Best Boston to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,933 mile move from Massachusetts to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 64 Boston to Tacoma 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 $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Tacoma. 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 Tacoma 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 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Tacoma
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,933 miles from Boston, MA to Tacoma, WA will cost on average $4,275 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Tacoma move is roughly $10,341. 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 | $2,865 | 300 ft³ | 9.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,275 | 450 ft³ | 9.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,088 | 750 ft³ | 9.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,341 | 1100 ft³ | 9.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,962 | 1600 ft³ | 9.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,742 | 1800 ft³ | 9.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Tacoma 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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
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. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's landscape. To ease this transition, we've designed a comparison that illuminates the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Tacoma, WA . This guide aims to help you find a neighborhood in Tacoma that mirrors the vibe and amenities of your favorite Boston area, making your move a little easier.
| Boston | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | North Slope | Historic architecture, vibrant community |
| Beacon Hill | Old Town | Historic charm, sense of community |
| South End | Stadium District | Artsy vibe, eclectic dining |
| North End | Proctor District | Rich heritage, culinary hotspot |
| Fenway-Kenmore | Hilltop | Diverse community, close to parks |
| Jamaica Plain | 6th Avenue | Creative spirit, unique shops |
| Dorchester | Lincoln International District | Cultural diversity, vibrant food scene |
| South Boston | Ruston | Waterfront views, burgeoning scene |
| Charlestown | Point Defiance | Historic landmarks, scenic parks |
| Allston-Brighton | Central Tacoma | Young energy, affordable living |
When moving from Boston's Beacon Hill, known for its narrow, gas-lit streets and historic federal-style rowhouses, to Tacoma's Old Town, you'll find a similar charm in the area’s rich history and preserved architecture. For those who appreciate the artsy and eclectic vibe of Boston's South End, Tacoma's Stadium District will appeal with its unique blend of historic homes, cozy cafes, and local art galleries like Tacoma Art Museum. Bostonians leaving the culinary hotspot of North End will find a new haven in the Proctor District, renowned for its local eateries and bustling farmers market. And if you're trading the waterfront views and bustling atmosphere of South Boston for Tacoma, Ruston provides a serene yet developing waterfront experience coupled with boutique shopping and dining options, much like the beloved Castle Island.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Tacoma
Moving across the country is a big decision. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Tacoma, WA. To help you make an informed decision, we've compared the cons to the pros and vice versa, giving you a comprehensive overview of what to expect from this significant change.
Boston, MA- Higher living costs
- Colder winters
- Heavier traffic
- Fewer green spaces
Tacoma, WA- More affordable housing
- Milder winters
- Less congestion
- Abundant parks
Tacoma, WA- Younger city
- Fewer museums
- Less developed transit
- Smaller academic presence
Boston, MA- Richer history
- More cultural venues
- Better public transit
- Renowned universities
While Boston boasts a rich historical tapestry and an array of cultural venues like the Museum of Fine Arts and Boston Public Garden, Tacoma offers a slightly different appeal. Tacoma's charm lies in its natural beauty, with places like Point Defiance Park and the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium providing abundant green spaces and outdoor activities that are harder to come by in Boston's dense urban environment. The cost of living in Tacoma is more affordable, especially housing, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollars further. However, it's worth noting that Tacoma's public transit system isn't as developed as Boston's MBTA, possibly affecting those who rely on public transportation.
Boston vs. Tacoma Food Guide
When relocating, it's crucial to get a taste of the local flavor, as food is a vital part of any area's culture and daily life. In this guide, we're embarking on a culinary journey to compare the food scenes of your current and future cities. This comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Tacoma, WA will help you savor what awaits on both ends of your move.
| Boston | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Cannoli | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Both Boston and Tacoma offer unique and appealing culinary experiences reflective of their local heritage and modern trends. In Boston, the North End is famous for its Italian cuisine, where cannolis from Mike's Pastry are a must-try. Meanwhile, Legal Sea Foods provides an exemplary Boston seafood experience with its clam chowder. Tacoma surprises many with its rich seafood tradition, showcased at places like The Table and WildFin American Grill, focusing on fresh, local ingredients like Dungeness crab and Pacific Northwest salmon. The city's robust food truck scene and vegan-friendly options, including trendy acai bowls, ensure that there's something delicious for every palate.
Boston vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial part in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Boston to Tacoma is designed to aid you in discovering your new favorite dining spots, using your current favorites as a guide.
