Best Columbus to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Columbus to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,511 mile move from Ohio to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Columbus 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.

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Best Columbus to Tacoma Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Blue Men Moving LLC9.569.71Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
3First Due Movers9.259.06Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Manifest Shipping Llc9.189.35Authorized For HHGContact
5Moyer's Movers8.939.15Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Columbus to Tacoma

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,511 miles from Columbus, OH to Tacoma, WA will cost on average $3,917 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Tacoma move is roughly $9,464. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,626300 ft³8.75
1 Bedroom$3,917450 ft³8.70
2 Bedrooms$6,490750 ft³8.65
3 Bedrooms$9,4641100 ft³8.60
4 Bedrooms$13,6861600 ft³8.55
5+ Bedrooms$15,3061800 ft³8.50
*Please note: These Ohio to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Ohio & Washington. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed OH to WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Columbus guide.

Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Tacoma Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Blue Men Moving LLC Logo

Blue Men Moving LLC

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,226+ data points

10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW

Pickerington, OH, 43147

About Blue Men Moving LLC

With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3544037 / 1184394

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved78,500 (2022)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
First Due Movers Logo

First Due Movers

Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,542+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo

Manifest Shipping Llc

Exceptional9.18/10
based on 452+ data points

501 Southwick Pl

Trenton, OH, 45067

About Manifest Shipping Llc

Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3050908 / 49758

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved46,740 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Moyer's Movers Logo

Moyer's Movers

Superb8.93/10
based on 455+ data points

Newark, OH, 43055

About Moyer's Movers

Moyer’s Movers has been moving families and businesses across Ohio since 2004. This locally owned company can handle all types of...

Services

  • Residential and commercial moving
  • Long-distance moves across Ohio
  • Full pack and unpack services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2523566 / 885535

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved58,800 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Columbus vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new surroundings. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Columbus, OH & Tacoma, WA . This will help you find a new neighborhood in Tacoma that feels like home, using Columbus neighborhoods you already know and love as a baseline.

ColumbusTacomaHow They're Similar
German VillageOld TownHistoric charm, walkable streets
Short NorthStadium DistrictArtsy vibe, unique shops
Victorian VillageNorth SlopeHistoric homes, community feel
ClintonvilleProctor DistrictQuaint shops, neighborhood parks
BexleyOld TacomaAffluent area, waterfront access
Grandview HeightsHilltopStunning views, eclectic mix of restaurants
Upper ArlingtonWest EndFamily-friendly, great schools
DublinUniversity PlaceGreen spaces, golf courses
WorthingtonSixth AvenueCommunity events, diverse dining options
Italian VillageTacoma DomeIndustrial roots, modern development

Exploring neighborhoods like the Stadium District and Proctor District in Tacoma can evoke a sense of familiarity for those accustomed to Columbus's Short North and Clintonville, respectively. In the Stadium District, you'll find a community that boasts a vibrant arts scene and unique boutique shops, mirroring the Short North's flair for creativity and individualism. The Proctor District's charming streets are lined with quaint shops and cozy parks like Puget Park, similar to the friendly vibe and green spaces found in Clintonville. Whether you're strolling through the historic streets of Old Town or enjoying the waterfront views in Old Tacoma, you'll discover that each neighborhood in Tacoma has its own unique charm that resonates with the spirit of Columbus's beloved communities.

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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
  • Attend Tacoma Art Walk

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Tacoma

Moving from one city to another comes with its set of adjustments and surprises. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the Columbus, OH to Tacoma, WA relocation, outlining the benefits and drawbacks that come with such a significant change. By comparing the cons of Columbus with the pros of Tacoma and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect as you transition between these two dynamic cities.

