Best Cary to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Cary to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 278 mile move from North Carolina to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Cary to Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Cary 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 Cary 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 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Cary to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 278 miles from Cary, NC to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,715 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cary to Washington DC move is roughly $4,099. 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 | $1,156 | 300 ft³ | 3.85 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,715 | 450 ft³ | 3.81 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,826 | 750 ft³ | 3.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,099 | 1100 ft³ | 3.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,894 | 1600 ft³ | 3.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,554 | 1800 ft³ | 3.64 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Cary guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cary 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (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.
Cary vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Are you planning on moving from Cary, NC, to Washington DC, DC? We created this guide to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings by comparing the local neighborhoods between Cary, NC & Washington DC, DC. By identifying similar neighborhoods, we aim to make your transition as seamless and comfortable as possible.
| Cary | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Preston | Chevy Chase | Affluent, golf course nearby |
| Amberly | Tenleytown | Family-friendly, great schools |
| Green Level | Palisades | Lush, near nature preserves |
| Carpenter Village | Glover Park | Historic homes, community-centric |
| Cameron Pond | Cleveland Park | Quiet, family-oriented |
| Highcroft | Capitol Hill | Historic, vibrant community |
| Lochmere | Georgetown | Waterfront access, upscale |
| MacGregor Downs | Woodley Park | Elegant, borders a zoo |
| Regency | Dupont Circle | Cultural hub, active nightlife |
| Wellsley | Bloomingdale | Residential charm, historic |
For those moving from Preston in Cary, the Chevy Chase neighborhood in Washington, DC, might feel quite similar, offering affluent communities with access to country clubs and golf courses. Similarly, if you've enjoyed the family-friendly atmosphere and top-tier schools in Amberly, Tenleytown in DC will welcome you with its similar vibe and excellent educational institutions. Carpenter Village's historical homes and tight-knit community feel find a match in Glover Park, with its inviting streets and seasonal farmer's market, such as the Glover Park-Burleith Farmers Market. Moreover, if Lochmere's lakeside living and upscale amenities were your favorite, Georgetown will enchant you with its waterfront dining options, such as those found at the Washington Harbour, and luxury retail experiences. Transitioning to a new city is always a challenge, but finding a neighborhood that feels like home can make all the difference.
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 Cary to Washington DC
Moving from one city to another comes with its share of changes. This guide provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Cary, NC to Washington DC, DC, to help you weigh your options carefully. Understanding both the cons and pros is essential for making an informed decision about your move.
Cary, NC- Lower job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less public transportation
- Slower pace of life
Washington DC, DC- Higher job opportunities
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transport
- Dynamic urban lifestyle
Washington DC, DC- Busier neighborhoods
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer green spaces
- More traffic congestion
Cary, NC- Quieter neighborhoods
- Lower cost of living
- More green spaces
- Less traffic congestion
Moving from Cary to Washington DC introduces you to a vibrant urban lifestyle marked by a bustling cultural scene with renowned museums like the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art, and historical sites such as the Lincoln Memorial and the White House. While Cary offers a more laid-back lifestyle and lower cost of living, DC's dynamic environment offers unparalleled job opportunities, especially in politics, international affairs, and research sectors. Though DC's cost of living and traffic congestion might take some getting used to, the city's extensive public transportation system, featuring the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), makes navigating the city manageable. Furthermore, despite a perceived decrease in green spaces, DC is home to beautiful parks like Rock Creek Park, offering a slice of nature amidst the urban landscape.
Cary vs. Washington DC Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Cary & Washington DC provides insight into the food scenes of each, illustrating an important part of living in these areas. With this guide, you'll be better acquainted with the culinary delights awaiting you.
| Cary | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Kimchi Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegetable Curry |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Cary, you'll find a charming blend of Southern classics and modern twists. The North Carolina BBQ, particularly the pulled pork, stands as a testament to the area’s culinary traditions. However, the growing food truck scene, especially for tacos, showcases its evolving taste palate. Over in Washington DC, the food scene is a vibrant mix of international flavors and American staples. The Half-Smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl is a must-try local delicacy, while the city's impressive number of food trucks offers an eclectic range of street food, like the popular Kimchi Tacos. Washington DC's greater variety of vegan options and its overall more vibrant foodie scene make it an exciting destination for any food enthusiast looking to explore new flavors and dining experiences.
Cary vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering places that remind you of home. For food enthusiasts making the move from Cary, NC to Washington DC, this comparison of top restaurants in Cary to their equivalents in Washington DC aims to ease your transition by guiding you to your next favorite dining spots. Let this be your culinary compass in settling into your new environment.
