Best Boston to Richmond Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Richmond and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 559 mile move from Massachusetts to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 60 Boston to Richmond 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Richmond. 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 Boston to Richmond Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Estes SureMove | 9.21 | 9.68 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA | 9.19 | 9.58 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Richmond
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 559 miles from Boston, MA to Richmond, VA will cost on average $1,918 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Richmond move is roughly $4,595. 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 | $1,291 | 300 ft³ | 4.30 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,918 | 450 ft³ | 4.26 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,165 | 750 ft³ | 4.22 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,595 | 1100 ft³ | 4.18 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,616 | 1600 ft³ | 4.13 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,366 | 1800 ft³ | 4.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Richmond 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) |
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) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |
Estes SureMove
3901 W Broad St
Richmond, VA, 23230
About Estes SureMove
The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...
Services
- Home moving
- Employee relocations
- Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 121018 / 97275 Authorized For Property Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9,075 |
| Registered Drivers | 8,573 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 586,187,648 (2023) |
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
424 E Grace St # 92
Richmond, VA, 23219
About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Moving Helpers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3865625 / 1413617 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,000 (2023) |
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.
Boston vs. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be disorienting, but comparing neighborhoods from your old city to your new one can provide a sense of familiarity. In this guide, we're offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Richmond, VA . By highlighting equivalent areas, we aim to make your transition smoother, helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Boston | Richmond | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | The Fan | Historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene |
| Beacon Hill | Church Hill | Historic homes, picturesque streets |
| South End | Carytown | Eclectic shops, diverse dining options |
| North End | Scott's Addition | Rich in history, booming food and brew scene |
| Fenway | The Diamond | Sports-centric area with lively entertainment options |
| Cambridge | VCU Area | Educational hub, young demographic |
| Charlestown | Shockoe Bottom | Waterfront views, deep roots in American history |
| Jamaica Plain | Forest Hill | Lush parks, community-focused, arts scene |
| Seaport District | Rocketts Landing | Modern waterfront living, dining, and recreation |
| South Boston | Manchester | Industrial chic, waterfront activities |
If you're drawn to the historical charm and cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill, you'll find a similar aesthetic and pace in Church Hill, where each corner is steeped in stories, and local cafes like Proper Pie Co. offer a cozy retreat. For those who thrive in the vibrant, eclectic atmosphere of the South End, Carytown's bustling scene, dotted with unique shops like Chop Suey Books and the historic Bygones Vintage Clothing, promises a seamless transition. Moving from a sports-centric area like Fenway? The Diamond district in Richmond mirrors that energy, with the addition of popular breweries such as Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, ensuring your weekends are always lively.
Things to Do in Richmond
Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.- Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
- View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
- Attend a concert at The National venue.
- Paddleboarding on James River.
- Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
- Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Richmond
Moving can be a significant life choice, packed with both opportunities for fresh experiences and challenges to overcome. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Boston, MA to Richmond, VA . We delve into the nuances of both the benefits and drawbacks of such a relocation. The purpose of the following charts is to offer a balanced perspective, highlighting the contrasts in living conditions, lifestyle, and the environment of these two distinct cities.
Boston, MA- Higher living costs
- Harsh winters
- More traffic congestion
- Smaller green spaces
Richmond, VA- Lower living costs
- Milder winters
- Less traffic
- Larger parks
Richmond, VA- Smaller cultural scene
- Less public transit
- Fewer higher ed choices
- Less historic prestige
Boston, MA- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Prestigious universities
- Historic landmarks
Moving from Boston to Richmond offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a lifestyle marked by lower living costs and milder winters, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to activities and less to utilities. Richmond is celebrated for its expansive parks like the James River Park System, an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. On the flip side, Boston's renowned cultural institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and educational landmarks such as Harvard University provide a rich tapestry of intellectual and cultural experiences. While Richmond might have fewer higher education options, institutions like Virginia Commonwealth University offer quality education and a growing research footprint. In essence, this relocation brings forth the charm of a smaller city with less congestion, combined with the historical and natural beauty of Virginia.
