Best Detroit to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 526 mile move from Michigan to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Detroit to Washington DC 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Washington DC. 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 Detroit to Washington DC 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 | Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | 8.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.44 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 526 miles from Detroit, MI to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $2,229 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Washington DC move is roughly $5,338. 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 | $1,501 | 300 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,229 | 450 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,677 | 750 ft³ | 4.90 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,338 | 1100 ft³ | 4.85 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,684 | 1600 ft³ | 4.80 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,554 | 1800 ft³ | 4.75 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Washington DC 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) |
Professional Movers.com
1001 Woodward Ave Suite 500
Detroit, MI, 48226
About Professional Movers.com
With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in statewide, cross-country,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 266582 / 178368 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 714,000 (2022) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
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.
Detroit vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've tailored a guide that highlights the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Washington DC, DC . This comparison will help you find a new neighborhood in Washington DC that feels like home, using your favorite Detroit neighborhood as a baseline.
| Detroit | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Dupont Circle | Vibrant arts scene and nightlife |
| Corktown | Capitol Hill | Historic homes and local eateries |
| Downtown | Penn Quarter | Busy urban life with diverse dining |
| Woodbridge | Shaw | Historic charm with a modern twist |
| Eastern Market | Eastern Market | Iconic market and community hub |
| Rosedale Park | Cleveland Park | Family-friendly with green spaces |
| Palmer Woods | Georgetown | Exclusive homes and upscale shopping |
| Indian Village | Kalorama | Stately homes with lush surroundings |
| West Village | Adams Morgan | Eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines |
| Greektown | Chinatown | Lively area with diverse cultural influences |
For those drawn to Midtown Detroit's vibrant arts scene and flourishing nightlife, Dupont Circle in Washington DC offers a comparable atmosphere, featuring galleries, live music venues, and a dynamic social scene. While Corktown boasts historic charm and a thriving local food scene, Capitol Hill similarly captivates with its stately homes and culinary diversity, including favorites like Eastern Market for fresh, local produce and crafts. If the bustling urban life of Downtown Detroit appeals to you, Penn Quarter will impress with its plethora of dining options and entertainment, including the famous Smithsonian American Art Museum. Identifying these parallels helps to make the unfamiliar familiar, easing the transition and helping you find your new neighborhood in Washington DC that resonates with the aspects of Detroit you know and love.
Things to Do in Washington DC
Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.- Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
- Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
- Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
- Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
- Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
- Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Washington DC
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting task. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Washington DC, DC. Understanding both the pros and cons will help you make a more informed decision about this significant change. Let's dive into the specifics to help you weigh your options.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Lower job opportunities
- Harsher winters
- Less public transit
- Smaller cultural scene
Washington DC, DC- Lower crime rate
- Higher job opportunities
- Milder winters
- Better public transit
- Larger cultural scene
Washington DC, DC- Higher cost of living
- Denser population
- Less prominent music scene
- Less car-dependent
- Higher taxes
Detroit, MI- Affordable housing
- Quaint neighborhoods
- Iconic music scene
- Strong car culture
- Lower taxes
While both Detroit and Washington DC offer unique benefits, it's essential to consider how these changes align with your lifestyle and priorities. For instance, DC's Metro system offers unparalleled access to the city and its outskirts, making it a haven for those who prefer public transportation over driving. The cultural scene in Washington DC is also notably rich, with landmarks such as the Smithsonian museums and the Kennedy Center providing countless opportunities for entertainment and education. On the flip side, Detroit's affordability and the unique charm of neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown, known for their vibrant music scenes and historical significance, present a different kind of allure. Moving to DC means adjusting to a higher cost of living and a denser population, which might take some getting used to if you're fond of the spaciousness and affordability Detroit offers. Weighing these variables carefully will help ensure your move is as rewarding as possible.
Detroit vs. Washington DC Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Washington DC provides a glimpse into the food culture of both areas. Understanding the food scene is crucial as it plays a significant role in the local culture and everyday life of where you'll be living.
| Detroit | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Mumbo Sauce Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Coney Dog | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Kebabs | Vegan Soul Food |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Detroit to Washington DC, you'll notice a significant shift in the food scene. Detroit is celebrated for its unique take on the coney dog, found at places like Lafayette Coney Island, while Washington DC champions the half-smoke, famously served at Ben's Chili Bowl. DC's foodie scene is vibrant, with a higher abundance of food trucks and a strong emphasis on vegan options like vegan soul food available at Busboys and Poets. In Detroit, while the vegan scene is growing, with spots like Detroit Vegan Soul leading the charge, the city is more known for its hearty meat dishes such as Detroit-style Pizza. If you're a food enthusiast moving to DC, you'll find the city's food scene diverse, with a higher emphasis on health and variety.
