Best Virginia to DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Virginia to DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 183 mile VA to DC move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 149 Virginia to 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 ARS 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 Virginia compared to 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 Virginia to DC Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ARS Movers | 9.63 | 9.76 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | A Change of Place Movers | 9.58 | 9.44 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Matthew's Nationwide Moving | 9.48 | 9.63 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | TrueMover, LLC. | 9.46 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Virginia to DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 183 miles from Virginia to DC will cost on average $1,646 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom VA to DC move is roughly $3,931. 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 in Virginia and dropoff in DC 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 Virginia to DC movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,110 | 300 ft³ | 3.70 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,646 | 450 ft³ | 3.66 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,712 | 750 ft³ | 3.62 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,931 | 1100 ft³ | 3.57 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,650 | 1600 ft³ | 3.53 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,279 | 1800 ft³ | 3.49 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from DC to Virginia guide.
Popular Virginia to DC Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Virginia to DC
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Virginia to DC Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best VA to DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
ARS Movers
Herndon, VA, 20170
About ARS Movers
ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a...
Services
- Local Moving (Residential Moving)
- Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
- Office Moving (Commercial Moving)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3260258 / 1027666 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 3 (2022) |
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) |
A Change of Place Movers
Hopewell, VA, 23860
About A Change of Place Movers
The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1293943 / 503371 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 290,815 (2023) |
Matthew's Nationwide Moving
5004 Philip Rd
Annandale, VA, 22003
About Matthew's Nationwide Moving
Matthew's Nationwide Moving is a family-owned and operated company founded in 2012 in Annandale, Virginia. With over 20 seasoned moving contractors...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Nationwide Moving Services
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2375124 / 819110 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 400,000 (2023) |
TrueMover, LLC.
21531 Blackwood Ct Suite # 100
Sterling, VA, 20166
About TrueMover, LLC.
TrueMover, LLC, founded in 2016 by Robert Murphy and Chris Gibson, is a moving company based in Sterling, VA. They are...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2862283 / 959205 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Virginia to DC
Moving from one place to another comes with its set of challenges and rewards. In this guide, we aim to give you an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Virginia to DC. Our comparison charts will help you weigh the cons of living in Virginia against the pros of moving to DC, and vice versa, providing a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
Virginia- Higher vehicle taxes
- Lesser job opportunities
- Suburban sprawl
- Lower diversity
- Quieter nightlife
DC- Better public transit
- Greater career prospects
- Urban environment
- Higher cultural diversity
- Livelier nightlife
DC- Less greenery
- Higher living costs
- Heavier traffic
- Higher crime rates
- More impersonal
Virginia- More green spaces
- Affordable housing
- Better traffic conditions
- Lower crime rate
- Community feel
While the charts above succinctly outline the practical aspects of moving from Virginia to DC, it's the subtleties of daily life that truly define an experience. Washington DC's vibrant city life means being minutes away from some of the nation's most significant landmarks and museums, such as the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum or having a picnic at the National Mall. The city's dining scene is equally impressive, offering a variety of international cuisines courtesy of establishments like Zaytinya for Mediterranean fare or the celebrated Rosa's Thai Cafe. On the other hand, Virginia's suburbs, such as Arlington and Alexandria, offer quieter, family-friendly neighborhoods with access to excellent parks like Potomac Overlook Regional Park, providing a balance between urban and natural environments. Such contrasts highlight the importance of considering lifestyle preferences when planning your move.
Virginia vs. DC Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia & DC is crucial because food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and living experience. Through this comparison, we aim to enrich your understanding of the culinary scene in your new home.
| Virginia | DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Virginia Ham | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ | Mumbo Sauce Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Peanuts | Food Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Grain Bowl | Vegan Soul Food |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Virginia, the historical significance of Virginia Ham ties closely to its culinary roots, synonymous with Southern cooking and hospitality. Barbecue, particularly with a focus on pork, serves as a staple comfort food, widely available from upscale dining to roadside stands. On the other hand, DC's diverse culinary scene shines with its iconic Half-Smoke, best enjoyed at local favorite Ben's Chili Bowl. The urban environment of DC fosters a robust food truck culture, offering a variety of street food that caters to every palate, including an increasing demand for vegan options. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Alexandria, Virginia, or the bustling avenues of Washington, DC, the richness of each location's food scene offers something unique, mirroring the diverse cultural tapestry of the area.
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Virginia vs. DC Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, understanding the housing market differences between Virginia and DC is crucial. This comparison provides insights on cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Virginia | DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Victorian, Row Houses |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to metro, Vibrant nightlife |
While Virginia offers more affordable housing options with its median home price and rent well below DC's, the lifestyle between the two vastly differs. In DC, the higher cost of living is offset by the convenience of a highly walkable environment, rich in history and culture, such as the Smithsonian Museums and the U.S. Capitol. DC's bikeability and walkability scores are significantly higher, reflecting its urban planning that encourages less reliance on cars. On the other hand, Virginia's typical Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes with spacious yards cater to those seeking a quieter, more suburban lifestyle. This comparison highlights the trade-offs between cost, lifestyle, and urban convenience when considering a move from Virginia to DC.