Boston vs. Richmond Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Richmond, emphasizing how food is a pivotal part of local culture and can greatly influence the living experience in a new city. Understanding the culinary landscape of both cities can help you better integrate into your new home.
| Boston | Richmond | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Pimento Cheese |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Virginia Ham |
| Most popular street food item | Cannoli | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Sandwiches | Jackfruit BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Boston to Richmond, you'll notice a delightful shift in the local food scene. Boston's iconic clam chowder and scrumptious lobster rolls give way to Richmond's cozy Southern comforts like pimento cheese and Virginia ham. Richmond is a haven for food lovers, featuring a diverse and vibrant range of culinary delights. Notably, the city's Jackson Ward neighborhood is renowned for its dynamic dining scene with places like Mama J's Kitchen, offering a taste of soulful Southern cuisine. Meanwhile, the vegan scene is flourishing in Richmond, with innovative establishments like LaMar showcasing how plant-based dining is deeply embedded in the city's food culture.
Boston vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a monumental task, and finding those perfect dining spots is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the culinary gap from Boston to Richmond, assisting you in discovering your next favorite eateries. Let the tastes of both cities guide you on this delicious journey.
| Boston | Richmond | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Oleana | Lehja | Indian fine dining with a twist of innovation |
| Neptune Oyster | Rappahannock Oyster Bar | Celebrated for fresh oysters and sea fare |
| Mike's Pastry | Shyndigz | Famous for its sweet endings and eclectic desserts |
| Toro | Kuba Kuba | A nod to robust flavors and vibrant tapas scene |
| Santarpio's Pizza | 8 1/2 | Classic, no-frills spot for pizza lovers |
| Craigie On Main | L'Opossum | High-end dining with a quirky, creative menu |
| Union Oyster House | Boat House | Waterfront dining with an emphasis on seafood and tradition |
| Flour Bakery + Café | Sub Rosa Bakery | Renowned for artisan breads and pastries |
| Fenway Frank | JJ's Meat Shack | Iconic for its BBQ and casual eats, a similar cultural fixture |
| The Capital Grille | Buckhead's | Steaks and chops served in an upscale setting |
When diving deeper into the culinary offerings from Boston and Richmond, several establishments stand out for their exceptional dining experiences. For instance, Oleana in Boston, known for its innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine, finds its match in Lehja's modern take on Indian cuisine in Richmond, showcasing the importance of innovation in the kitchen. Similarly, Neptune Oyster's dedication to providing the freshest seafood echoes in Richmond's Rappahannock Oyster Bar, where the emphasis on locally sourced oysters and sustainability stands out. Moreover, for those with a sweet tooth, the transition from Mike's Pastry to Shyndigz will be seamless, thanks to the latter’s expansive dessert menu that promises a memorable end to any meal. These comparisons not only highlight the diversity and quality of dining options in both cities but also reassure that Richmond's culinary scene is capable of catering to all palates, ensuring a smooth cultural transition for Boston newcomers.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts
Realizing the dream of a new home involves many factors, but understanding the real estate landscape is crucial . Comparing Boston, MA to Richmond, VA in terms of housing provides a deep dive into cost, architecture, and lifestyle, making your decision well-informed.
| Comparison | Boston | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian & Brick Row Houses | Colonial & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transportation, Historic districts | Spacious layouts, Green spaces |
When considering a move from Boston to Richmond, the stark differences in housing costs and lifestyles stand out. Boston's high median home price and rent reflect its urban lifestyle, with a high walkability score emphasizing its compact city structure. In contrast, Richmond offers a more affordable housing market, with properties often boasting spacious layouts and access to green spaces—a reflection of its blend between urban convenience and a touch closer to nature. The architecture in both cities tells a story of their historical and cultural development, from Victorian and brick row houses dominating Boston's neighborhoods to Richmond's diverse colonial and modern designs. Reflecting on these aspects can help tailor your expectations and prepare you for the life that awaits in your new city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA
1. The Fan: Famed for its high walkability scores, dog-friendly restaurants like City Dogs, and numerous pet boutiques, The Fan ensures your furry friend will be well-catered to.