CONs
PROs
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Less scenic views
  • Humid summers
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Lower seafood quality
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Stunning natural scenery
  • Milder climate
  • Abundant outdoor adventures
  • Fresh seafood available
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Smaller university presence
  • Higher living costs
  • Competitive job market
  • Fewer large-scale events
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Lively college town vibe
  • More affordable housing
  • Robust job market
  • Diverse festivals/events

When you move from Columbus, OH, to Tacoma, WA, you'll trade humid summers and flat landscapes for Tacoma's milder climate and stunning vistas, such as those from Point Defiance Park. While Columbus is known for its vibrant college atmosphere and diverse festivals, Tacoma offers an escape into nature with its easy access to both mountains and sea, including the famous Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Though the cost of living might be higher in Tacoma, the city's fresh seafood, such as that found at the Anthony's at Point Defiance, and numerous outdoor adventures make it a worthwhile trade. Keeping these contrasts in mind will help you navigate the transition smoothly, letting you embrace the new experiences awaiting in Tacoma.

Columbus vs. Tacoma Food Guide

As you prepare to move, understanding the local culture is essential, and nothing offers a taste of local culture quite like food. This is why we're providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus & Tacoma . Whether you're a foodie, a fan of street food, or have dietary preferences, this comparison will help you get acquainted with your new culinary scene.

ColumbusTacoma
Most iconic local food itemBuckeye candiesDungeness crab
Most popular meat dishColumbus-style pizzaPacific Northwest salmon
Most popular street food itemTaco trucksFish tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegetarian chiliTofu scramble
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
  • The Thurman Café
  • Harmon Brewing Co.
  • The Table
  • Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Columbus, the Buckeye candies, a peanut butter and chocolate delight, are not just sweets; they're a cultural symbol. As for dining, Columbus-style pizza and the taco trucks dotting the Short North Arts District showcase the city's eclectic taste. Meanwhile, Tacoma's Dungeness crab and Pacific Northwest salmon highlight the rich bounty of the sea that defines much of the local cuisine. Tofu scramble, found up and down 6th Avenue, is just a taste of Tacoma's vegan-friendly offerings. Both cities boast a vibrant food scene, but Tacoma, with its scenic backdrop, makes dining out an experience with restaurants like The Table, where Pacific Northwest cuisine meets rustic charm.

Columbus vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite dining spot is a crucial part of making somewhere feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your transition from Columbus, OH to Tacoma, WA by showcasing equivalent restaurants , thus ensuring your culinary needs continue to be met in your new locale.

ColumbusTacomaWhat You'll Love
The Refectory Restaurant & BistroOver The Moon CaféCozy, intimate bistro vibe
Northstar CaféQuickie TooA focus on wholesome, comforting meals
Lincoln Social RooftopThe RoofSimilar elevated, outdoor dining experience
Thurman CafeFrisko FreezeIconic, longstanding burger joint
Service BarEn RamaCreative cocktails and seasonal menus
Wolf's Ridge Brewing7 Seas BrewingBoth offer top-notch local brews and hearty menus
Jeni's Splendid Ice CreamsIce Cream SocialArtisanal flavors that locals love
Hot Chicken TakeoverCrisp GreensFor a twist, offering healthy, hearty salads with a flavor punch
The SycamoreThe TableNeighborhood gem with a farm-to-table approach
Los Guachos TaqueriaTacos GuevaraAuthentic, street-style tacos that hit the spot

For those who often find themselves missing the lively ambiance and exquisite dining at The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro in Columbus, Over The Moon Café in Tacoma will make you feel right at home with its similarly intimate bistro vibe and a menu that celebrates the best of Pacific Northwest ingredients. Wolf's Ridge Brewing enthusiasts will be pleased to find a kindred spirit in 7 Seas Brewing, where the brews are just as innovative and the food complements the beer perfectly. And for those ice cream aficionados, swapping Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams with Tacoma's Ice Cream Social means you don't have to sacrifice quality and creativity in your frozen treats post-move.

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Ready to start your move?

Columbus vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts


Real estate is a crucial factor in relocation, meriting a closer look at how Columbus, OH and Tacoma, WA compare in this domain. Understanding the differences can significantly influence your decision, ensuring you choose a location that best fits your lifestyle and budget.

