Best Philadelphia to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 148 mile move from Pennsylvania to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 55 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Pineapple Movers | 9.44 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | banning moving | 9.20 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Philadelphia to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 148 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,621 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Washington DC move is roughly $3,869. 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 | $1,093 | 300 ft³ | 3.64 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,621 | 450 ft³ | 3.60 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,670 | 750 ft³ | 3.56 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,869 | 1100 ft³ | 3.52 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,560 | 1600 ft³ | 3.47 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,178 | 1800 ft³ | 3.43 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Philadelphia guide.
Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia 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) |
EverSafe Moving Co.
8701 Torresdale Ave
Philadelphia, PA, 19136
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261303 / 771755 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2021) |
Pineapple Movers
Collingswood, NJ, 08108
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579435 / 1208543 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2022) |
banning moving
2224 Apple Way
Bensalem, PA, 19020
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3350149 / 1070919 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,675 (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.
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be a complex journey, especially when it involves getting acquainted with a new city. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Washington DC, DC . This guide aims to help you find a slice of familiarity in your new environment by aligning neighborhoods from your current city with those in your future home.
| Philadelphia | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | Dupont Circle | Vibrant social scene |
| Fishtown | Shaw | Trendy, youthful vibe |
| University City | Foggy Bottom | Academic atmosphere |
| Manayunk | Georgetown | Historic charm, water views |
| Northern Liberties | Adams Morgan | Eclectic mix of dining and nightlife |
| Old City | Penn Quarter | Rich in history |
| Center City | Downtown DC | Heart of the city |
| East Passyunk | Capitol Hill | Residential with vibrant main streets |
| West Philadelphia | Columbia Heights | Diverse, dynamic community |
| Chestnut Hill | Cleveland Park | Upscale, green neighborhood |
Exploring the neighborhoods listed, you'll uncover a myriad of attractions that mirror the cultural and social richness of your old stomping grounds. For instance, Dupont Circle, akin to Rittenhouse Square, boasts a lively atmosphere with a plethora of cafes, boutiques, and galleries that exude a distinct charm and sophistication. Coffee lovers and brunch enthusiasts moving from Fishtown will find solace in Shaw's convivial streets, home to inventive eateries and mural-adorned alleyways. Meanwhile, history buffs accustomed to the storied environs of Old City will appreciate Penn Quarter’s monumental landmarks, including the vibrant Chinatown arch and the esteemed Smithsonian museums. These comparable neighborhoods offer a seamless transition, allowing you to enjoy familiar comforts while embracing the unique offerings of your new city.
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 Philadelphia to Washington DC
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the good against the bad. This comparison aims to reflect on moving from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, DC, considering what you'll gain against what you'll miss. This honest reflection is designed to help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher taxes
- Worse traffic
- Lower walkability
- Less political influence
- Smaller cultural scene
Washington DC, DC- Strong job market
- Better public transit
- More walkable
- Greater political hub
- Larger cultural offerings
Washington DC, DC- Higher cost of living
- Less unique local cuisine
- Pricey housing
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Less sports-centric
Philadelphia, PA- Rich history
- Unique cuisine
- More affordable
- Laid-back atmosphere
- Better sports culture
While Philadelphia boasts a rich historical backdrop, including landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Philadelphia Museum of Art, Washington DC counters with its unmatched political and cultural pulse, home to the Smithsonian Museums and the White House. DC's vibrant job market, especially in government and tech, contrasts with Philadelphia's more laid-back, affordable lifestyle. However, the transition to DC's fast-paced environment is smoothed by its greater walkability and superior public transport, exemplified by the Metro. Nonetheless, the heart and soul of Philadelphia's unique cuisine and passionate sports culture are elements you might miss amidst Washington's political hustle and diverse culinary scene. This comparison isn't just about the practicalities of living in one city versus another; it's about what kind of lifestyle and opportunities you want to embrace.
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital as food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Washington DC to help you get a sense of the culinary scene in your future home.
| Philadelphia | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Philly Cheesesteak | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Soft Pretzel | Korean BBQ Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Cheesesteak | Chickpea Curry |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Philadelphia, grabbing a Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try experience for anyone moving to or visiting the city. You can find some of the best renditions of this iconic sandwich at spots like Pat's King of Steaks or Geno's Steaks. On the other hand, Washington DC boasts a vibrant street food scene with its abundance of food trucks offering everything from Korean BBQ Tacos to Ethiopian cuisine. The city is also home to Ben's Chili Bowl, a must-visit for anyone craving the quintessential half-smoke. Both cities offer a rich foodie scene welcoming to all dietary preferences, but if you're a fan of exploring diverse and upscale dining, Washington DC's food scene, with restaurants like Zaytinya and Le Diplomate, might be particularly appealing.