2. Shockoe Bottom: With access to places like Chimney Park, a dedicated dog park, and a plethora of pet-friendly housing options, Shockoe Bottom offers a bustling, pet-friendly environment.
3. Museum District: Known for its tree-lined, walkable streets, the Museum District combines convenience for you and quality of life for your pets with places like Barky's, a popular pet store.
Boston vs. Richmond Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, it becomes crucial to understand the weather differences between Boston, MA, and Richmond, VA to adjust expectations and preparations. This comparison aims to outline how the atmosphere varies from Boston to Richmond , offering insights into what you might expect throughout the year.
Boston, MA
Richmond, VA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Richmond, VA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Richmond, VA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Richmond, VA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good-Moderate | Good-Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Nor'easters | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Boston to Richmond, you'll notice several distinct changes in weather patterns and conditions. Richmond enjoys a slightly warmer climate year-round, with notably warmer summers and milder winters compared to Boston. This can be a significant change if you're accustomed to Boston's brisk winters and relatively mild summer temperatures. While both cities experience a good amount of sunshine annually, Richmond offers a few more sunny days a year, which might appeal to those looking for more outdoor activity time. Furthermore, while Boston faces blizzards and nor'easters, moving to Richmond means preparing for different natural disaster risks, such as hurricanes and thunderstorms, highlighting the importance of understanding local weather patterns for your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Richmond
Moving from Boston, MA to Richmond, VA? Understanding the financial implications is essential. This comparison offers insight into how your cost of living, taxes, and income may change between Boston and Richmond, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Boston | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $51,770 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 104.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.17 | 0.80 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 5.3 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Finance | Government, Finance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
When comparing Boston and Richmond, the lower cost of living index and median household income in Richmond indicate a potentially more affordable lifestyle. However, it's important to consider the slightly higher state income tax. Property and sales taxes are more favorable in Richmond, providing some financial relief. The prominent industries in both cities reflect differing economic landscapes, with Boston focusing on education and health services, while Richmond boasts strength in government and manufacturing sectors. Consider how these factors align with your career prospects and lifestyle preferences when planning your move.
Boston vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Boston, MA to Richmond, VA offers an opportunity to experience a different cultural and social environment. This short guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Boston & Richmond, offering insights into what you might expect as you transition from one city to the other.
| Boston | Richmond | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Moderate to liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic dominance | Mix of Democratic and Republican influence |
| Religion | Catholic majority, with a mix of other Christian denominations and religions | Christian majority, with significant Baptist presence and diverse other religious communities |
The political landscapes of Boston and Richmond share liberal tendencies, but you'll discover Richmond's politics to be somewhat more varied, reflecting a mix of Democratic and Republican influences. This diversity can be seen in local governance and policy directions that impact everyday life. Religion plays a central role in both cities, but their expressions differ. Boston's Catholic roots are deep, influenced by its history of Irish and Italian immigration. Richmond, while also Christian-majority, showcases a stronger Baptist presence, alongside other vibrant religious communities, including diverse places of worship. This blend of political and religious makeup shapes the cultural fabric of each city, offering you a unique perspective on life in the American South compared to the Northeast.
Boston vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA to Richmond, VA? Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic as well as transportation options between Boston & Richmond can help you better prepare for your relocation.
| Comparison | Boston | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
When relocating from Boston to Richmond, you'll find some noticeable differences in commuting and getting around. Boston's public transportation system, rated highly, allows residents to navigate the city without a car reasonably well, making it less dependent on personal vehicles. This is in contrast to Richmond, where public transit options are more limited, and having a car becomes more of a necessity for daily commute and errands. While Boston experiences higher levels of traffic congestion due to its dense population and narrow streets, Richmond offers a more relaxed commute with significantly less congestion. However, the average commute time in Richmond is surprisingly close to that of Boston, likely due to the different geographical layouts and traffic flows in each city.
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