ComparisonColumbusTacoma
Typical Architecture StyleCape Cod, CraftsmanCraftsman, Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, green spacesWaterfront views, proximity to parks


When considering a move from Columbus to Tacoma, it's worth diving deeper into what these numbers mean for you. The higher median home price and rent in Tacoma reflect its proximity to Seattle and the desirable Puget Sound region. However, this increase in cost comes with perks such as enhanced walkability, better bike paths, and urban amenities that cater to a dynamic lifestyle. Additionally, Tacoma's emphasis on waterfront properties and parks highlights the city's connection to natural beauty, offering a scenic backdrop to your daily activities. With these factors in mind, it's crucial to weigh both the financial and lifestyle changes that come with moving from Columbus, a city known for its open floor plans and green spaces, to the picturesque, yet pricier, Tacoma.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Columbus vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations

When relocating from Columbus, OH to Tacoma, WA, it's essential to grasp the weather differences between these cities. Understanding how the climate varies can help adjust your expectations and prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Columbus, OH

77°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Columbus, OH

47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.3

Columbus, OH

39.5

Tacoma, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Columbus, OH

4.3

Tacoma, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonColumbusTacoma
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersStorms, TornadoesEarthquakes, Volcanic Activity
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Columbus to Tacoma, you'll experience milder summers and warmer winters in Tacoma, with a noticeable decrease in summer highs and a less severe winter cold. Despite Tacoma having fewer sunny days than Columbus, both cities share similar average annual humidity and UV Index levels. One significant adjustment may involve the types of natural disasters to prepare for, as Tacoma is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity, unlike Columbus's storms and tornadoes. Tacoma's air quality may vary, and while both cities face challenges with seasonal allergies, the predominant allergens differ.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Tacoma

When considering a move from one city to another, gauging the financial differences is crucial. Understanding how expenses like taxes, cost of living, and average incomes compare can help you prepare. This comparison between Columbus, OH, and Tacoma, WA, will illuminate the economic landscape you're stepping into, guiding your financial decisions pre-move.

ComparisonColumbusTacoma
Avg. Household Income$58,202$77,141
Cost of Living Index92109.5
State Income Tax2.9-4.7970
Avg. Property Tax1.621.19
Avg. Sales Tax7.510.1
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, FinanceTechnology, Healthcare, International Trade
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLess visible
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

While Tacoma, WA, presents a higher average household income compared to Columbus, OH, it also sports a markedly higher cost of living index. Washington State's lack of income tax might seem appealing, but Tacoma's higher sales tax and cost of living could offset this advantage. Notably, the two cities boast diverse leading industries, from education and healthcare in Columbus to technology and international trade in Tacoma. Bearing these financial nuances in mind can help make the transition smoother, enabling you to adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.

Columbus vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison aims to provide a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of Columbus, OH, and Tacoma, WA , offering insights into the communities you're moving between. Understanding these aspects can help you anticipate the cultural atmosphere of your new city.

ColumbusTacoma
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate, with progressive tendenciesProgressive, with active local advocacy
ReligionDiverse, with Christian majorityDiverse, with a notable non-religious community

In moving from Columbus, OH, to Tacoma, WA, you'll transition into a more pronounced political landscape. Tacoma's population leans more decidedly Democratic, reflecting its vibrant, progressive community involved in local advocacy and politics. The city's inclusive atmosphere is supported by active engagement in social issues. The religious landscape in Tacoma is also noteworthy for its diversity, with a significant presence of non-religious individuals, adding to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Such a shift may offer you a different social environment, where progressive values and diversity are more pronounced.

Columbus vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Columbus, OH to Tacoma, WA means adapting to new surroundings, and a crucial part of this transition involves better understanding the daily commute and traffic conditions in both cities. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities in driving and transiting between Columbus and Tacoma, ensuring you're prepared for your new environment.

ComparisonColumbusTacoma
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2325
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingModerately Easy

When comparing the daily commutes of Columbus, OH and Tacoma, WA, a few key differences stand out. Firstly, the average commute time in Tacoma is slightly longer, likely due to higher traffic congestion scores. However, Tacoma offers a better public transit system rating, making it somewhat easier for residents to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. While getting by without a car in Columbus can be challenging due to its spread-out nature and less robust public transit options, Tacoma's more comprehensive transit services and slightly more condensed urban environment make car-free living more feasible. These differences highlight the importance of understanding your new city’s transit landscape, especially if you're planning to rely on public transportation.

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