Detroit vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a monumental task, but finding comfort in your new city through food can make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Detroit, MI and Washington DC, DC will guide you to discover new favorite eateries inspired by your beloved spots back in Detroit.
| Detroit | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Le Diplomate | Chic bistro experience with a creative and seasonal menu. |
| Supino Pizzeria | 2Amys | Authentic Neapolitan pizzas in a cozy, bustling atmosphere. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Federalist Pig | Acclaimed for inventive barbecue dishes and a vibrant setting. |
| Rose's Fine Food | Call Your Mother | A beloved "Jew-ish" deli known for elevated breakfast and bagels. |
| Avalon International Breads | Baked & Wired | Famous for handcrafted bread, pastries, and a whimsical vibe. |
| La Feria | Estadio | Offers a dynamic Spanish tapas experience reminiscent of La Feria's European charm. |
| Wright & Company | Tabard Inn | Known for sophisticated dishes with a twist of innovation in an intimate setting. |
| Taqueria Mi Pueblo | Oyamel Cocina Mexicana | Celebrated for creative Mexican cuisine in a lively atmosphere. |
| Roast | Blue Duck Tavern | A destination for American cuisine with a focus on farm-to-table dining. |
| Dime Store | Founding Farmers | Offers homemade American classics with a modern twist. |
Finding parallels between Detroit and Washington DC's dining scenes means you won't have to miss the flavors of home. If you loved the European-inspired dishes and cozy vibe of La Feria, Estadio in Washington DC awaits to dazzle you with their authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere. For Detroit's barbecue aficionados, transitioning to Federalist Pig in DC will feel seamless, where the barbecue is both innovative and satisfyingly homely. Those craving the unique blend of artisanal bread and pastries from Avalon International Breads in Detroit will find solace in Baked & Wired's whimsical variety and top-notch quality in Washington DC.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a key aspect when planning a move, and understanding how Detroit and Washington DC compare helps make informed decisions. Here, we focus on housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to aid your transition.
| Comparison | Detroit | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Victorian and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious lots, historic homes | Proximity to public transport, rooftop decks |
While Detroit's housing market is significantly more affordable, with a median home price of $65,000, Washington DC's market is on the higher end, featuring a median home price of $656,000. The architecture styles between the two cities also differ, reflecting their unique cultural heritages. If walkability and urban lifestyle are high on your priority list, Washington DC outperforms Detroit, which might appeal more to those seeking spacious lots and historic homes. Both cities offer something unique depending on what you're looking for in a new home and lifestyle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington DC, DC
1. Adams Morgan: Known for its vibrant street life and diverse culture, Adams Morgan is extremely pet-friendly, offering numerous pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks like the Walter Pierce Park where your furry friends can play.
2. Capitol Hill: Aside from the iconic U.S. Capitol and historic ambiance, Capitol Hill features spacious parks such as the Congressional Cemetery, which doubles as a dog park, providing a unique space for you and your pet to explore.
3. Dupont Circle: This neighborhood boasts a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, with several pet-friendly parks like the Dupont Circle Fountain, and businesses that cater to your pet's needs, making it an ideal place for pet lovers.
Detroit vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Detroit to Washington DC, understanding the weather differences is crucial. How will Detroit's climate compare to Washington DC's weather? This comparison will help you prepare for the changes in your new city.
Detroit, MI
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Detroit to Washington DC will bring noticeable changes in your daily weather experiences. D.C. enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters compared to Detroit. This could mean lighter winter wear and more outdoor activities in the colder months. The higher average summer temperatures and humidity in D.C. also suggest that summers might feel a bit warmer than you're accustomed to. Additionally, be prepared for different natural disaster risks and pollen types, which could impact your preparedness for emergencies and allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Washington DC
When planning a move from Detroit, MI to Washington DC, it's essential to compare finances and lifestyle expectations. Understanding these differences ensures you can budget effectively and adapt to your new home. The comparison focuses on financial aspects significant to relocating from Detroit to Washington DC, providing insight into what changes to expect.
| Comparison | Detroit | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 8.95 (on incomes over $1 million) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Health Services | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Notable | Lesser |
The stark contrast in the average household income between Detroit and Washington DC highlights the significant economic differences you'll encounter upon moving. While Detroit's automotive, technology, and health services sectors offer opportunities, the government, professional services, and tourism industries in DC point to a diverse economic landscape with potentially higher earning potential. Additionally, the dramatic difference in the cost of living index underscores the necessity of preparing for a more expensive lifestyle in DC. Although both cities share the same average sales tax, the disparity in property tax rates and state income tax could significantly affect your finances depending on your income and housing choice.
Detroit vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
In making the transition from Detroit, MI to Washington, DC, it's worthwhile to explore this comparison of the politics between Detroit & Washington DC . This quick overview aims to provide a snapshot of the political and religious landscape you're moving from and into, giving you a clearer picture of the community you'll be joining.
| Detroit | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Heavily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Local governance focuses on urban revitalization and public safety. | Local issues often center around federal government impact, housing, and gentrification. |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with a significant presence of Islam. | Diverse religious landscape, with Christianity being predominant. |
While Detroit and Washington DC both lean heavily Democratic in terms of political makeup, the focus and implications of local politics differ markedly between the two cities. In Detroit, efforts are largely aimed at urban revitalization and addressing public safety concerns, reflecting the city's journey of recovery and growth. Washington DC, on the other hand, grapples with issues including the impact of the federal government's presence, housing affordability, and the effects of gentrification. Religion in both cities is predominantly Christianity, but Detroit has noted a significant Muslim community contributing to its cultural and religious diversity. This shift in dynamics can offer you a rich, nuanced experience as you make your new start in Washington DC.
Detroit vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences may change. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Washington DC will guide you through what to expect, helping you navigate your new city with ease.
| Comparison | Detroit | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Detroit has a shorter average commute time, you'll find that it heavily relies on car ownership due to its spread-out layout and limited public transit options. On the other hand, Washington DC boasts a robust public transportation network, including metros, buses, and biking facilities, making it feasible and often more convenient to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Despite facing higher levels of traffic congestion, the ability to lean on public transport in DC significantly eases the burden of getting around. Understanding these differences is key to easing your transition and planning your daily commute in your new environment.
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