| Cary | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Farm Bakery | Bread Furst | Artisanal bakery with a similar focus on European-style breads |
| Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Founding Farmers | Southern cuisine with a farm-to-table ethos matching Lucky 32's approach |
| Cinebistro | Alamo Drafthouse Cinema | Offering a premium movie and dining experience akin to Cinebistro |
| Bosphorus | Zaytinya | A focus on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, paralleling Bosphorus' offerings |
| Tazza Kitchen | Barcelona Wine Bar | Similar vibe and menu focusing on tapas and wood-fired dishes |
| Herons | Blue Duck Tavern | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a strong emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients |
| Pizzeria Faulisi | 2 Amys | Neapolitan pizza spot matching Faulisi’s commitment to authentic, wood-fired pies |
| Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar | Le Diplomate | A bustling brasserie atmosphere with a high-quality menu that echoes Maximillians' sophistication |
| Bond Brothers Beer Company | Right Proper Brewing Company | Both are beloved local breweries known for craft beers and a loyal community vibe |
| Doherty's Irish Pub | The Dubliner | Offering an authentic Irish pub experience, much like Doherty's in Cary |
While the culinary scene in Cary offers a charming mix of local and international flavors, the diverse gastronomic landscape of Washington DC provides an excellent continuation of your food journey. For instance, fans of La Farm Bakery's European-style breads will find solace in Bread Furst's equally commendable bread selection. Similarly, the transition from the cozy southern charm of Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen to the farm-to-table approach of Founding Farmers in DC illustrates how different cities can offer remarkably parallel dining experiences. On the other hand, a night out at Cinebistro in Cary could easily be swapped for an evening at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in DC, where the commitment to an exceptional dining and viewing experience continues. This comparison underscores that, despite the move, you will not have to compromise on the quality and diversity of culinary experiences in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Cary vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's crucial to understand how different cities compare in real estate, especially between Cary and Washington DC. This comparison aims to shed light on the key aspects of housing, from costs to lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Cary | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary | Federal and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, access to parks | Proximity to metro, historic details |
The chart illustrates some stark contrasts between Cary and Washington DC, particularly in terms of cost and lifestyle. Although Cary presents itself as a more affordable option for homeowners, with a lower median home price and monthly rent, Washington DC scores significantly higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle. This is reflective of DC's densely populated, highly urban environment, where amenities and work are often within walking or biking distance, a convenience that also contributes to its higher living costs. The architectural styles also differ notably, with Cary favoring contemporary designs and DC boasting historic federal and Victorian homes, often highlighted in real estate listings alongside their proximity to the metro system. These differences are paramount in deciding which city aligns better with your living preferences and lifestyle needs.
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.
Cary vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather in Cary and Washington DC will compare is crucial. This insight prepares you for seasonal wardrobe changes and outdoor activities adjustment, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
Cary, NC
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cary, NC
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Cary | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Cary to Washington DC, you'll find the summers to be slightly cooler and the winters a touch colder in DC, albeit by a narrow margin. Interestingly, both cities enjoy a substantial amount of sunshine annually, though Cary edges out with more sunny days. One significant difference lies in annual snowfall, where Washington DC experiences over twice as much snow as Cary does. Adjusting to this may require winter gear investments for those unused to heavier snowfalls. Air quality and allergy sufferers will note slight variations, with DC's denser urban environment contributing to moderate air quality levels, potentially exacerbating seasonal allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to Washington DC
When contemplating a relocation, particularly from Cary, NC to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to grasp how the financial and economic environments of your new home compare. This knowledge will help you plan better and set realistic expectations for your move.
| Comparison | Cary | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $123,857 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.85 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 8.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | High | Varies |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Cary, NC to Washington DC brings significant financial changes. While the average household income is higher in Cary, you'll find that living in Washington DC comes with a higher cost of living index, indicating that your expenses could rise significantly. The difference in state income and sales tax rates may also impact your monthly budgeting. It's important to note that despite the higher cost of living in DC, it offers unique career opportunities, especially in government and professional services. Evaluating the economic environment is essential in preparing for a successful transition.
Cary vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between Cary & Washington DC offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of these two dynamic cities to help you understand the community you're moving into.
| Cary | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Community-focused Initiatives | National and International Impact |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christian majority | Highly diverse religious landscape |
Moving from Cary to Washington DC, you'll transition from a city with a leaning Democratic political makeup to one that is strongly Democratic, reflecting the national political landscape. Cary focuses on community and local initiatives, whereas in Washington DC, politics often have national and international implications, owing to its status as the nation's capital. While both cities boast religious diversity, Washington DC's landscape is even more varied, reflecting its cosmopolitan nature. Understanding these differences will help you adapt and thrive in your new environment.
Cary vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making the move from Cary, NC, to Washington DC, DC, involves adjusting to new daily routines, especially when it comes to your commute. This brief comparison aims to boldly illustrate the differences in traffic and transportation options between Cary & Washington DC , helping you better understand what to expect in terms of daily travel in these cities.
| Comparison | Cary | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
In Cary, the average commute time is relatively low, but public transportation options are limited, signaling that a car is almost a necessity. In contrast, Washington DC boasts a higher score in terms of public transit availability, thanks to its extensive network, including the Metro, bus lines, and bike-share programs. This makes it much easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle, despite the higher traffic congestion. Embracing these options can not only save you time but also introduce you to a more eco-friendly way of commuting. Understanding these differences can significantly smooth your transition and daily experience in your new city.
Additional Resources
Cary Moving Services
Popular Cary to DC Routes
Popular Moving Resources
