Best Norfolk to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Norfolk to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 202 mile move from Virginia to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 | Marathon Moving Services | 9.27 | 9.25 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Prime Movers USA | 9.07 | 9.39 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | A Friendly & Affordable Mover | 8.22 | 8.74 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Norfolk to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 202 miles from Norfolk, VA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,660 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Norfolk to Washington DC move is roughly $3,964. 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 | $1,119 | 300 ft³ | 3.73 |
1 Bedroom | $1,660 | 450 ft³ | 3.69 |
2 Bedrooms | $2,735 | 750 ft³ | 3.65 |
3 Bedrooms | $3,964 | 1100 ft³ | 3.60 |
4 Bedrooms | $5,698 | 1600 ft³ | 3.56 |
5+ Bedrooms | $6,334 | 1800 ft³ | 3.52 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Norfolk guide.
Compare the 5 Best Norfolk 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) |

Marathon Moving Services

MMS
Virginia Beach, VA, 23464
About Marathon Moving Services
Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing & Delivery
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3572153 / 1552140 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Prime Movers USA
531 Fountain Lake Dr
Virginia Beach, VA, 23451
About Prime Movers USA
Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...
Services
- Local moves (within 50 miles)
- Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
- Packing/unpacking services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2995403 / 21183 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 9,060 (2023) |

A Friendly & Affordable Mover

516 Central Dr Suite 104
Virginia Beach, VA, 23454
About A Friendly & Affordable Mover
A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one...
Services
- Local and long-distance professional moving services
- Free in-home estimates
- Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3239170 / 1036449 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (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.
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move can be daunting, especially when transitioning to an unfamiliar city. To ease this journey, we've crafted a guide to help you find your bearings by comparing the local neighborhoods between Norfolk, VA & Washington DC, DC . Discover the essence of your favorite Norfolk neighborhood in its Washington DC counterpart.
Norfolk | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Ghent | Dupont Circle | Vibrant arts, dining, and LGBT-friendly atmosphere |
Freemason District | Georgetown | Historic architecture, waterfront views, and upscale shopping |
Larchmont | Chevy Chase | Family-friendly, quiet residential area with green spaces |
Ocean View | Capitol Hill | Historic homes with a sense of community near the water |
Norfolk Downtown | Downtown DC | Urban center with skyscrapers and bustling business district |
West Ghent | Bloomingdale | Residential, with a mix of historical and modern homes |
Lakewood | Petworth | Diverse, with a growing number of dining and retail options |
Colonial Place | Brookland | Artsy, with a diverse and welcoming community vibe |
Riverpoint | Anacostia | Waterfront green spaces and burgeoning local arts scene |
East Beach | Southwest Waterfront | Newly developed, with marinas and water activities |
If you've enjoyed the historic and artsy vibe of Ghent, Dupont Circle in Washington DC will captivate you with its vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and welcoming community. Admirers of the Freemason District's waterfront and historic charm will find Georgetown an ideal counterpart, offering a seamless blend of history, culture, and upscale shopping. For those seeking a family-friendly neighborhood akin to Larchmont, Chevy Chase presents a tranquil, green suburbia perfect for family living. Not to forget, the bustling urban life of Norfolk Downtown finds its match in Downtown DC, where the essence of city living is complemented by an array of businesses, museums, and restaurants. These parallels between Norfolk and Washington DC neighborhoods ensure that you'll find a new home that feels familiar yet opens the door to new experiences.

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 Norfolk to Washington DC
Moving from Norfolk, VA to Washington DC, DC demands a careful comparison to highlight the challenges and benefits of such a decision. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of both the positive and negative aspects of this relocation, ensuring you make an informed choice tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.
- Lower job opportunities
- Slower pace of life
- Less cultural attractions
- Smaller professional network
- Higher job opportunities
- Faster pace of life
- More cultural attractions
- Larger professional network
- Higher cost of living
- No beach access
- More competitive atmosphere
- More traffic congestion
- Lower cost of living
- Beach access
- More laid-back atmosphere
- Less traffic congestion
Moving to Washington DC from Norfolk VA presents a significant shift in lifestyle and opportunities. In DC, you'll find yourself amidst a bustling environment, ripe with cultural attractions like the National Mall and Smithsonian Museums, and a faster pace of life that's invigorating for many. The professional landscape in DC is vast, offering broader networking opportunities and potentially higher job prospects in sectors like politics, education, and healthcare. Conversely, the higher cost of living and increased traffic congestion are notable challenges; areas such as Georgetown or Capitol Hill, while brimming with history and charm, also come with a higher price tag. Nevertheless, for those craving increased professional opportunities and cultural richness, the move could prove rewarding.
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Food Guide
As you consider relocating, it's essential to recognize how food is a vital element of local culture reflecting the lifestyle in a new area. Through this insight, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk, VA & Washington DC, DC, aiming to enrich your understanding of the culinary scene you're moving into.
Norfolk | Washington DC | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab | Half-Smoke |
Most popular meat dish | Fried Catfish | Mumbo Sauce with Chicken Wings |
Most popular street food item | Oyster Po'Boy | Korean BBQ Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich | Quinoa Salad with Seasonal Veggies |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Norfolk, VA, to Washington DC, you'll note a shift in culinary trends towards more globally inspired dishes in the latter, such as the Korean BBQ Tacos popular on DC streets. Neighborhoods like Adams Morgan in Washington DC boast a diverse array of dining establishments, including renowned places like Zaytinya for Mediterranean delights and Ben's Chili Bowl for a taste of local tradition with their famous Half-Smoke. Exploring the vegan scene in DC, you'll find a broader variety of options, reflecting the city's higher health consciousness and foodie culture compared to Norfolk.
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Norfolk to Washington DC is designed to ease your transition by pinpointing new favorite eateries that reflect your current culinary haunts. Let this guide serve as a bridge to your next dining adventure.
Norfolk | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
A.W. Shuck's | Hank's Oyster Bar | Both offer a cozy atmosphere with a focus on seafood delights. |
No Frill Bar and Grill | Busboys and Poets | Casual yet vibrant spots focusing on hearty American fare and community engagement. |
Chartreuse Bistro | Le Diplomate | European flair with farm-to-table ethos, serving meticulously prepared dishes. |
The Grilled Cheese Bistro | GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar | Specializing in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, offering comfort food at its best. |
Cogan's Pizza | Omar's Carriage House | Omar's Carriage House |
The Dabney - Similarly passionate about local sourcing, these restaurants provide a warm, historic setting. | Luce | Luce |
Masseria - Italian cuisine with a modern twist, focusing on the finesse of ingredients and presentation. | Field Guide | Field Guide |
Saltine | Whaley's | Upscale spots for seafood lovers, highlighting fresh catches with an innovative touch. |
Toast | Unconventional Diner | Both are redefining diner cuisine with an emphasis on creativity and quality. |
For a taste of Norfolk in Washington DC, embark on a culinary journey that bridges familiar flavors with new experiences. At Hank's Oyster Bar, you'll be reminded of the welcoming vibe and seafood expertise of A.W. Shuck's. Meanwhile, the transition from Chartreuse Bistro to Le Diplomate will captivate you with European charm and a comparable commitment to quality ingredients. Those seeking a comforting, gourmet twist on a classic American staple will find GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar echoes the homey, inventive spirit of The Grilled Cheese Bistro. Let these establishments be your guide to discovering the rich tapestry of dining experiences that Washington DC has to offer, making your new city feel like home.

