Best Raleigh to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Raleigh to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 262 mile move from North Carolina to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 44 Raleigh 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 $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 262 miles from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,703 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Washington DC move is roughly $4,070. 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 | $1,148 | 300 ft³ | 3.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,703 | 450 ft³ | 3.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,807 | 750 ft³ | 3.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,070 | 1100 ft³ | 3.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,853 | 1600 ft³ | 3.66 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,508 | 1800 ft³ | 3.62 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh 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.
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when adapting to a new city's dynamic neighborhoods. To ease this transition, let's explore a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Washington DC, DC . This guide will help you find a new community in Washington DC that resonates with the familiar charm of your favorite Raleigh neighborhood.
| Raleigh | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville Street | U Street Corridor | Vibrant nightlife and dining |
| Cameron Village | Dupont Circle | Shopping and cafes |
| North Hills | Chevy Chase | Upscale shopping and suburban feel |
| Boylan Heights | Capitol Hill | Historic homes and walkability |
| Oakwood | Georgetown | Historic charm and cobblestone streets |
| Glenwood South | Adams Morgan | Lively nightlife and diverse cuisine |
| Five Points | Cleveland Park | Family-friendly and green spaces |
| Warehouse District | NoMa | Trendy eateries and modern apartments |
| Brier Creek | Navy Yard | Waterfront dining and entertainment |
| Mordecai | Woodley Park | Quiet, leafy streets and proximity to attractions |
In exploring these neighborhoods further, if you're drawn to the historic and peaceful streets of Oakwood, you'll be enamored with Georgetown's enchanting ambiance. Georgetown is renowned for its historic federal-style architecture, bustling M Street for shopping, and the scenic Waterfront Park offering stunning views of the Potomac River. On the other hand, if the vibrant and eclectic nightlife of Glenwood South captures your heart, Adams Morgan will undoubtedly appeal to you with its rainbow of cuisine options available at establishments like Tryst and its energetic nightlife scene. Meanwhile, Cameron Village shoppers will find Dupont Circle's array of boutiques and cafes, including the iconic Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café, an irresistible blend of commerce and culture in a quaint urban setting.
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 Raleigh to Washington DC
Making the leap from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, DC warrants a genuine appraisal of what this big move entails. Delve into an honest reflection that casts light on both sides of the coin, allowing you to weigh the cons of Raleigh, NC against the perks of moving to Washington DC, DC —and vice versa. Discover the intricate balance of lifestyle adjustments and opportunities between these two influential cities.
Raleigh, NC- Lower job opportunities
- Less cultural diversity
- Smaller art scene
- Fewer public transit options
Washington DC, DC- Higher job opportunities
- Greater cultural diversity
- Larger art scene
- Extensive public transit
Washington DC, DC- Higher cost of living
- Less affordable housing
- Busier lifestyle
- Fewer green spaces
Raleigh, NC- Lower cost of living
- More affordable housing
- Quieter lifestyle
- More green spaces
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, DC brings about a significant transition, touching on employment, culture, and daily life. In Raleigh, you might be accustomed to the slower pace of life and enjoying the expansive natural environs of places like Pullen Park or the Raleigh Rose Garden. However, Washington DC boasts an immense array of job opportunities, particularly for those in political, educational, and tech fields. The cultural landscape in DC is vibrant, encompassing historic sites like the Lincoln Memorial, an eclectic dining scene with restaurants such as Zaytinya, and cultural institutions like the Smithsonian Museums. While the cost of living might be higher and the bustling city life more pronounced, the trade-offs include access to a world-class public transportation system, including the DC Metro, and an inclusive, diverse cultural environment unmatched in most cities.
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Washington DC is crucial for those moving and wanting to immerse in the local culture. Food is a vibrant part of any area's lifestyle, and by comparing these two, you'll be better positioned to enjoy the culinary scene of your new home.
| Raleigh | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pulled pork BBQ | Half-smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Eastern NC barbecue | Chicken and waffles |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan barbecue | Veggie burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Raleigh to Washington DC, you'll transition from a food scene known for its down-home Southern BBQ to a diverse and international culinary landscape. In DC, neighborhoods like Shaw and Capitol Hill offer a vibrant street food scene with abundant food trucks serving everything from Korean BBQ to Ethiopian cuisine. Iconic restaurants such as Ben's Chili Bowl in U Street Corridor highlight the city's rich history and diverse palate, serving up unique dishes like the famous half-smoke. The foodie scene in DC is slightly more health-conscious and vegan-friendly, reflecting the city's eclectic and health-aware residents. Discovering the numerous food trucks and veggie burgers scattered across the city will be a delightful exploration for newcomers.