Virginia vs. DC Weather Considerations
Moving from Virginia to DC means adapting to a new environment. It's important to understand how the weather varies between these areas to anticipate changes. This comparison aims to shed light on the weather differences between Virginia and DC, helping you adapt seamlessly to your new home.
Virginia
DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Virginia
DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Virginia
DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Virginia
DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Virginia | DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Storms, Floods | Storms, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Virginia and DC share similar weather patterns, slight differences exist in their climates. DC experiences a bit higher temperatures during summer nights and less snowfall annually, which might influence your wardrobe and activities. Moreover, the slight difference in annual humidity levels and air quality between Virginia and DC can impact comfort and health, particularly for individuals sensitive to air pollutants and humidity. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your relocation.
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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Virginia to DC
When contemplating a move from Virginia to DC, it's critical to grasp the financial landscape you're entering. Understanding the cost of living, taxation, and economic conditions between Virginia and DC ensures you're well-prepared for this significant change. This comparison sheds light on what to anticipate financially in your new home.
| Comparison | Virginia | DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $85,873 | $101,027 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 2% - 5.75% | 4% - 8.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80% | 0.56% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.3% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Government, Healthcare | Government, Education, Professional Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
The table above indicates that while moving from Virginia to DC might increase your average household income, it comes with a steeper cost of living. The cost of living in DC is notably higher than in Virginia, reflecting in almost every category from housing to daily expenses. Taxes in DC are also generally higher, which is crucial to consider for budgeting purposes. Despite these financial shifts, DC's vibrant economic environment, spearheaded by government, education, and professional services, offers unique career and growth opportunities not as prevalent in Virginia. Understanding these financial and economic contrasts can significantly aid in making an informed decision when contemplating this move.
Virginia vs. DC Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick comparison of the politics between Virginia & DC , giving you a glimpse into the political and religious fiber that weaves the social fabric of the places you're moving from and to. Understanding these variances can help in navigating your new environment more seamlessly.
| Virginia | DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately conservative, with pockets of liberal influence, especially in Northern Virginia and urban areas. | Strongly liberal, with a significant majority of voters supporting Democratic candidates. |
| Local Politics | Diverse, with a mix of Republican and Democratic leadership depending on the region. | Heavily Democratic, with local politics focusing on urban issues, governance, and federal-government relations. |
| Religion | Mix of Protestant, Catholic, and other faiths, reflective of its diverse population. | Varied, with a significant number of non-religious residents alongside Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish communities. |
When moving from Virginia to DC, you'll notice a shift from a more moderate political environment to a distinctly liberal one, especially in terms of local governance and public policy priorities. Your new neighborhood in DC will likely demonstrate a strong engagement in federal and local politics, a contrast to Virginia's varied political landscapes. Religiously, both Virginia and DC host diverse communities, yet DC stands out for its higher proportion of non-religious residents. This diversity in beliefs and political outlooks adds to the unique character of your new home.
Education Guide When Moving from Virginia to DC
Moving from Virginia to DC offers new opportunities and challenges, especially when it comes to education. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Virginia and DC , this guide compares key educational aspects. This will assist you in making informed decisions for you and your family.
| Virginia | DC |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Virginia Virginia Tech College of William & MaryGeorgetown University George Washington University American University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Arlington Science Focus School Arlington; Stenwood Elementary Vienna; Colvin Run Elementary ViennaLafayette Elementary School Washington; Mann Elementary School Washington; Janney Elementary School Washington | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Longfellow Middle School Falls Church; Cooper Middle School McLean; Frost Middle School FairfaxDeal Middle School Washington; Hardy Middle School Washington; Eliot-Hine Middle School Washington | |
Top 3 High Schools Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Alexandria; McLean High School McLean; Langley High School McLeanSchool Without Walls High School Washington; Banneker High School Washington; Wilson High School Washington | |
Top 3 private high schools The Madeira School McLean; St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School Alexandria; Episcopal High School AlexandriaSidwell Friends School Washington; Georgetown Day School Washington; St. Albans School Washington | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Potomac School McLean; Flint Hill School Oakton; The Langley School McLeanMaret School Washington; National Cathedral School Washington; Sidwell Friends School Washington | |
Top 3 School Districts Fairfax County Public Schools; Loudoun County Public Schools; Arlington Public SchoolsDistrict of Columbia Public Schools | |
While comparing schools in Virginia and DC, it's clear each offers exceptional education opportunities but with distinct characteristics. Virginia is renowned for its top-rated public high schools like Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria, known nationally for its STEM focus, and its comprehensive public school districts. Meanwhile, Washington, DC boasts prestigious private schools such as Sidwell Friends and specialized public schools like School Without Walls, highlighting the city's focus on diverse educational environments. Both Virginia and DC have schools that frequently send graduates to top colleges, emphasizing their commitment to high academic standards.
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