Ready to start your move?
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Norfolk and Washington DC compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle can greatly influence your decision-making process.
Comparison | Norfolk | Washington DC |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Row houses, Federal |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront views, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to metro, vibrant neighborhoods |
When moving from Norfolk to Washington DC, you'll find a significant difference in housing costs, with DC presenting a higher median home price and monthly rent. However, this comes with the advantage of a more vibrant urban lifestyle, emphasized by a better score in walkability and bikeability, making DC an ideal location for those seeking an active, city-centric life. The architecture in DC, particularly the iconic row houses and federal style buildings, adds to its unique charm. In contrast, Norfolk offers more traditional Colonial and Cape Cod styles, often featuring waterfront views which are highly valued in real estate listings. Choosing between the two cities largely depends on your preference for lifestyle, budget, and the type of community you're looking to join.

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.
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Norfolk, VA to Washington DC, it's crucial to comprehend how the weather dynamics in your current city will differ from those in your future home. This comparison will help you adjust your lifestyle and wardrobe accordingly.
Norfolk, VA
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Norfolk, VA
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Norfolk, VA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Norfolk, VA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Norfolk | Washington DC |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Snowstorms, Flooding |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Norfolk and Washington DC experience hot summers and mild winters, relocating implies adapting to slightly colder winters and more snow in DC. The number of sunny days is somewhat less in DC, which might affect your outdoor activities slightly. Also, when moving from Norfolk, prepare for potential differences in air quality and a different set of challenges regarding natural disasters. Understanding these changes can help you better prepare for year-round living conditions in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Norfolk to Washington DC
When relocating, it's crucial to grasp the financial shifts you might encounter. This comparison illuminates the money and finance dynamics between Norfolk, VA, and Washington DC, DC , providing insights into what you're accustomed to versus what to expect.
Comparison | Norfolk | Washington DC |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $58,591 | $90,088 |
Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 140.1 |
State Income Tax | 5.75 | 8.95 |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.0 | 0.56 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Top 3 Industries | Military, Port Operations, Healthcare | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Notable | Moderate |
Homelessness | Concerning | Significant |
Moving from Norfolk to Washington DC, you'll find significant differences in financial landscapes. With an average household income substantially higher in DC, it's also coupled with a higher cost of living—indicative of the city's affluence but underscored by its costs. Taxes, including state income and property taxes, vary, reflecting each area's economic policies and housing market. Notably, both locales share an average sales tax rate, yet they diverge greatly in their primary industries. This shift in economic drivers, along with contrasting descriptions of affluence, poverty, and homelessness rates, underlines the importance of understanding these financial nuances before your move.
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick glance at the political and religious composition between Norfolk, VA, and Washington DC, DC . It aims to offer insights into the communities, helping you understand the local climate of your new home.
Norfolk | Washington DC | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Moderate | Progressive |
Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population | Highly diverse, with a noticeable secular population |
In moving from Norfolk to Washington DC, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a moderate lean in local politics to one that is notably progressive, reflecting in many of its local policies and initiatives. Political engagement in Washington DC is high, and the political landscape there is largely influenced by national and international affairs. Religious diversity is a hallmark of both cities, but you might notice that Washington DC has a more pronounced secular population alongside its religious communities. This comparative overview allows you to anticipate and appreciate the socio-political and religious fabrics of your new environment.
Norfolk vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Norfolk, VA to Washington DC, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Norfolk & Washington DC will aid in your transition.
Comparison | Norfolk | Washington DC |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Norfolk, your daily commute might be shorter on average, but the city scores lower in terms of traffic congestion and public transit availability compared to Washington DC. While you might struggle to rely solely on public transit in Norfolk, Washington DC's robust system, including Metro and bus services, makes it feasible for many to forego a car entirely. The greater traffic congestion in DC reflects its larger population and denser urban environment, but the comprehensive public transit system effectively mitigates this challenge for daily commuters. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the lifestyle change that comes with your move.



Additional Resources
Norfolk Moving Services
Popular Norfolk to DC Routes
Popular Moving Resources