| Boston | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Oleana | Marzano Italian Restaurant | Authentic Italian dishes with a local twist. |
| Uni | Indo Asian Street Eatery | Offers inventive Asian fusion cuisine reminiscent of Uni's creativity. |
| Neptune Oyster | WildFin American Grill | Known for its fresh seafood selection that rivals Neptune's quality. |
| Craigie On Main | Asado | Elevated dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. |
| Toro | The Matador | Renowned for its eclectic mix of Spanish dishes and vibrant atmosphere. |
| Flour Bakery + Café | Corina Bakery | Cozy spot offering a wide variety of baked goods and casual eats. |
| No. 9 Park | El Gaucho | Upscale dining offering meticulously prepared dishes and an extensive wine list. |
| Mamma Maria | Villa Caffe and Imbibery | Captures the essence of Italian dining with a focus on family-style servings. |
| Sarma | EastWest | Mixes Eastern and Western cuisine for a unique dining experience akin to Sarma's innovation. |
| Mike's City Diner | Shakabrah Java | Offers hearty American breakfast and lunch options, maintaining a diner's charm. |
For those who have loved the innovative Asian fusion dishes at Uni in Boston, Indo Asian Street Eatery in Tacoma stands as a worthy counterpart, offering inventive flavors that spark curiosity and delight. Similarly, seafood enthusiasts moving from the Atlantic ambiance of Neptune Oyster will find a seamless transition to WildFin American Grill, where the commitment to fresh, quality seafood continues amidst the breathtaking views of the Pacific. Lastly, for a taste of Italian reminiscent of Boston’s North End at Mamma Maria, Villa Caffe and Imbibery serves as Tacoma’s beacon of Italian hospitality and warmth, ensuring a finely curated experience of family-style dining. Each Tacoma equivalent encapsulates the essence of its Boston counterpart, promising a gastronomic adventure that feels both new and familiar.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate—one of the most crucial aspects—between your current and future cities is key to making an informed decision. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between Boston, MA, and Tacoma, WA helps visualize your life in a new place.
| Comparison | Boston | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Victorian | Craftsman, Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Location, Historic Details | Views, Spacious Yards |
Comparing Boston and Tacoma reveals significant differences in real estate dynamics. Boston's higher median home price and rent reflect its dense, urban environment and historical buildings. Its architecture often features Colonial and Victorian styles, and it boasts higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores. In contrast, Tacoma offers a more affordable housing market, with Craftsman and Mid-Century Modern styles prevalent and features like views and spacious yards highlighted in listings. Despite Boston's higher walk and bike scores, Tacoma provides a balance of urban and suburban living that appeals to many looking for a less crowded, yet still vibrant, lifestyle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
Boston vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Boston, MA to Tacoma, WA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison gives insight into what you can expect, making your transition smoother. Let's compare the weather conditions in Boston and Tacoma to help you prepare for your new home.
Boston, MA
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Boston to Tacoma, you'll notice milder winters and cooler summers in Tacoma, making it comfortable for those not fond of extreme temperatures. The significant reduction in snowfall from 48" in Boston to 6.2" in Tacoma means less shoveling and smoother winter commutes. However, be prepared for fewer sunny days, as Tacoma averages 141 sunny days annually compared to Boston's 200. Both cities share similar humidity levels and top seasonal allergies, so if you're sensitive to pollen or mold, it would be wise to prepare as you would in Boston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Tacoma
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate how money and finance factors, from Boston, MA to Tacoma, WA , affect those contemplating the transition.
| Comparison | Boston | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2 | 1.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 10.2 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Care, Finance | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
While Boston boasts a higher average household income than Tacoma, it's important to note that this figure is offset by a significantly higher cost of living index. Although Washington State’s 0% income tax is a notable benefit for Tacoma residents, this advantage could be diluted by the city's higher sales tax rate compared to Boston. The economic landscape, characterized by leading industries such as Education and Health Care in Boston versus Manufacturing in Tacoma, hints at differing job opportunities and economic environments between the two cities. Reflecting on these factors provides a deeper understanding of the financial climate awaiting you in Tacoma compared to Boston.
Boston vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents comparing Boston & Tacoma, aiding in understanding the community landscape before your move. Whether it's about navigating local politics or joining religious congregations, knowing what to expect can help you settle in more comfortably.
| Boston | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Diverse representation in city council | A focus on social issues and community engagement |
| Religion | Catholics dominate, with significant Jewish and Protestant communities. Archdiocese of Boston | Diverse religious landscape, notable presence of Christians and Buddhists. Tacoma Buddhist Temple |
Both Boston and Tacoma share a liberal/Democratic leaning in their political makeup, encouraging a progressive and inclusive environment. In Boston, the diverse representation within the city council reflects its demographic variety, whereas Tacoma places a strong emphasis on social issues, promoting active community engagement. Religion in Boston is predominantly Catholic, supported by historic institutions like the Archdiocese of Boston. Meanwhile, Tacoma offers a diverse religious landscape, including a significant Buddhist community represented by establishments such as the Tacoma Buddhist Temple, indicative of its inclusive and varied cultural fabric.
Boston vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA to Tacoma, WA means adapting to new traffic and transportation dynamics. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Tacoma is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in your new city.
| Comparison | Boston | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Challenging |
While Boston's average commute time might only be slightly longer than Tacoma's, the difference in traffic congestion ratings represents a significant variation in daily commuting experiences. Boston scores higher in terms of public transit availability, boasting a network that includes the MBTA's subway lines, buses, and commuter rail services, making it feasible for residents to get by without a car. In contrast, Tacoma’s public transit services, including the Pierce Transit buses and the Tacoma Link light rail, are still expanding and improving, which might make living without a car more challenging, yet not impossible, pointing towards a gradually improving scenario for non-car owners.
Additional Resources
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