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the significance of cuisine in making a new city feel like home is crucial. This restaurant comparison between Raleigh and Washington DC is designed to help you in finding your next favorite dining spots by drawing on familiar favorites from your current city. Whether you're in search of high-end dining, casual eats, or something uniquely iconic, this guide aims to ease your transition.
| Raleigh | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Brewery Bhavana | Rasika | Known for inventive Indian cuisine, akin to Brewery Bhavana’s innovative approach. |
| Poole's Diner | The Dabney | Focuses on mid-Atlantic cuisine with a similar devotion to local ingredients and flavors. |
| Garland | Himalayan Heritage | Offers a unique blend of flavors with attention to the Asia-inspired dishes similar to Garland. |
| Bida Manda | Thip Khao | Laotian cuisine that provides a comparable exotic dining experience to Bida Manda’s Laotian offerings. |
| Beasley’s Chicken + Honey | Roaming Rooster | Well-loved for its fried chicken, reminiscent of Beasley’s southern comfort food. |
| Second Empire Restaurant | Plume | Elegant dining with a focus on inventive dishes and a similarly upscale atmosphere. |
| Angus Barn | The Prime Rib | Classic, high-end steakhouse experience paralleling the esteem of Angus Barn. |
| Clyde Cooper's BBQ | Hill Country Barbecue Market | Captures the essence of traditional barbecue, offering a taste of home for Clyde Cooper's fans. |
| La Farm Bakery | Bread Furst | Known for its artisan bread and pastries, mirroring La Farm Bakery's quality and ambience. |
| Morgan Street Food Hall | Union Market | A food hall that provides a variety of culinary experiences, akin to the diverse offerings at Morgan Street. |
For those who treasure a unique dining experience, Raleigh's Brewery Bhavana and Washington DC's Rasika both offer innovative and immersive culinary journeys - the former with a blend of brewery, library, and flower shop all in one, and Rasika with its modern twist on traditional Indian dishes. Similarly, lovers of comfort food will appreciate the parallel between Beasley’s Chicken + Honey and Roaming Rooster, where the succulent, crispy fried chicken serves as a comforting reminder of home. For the barbecue aficionados, the transition from Clyde Cooper's BBQ to Hill Country Barbecue Market will be seamless, offering them the smoky, tangy flavors they adore. Each of these Washington DC restaurants encapsulates the essence of their Raleigh counterparts, allowing for an easier adjustment to a new city without sacrificing the flavors you've come to love.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering relocating, comparing the real estate landscapes of Raleigh, NC, and Washington DC, DC, is crucial. Understanding differences in housing costs, style, and livability can significantly impact your moving decision. Let’s dive into how these two cities compare in critical housing aspects.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Federal, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, community amenities | Proximity to metro, historic charm |
When dissecting the real estate nuances between Raleigh and Washington DC, notable contrasts emerge, particularly regarding living costs and urban lifestyle. Homes in Raleigh are more affordably priced, and properties often boast spacious yards and access to community amenities, ideal for those valuing space and a slightly slower pace of living. On the other hand, Washington DC's real estate market highlights its rich historic charm and superior walkability, with a significant emphasis on proximity to metro stations—an advantage for those craving a vibrant urban lifestyle without the need for personal vehicles. These distinctions underpin the importance of aligning your housing preferences with the city's character that best fits your 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.
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, it is crucial to compare the weather conditions you're accustomed to. Understanding how the weather varies between Raleigh and Washington DC is essential for a smooth transition to your new environment.
Raleigh, NC
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In addition to similar summer temperatures, both cities experience moderate air quality, though Washington DC tends to have slightly more winter chill and snowfall, making winter gear a good investment. On the flip side, Raleigh enjoys more sunny days a year, which could affect your outdoor activities and mood. It's also worth noting the slight difference in average annual humidity and the subsequent impact on comfort levels. Both cities face specific natural disasters, with Raleigh being more prone to hurricanes and tornadoes, and Washington DC facing hurricanes and winter storms, hence, preparing for these events differs.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Washington DC
When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you'll be stepping into. Understanding the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between Raleigh and Washington DC can help you prepare for the transition. This comparison aims to outline these critical financial aspects.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 8.5 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Government, Professional Services, Education |
| Affluence | moderate | high |
| Poverty | moderate | low |
| Homelessness | low | moderate |
Moving from Raleigh to Washington DC, you'll likely notice a marked difference in the cost of living and average household income. Washington DC's higher cost of living index reflects its status as a hub of government and international diplomacy, contributing to its higher average household income. However, this is balanced by higher state income taxes and a vibrant job market, predominantly in government and professional services. Considering these factors is essential for a smooth financial transition, making it vital to weigh the benefits of higher income against the costs in Washington DC.
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Washington DC, offering a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities.
| Raleigh | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with a focus on growth and development | Liberal with a strong emphasis on federal policy and social issues |
| Religion | Varied, with a significant presence of Christians and growing diversity | Diverse religious landscape with a significant number of non-religious residents |
When considering the move from Raleigh to Washington DC, you'll find a noticeable shift in the political environment. Raleigh, while leaning Democratic, has a more moderate stance on local politics, focusing on growth and development. Washington DC, on the other hand, operates under a strongly Democratic lens, often influenced by its proximity to federal politics, with a significant emphasis on social issues. The religious landscapes in both cities are diverse, yet in Washington DC, you might notice a higher proportion of non-religious residents. This diversity contributes to the rich cultural fabric of both cities, shaping community life and local policies.
Raleigh vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Washington, DC? It’s crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences might change. This comparison between Raleigh & Washington DC will help you better understand what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in these cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes |
While Raleigh boasts somewhat lighter traffic and shorter average commute times than Washington DC, its public transit system is less robust, making it challenging to get by without a car. In contrast, Washington DC offers extensive public transit options, including the Metro, buses, and bike-share programs, making it feasible and even convenient to live car-free. The higher traffic congestion in DC reflects its denser urban environment, but the effective public transit system significantly offsets this disadvantage. Understanding these key differences can help you smoothly transition to your new city.
Additional Resources
Raleigh Moving Services
Popular Raleigh to DC Routes
Popular Moving Resources
