about your move.

ComparisonWashington DCAlexandria
Avg. Household Income$90,088$101,162
Cost of Living Index140.1140.1
State Income Tax8.55.75
Avg. Property Tax0.561.03
Avg. Sales Tax6.06.0
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional Services, TechnologyDefense, Professional Services, Technology
AffluenceHighVery High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessNotableLower

Moving from Washington DC to Alexandria, VA, you'll notice several financial advantages. While the average household income in Alexandria is higher, the cost of living index is significantly lower compared to DC, allowing for a potentially higher quality of life. Additionally, the state income tax in Virginia is substantially less, which can result in considerable savings over time. Despite Alexandria’s higher average property tax rate, the overall affluence and lower poverty levels suggest a thriving local economy and a strong job market, particularly within the defense, professional services, and technology sectors. Understanding these financial dynamics is crucial in preparing for your move and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home city.

Washington DC vs. Alexandria Political & Religious Comparison

This quick guide offers a snapshot comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Alexandria to provide you with an at-a-glance perspective on the political and religious makeup of their residents. Understanding these elements can help you get a sense of the communities you'll be moving into or from.

Washington DCAlexandria
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticMostly Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on federal government impactMore diverse local issues
ReligionVaried, with significant African American churchesA diverse religious landscape, including Historic Christ Church

While both Washington DC and Alexandria lean Democratic politically, there's a nuanced difference in their political engagement. In DC, the proximity to federal power centers shapes local politics with a national lens, whereas Alexandria's local governance tackles a broader spectrum of municipal concerns. The religious environment in both locales is diverse, but Alexandria boasts notable landmarks, such as the Historic Christ Church, highlighting its rich historical roots in American religious and social life.

Washington DC vs. Alexandria Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Alexandria, VA, it's crucial to understand the difference in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison will give you insights into what your daily commute might look like, helping you to navigate your new surroundings more efficiently.

ComparisonWashington DCAlexandria
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)29.831.8
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with limitationsYes, but less convenient

While both Washington DC and Alexandria, VA offer robust public transportation options, DC's system, including the Metro and bus services, is more extensive, leading to a higher availability score. However, traffic congestion is notably higher in Washington DC. The average commute time in Alexandria is slightly longer due, in part, to fewer direct routes and options for public transit compared to its neighbor. Notably, both cities technically allow for a car-free lifestyle, but this is more feasible and convenient in Washington DC due to its more comprehensive public transit system and better walkability.

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