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot is key to making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Philadelphia, PA and Washington DC, DC is designed to ease your transition by matching top dining experiences in your old haunt with similar spots in your new city.
| Philadelphia | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Rasika | Both known for innovative takes on traditional dishes, making them standout in their locales. |
| Vetri Cucina | FIORELLA’S | Renowned for exquisite Italian cuisine, both establishments offer a memorable dining experience. |
| Federal Donuts | Call Your Mother | A beloved spot for bagels and coffee with a unique twist, akin to Federal's diverse offerings. |
| Reading Terminal Market | Union Market | Both are iconic marketplaces offering a variety of local eats and artisan goods. |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Ben's Chili Bowl | Iconic to their respective cities for casual yet iconic eats. |
| El Vez | Oyamel Cocina Mexicana | Celebrated for their inventive Mexican cuisine in lively settings. |
| Suraya | MAYDAN | While different in cuisine style, both are heralded for their vibrant atmosphere and exceptional flavors. |
| Di Bruno Bros. | Eastern Market | Essential stops for food lovers in search of gourmet items and fresh produce. |
| Franklin Fountain | Ice Cream Jubilee | Both offer unique, handcrafted ice cream flavors that have won local hearts. |
| La Colombe Coffee Roasters | Compass Coffee | Famous for their commitment to quality coffee and community vibes. |
Among these excellent dining comparisons, Zahav in Philadelphia and Rasika in Washington DC truly stand out for their innovative culinary approaches. Zahav's modern Israeli dishes provide a unique taste experience similar to the inventive Indian cuisine found at Rasika. Meanwhile, those who can't start their day without a quality cup of coffee will find a new morning sanctuary at Compass Coffee, reminiscent of the community and quality offered by La Colombe Coffee Roasters. For an iconic local experience, Ben's Chili Bowl in Washington DC offers a vibe not dissimilar to Philadelphia's Pat's King of Steaks, with both serving up dishes that have become synonymous with their respective cities' food culture.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate deeply influences the moving process, making it crucial to understand the distinctions between the living spaces in Philadelphia, PA, and Washington DC, DC. This comparison sheds light on variables such as cost and urban lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Rowhouse | Federal and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, proximity to public transit | Eco-friendly features, security |
When you compare the housing markets of Philadelphia and Washington DC, the differences in median home prices and monthly rents are staggering. The cost of living in DC is significantly higher, which is reflected in its real estate prices. Philadelphia offers a charm with its ubiquitous rowhouses and boasts higher walkability, making it a haven for those who enjoy urban exploration by foot. Washington DC, on the other hand, scores slightly higher in bikeability and has an architectural style that reflects its historical significance, with many listings highlighting eco-friendly features and security. Understanding these nuances is crucial in ensuring your move aligns with your lifestyle and budget preferences.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, DC, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences you'll experience, allowing you to prepare accordingly for your new home.
Philadelphia, PA
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Occasional Flooding, Winter Storms | Occasional Flooding, Hurricanes, Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparison to Philadelphia, Washington DC boasts slightly warmer average temperatures in summer, along with gentler winters, presenting a warmer climate overall. Despite both cities receiving roughly the same amount of sunshine, DC's winters are notably milder, a detail to consider when preparing your wardrobe. Additionally, while both cities encounter their share of seasonal allergies, the presence of mold in Washington DC could be a new factor for those sensitive to allergens. Understanding these differences can help you better adapt to your new environment in Washington DC.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Washington DC
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. It’s vital to grasp how living costs, alongside taxes and income opportunities, will shift. This guide provides a comparison to help you understand the financial landscape when moving from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, DC.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 8.95 (top rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.98 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
While the average household income in Washington DC is considerably higher than in Philadelphia, it's important to note that the cost of living also follows this upward trend. For instance, the Cost of Living Index in Washington DC far exceeds that of Philadelphia, indicating the necessity for a higher income to maintain a similar standard of living. Additionally, despite higher individual income tax rates in DC, the lower sales and property taxes may offset some of the financial burdens. The profile of leading industries between the two cities reveals distinct economic landscapes, suggesting potential career transition implications for movers. Indeed, understanding these disparities is crucial for financial planning and adaptation to your new city.
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Philadelphia & Washington DC, aiming to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you’ll find in each city. This overview can help you understand the community you’re moving into or away from.
| Philadelphia | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Majority Democratic | Overwhelmingly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Highly politically engaged, progressive |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant | A diverse mix with a significant non-religious population |
When considering your move from Philadelphia to Washington DC, it’s noteworthy that both cities share a predominantly Democratic political landscape, but Washington DC is known for its extremely high political engagement, possibly due to its status as the nation's capital. While Philadelphia has a strong sense of local politics with progressive leanings, especially on social issues, the political atmosphere in Washington DC can be seen as even more progressive, with a significant portion of the population involved in or impacted by political and governmental careers. On the religious front, both cities boast a diverse religious makeup, but Washington DC stands out for its larger non-religious community. Understanding these nuances can give you a deeper insight into the social fabric of your new home.
Philadelphia vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial for anyone moving from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, DC. This section will compare traffic and transportation options between Philadelphia & Washington DC, aiming to provide insights on what to expect when transitioning between these vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some difficulty | Yes, easily |
In both Philadelphia and Washington DC, you’re likely to experience a bustling urban environment with its own unique set of commuting challenges and advantages. Philadelphia offers a diverse selection of neighborhoods that can impact your need for a car, whereas in Washington DC, the reliance on public transportation is much greater, thanks in part to the extensive Metro system. Traffic congestion is a slightly bigger nuisance in DC, reflecting the city's dense political and social hub. However, the higher availability and efficiency of public transit in DC make it easier for residents to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Whether in Philly or DC, understanding the local traffic patterns and public transportation options will greatly enhance your ability to move around the city efficiently.
Additional Resources
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