Best Tacoma to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tacoma to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,904 mile move from Washington to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 47 Tacoma 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 $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tacoma 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.

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Best Tacoma to Washington DC Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
2Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
3John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
4First Due Movers9.259.06Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5People Movers9.169.54Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Tacoma to Washington DC

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,904 miles from Tacoma, WA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,251 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Washington DC move is roughly $10,281. 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$2,849300 ft³9.50
1 Bedroom$4,251450 ft³9.45
2 Bedrooms$7,047750 ft³9.40
3 Bedrooms$10,2811100 ft³9.35
4 Bedrooms$14,8741600 ft³9.30
5+ Bedrooms$16,6431800 ft³9.25
*Please note: These Washington to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & DC. 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 WA to DC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Tacoma guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Washington DC Movers

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

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.59/10
based on 4,108+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to help you transition more smoothly by comparing Tacoma, WA & Washington DC, DC local neighborhoods . By referencing the neighborhoods you know and love in Tacoma, we'll help you discover their counterparts in Washington D.C., highlighting similarities that could make your move feel like you've hardly left home at all.

TacomaWashington DCHow They're Similar
North EndCleveland ParkFamily-friendly, historic homes
Proctor DistrictGeorgetownShopping, historic charm
Stadium DistrictDupont CircleVibrant nightlife, architecture
HilltopShawCulturally rich, revitalization
Old TownCapitol HillHistoric, community-centric
EastsideBrooklandDiverse, arts scene
South TacomaAnacostiaUp-and-coming, cultural heritage
Central TacomaLogan CircleTrendy, urban living
West EndPalisadesQuiet, family-friendly
6th AvenueU Street CorridorEclectic dining, entertainment

For those moving from Tacoma's vibrant Proctor District, Washington D.C.'s Georgetown area will feel similar with its bustling streets lined with shopping opportunities and historic allure. Georgetown's M Street and Wisconsin Avenue are akin to Proctor's charming boutiques and eateries, infusing old-world charm with a modern twist. Meanwhile, if the arts and culturally rich atmosphere of Hilltop are what you love, Shaw in D.C. offers a blend of historic landmarks and contemporary culture, including the famous 9:30 Club and the African American Civil War Memorial. For those accustomed to the laid-back, family-friendly vibe of North End, Cleveland Park in D.C. presents a similar environment with spacious historic homes and a community-centric atmosphere, not to mention access to the National Zoo and Rock Creek Park for weekend exploration.

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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.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Washington DC

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task. This comparison seeks to illuminate the transition from Tacoma, WA to Washington DC, DC , providing an honest reflection of both the good and the bad attributes of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Less historical sites
  • Lower public transportation
  • More affordable living
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Higher job opportunities
  • Many historical sites
  • Extensive public transit
  • Costlier living expenses
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Less access to nature
  • Higher cost of living
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • Larger population density
  • Fewer outdoor options
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Close to nature
  • Lower cost of living
  • Relaxed lifestyle
  • Small-city charm
  • Accessible outdoor activities

The decision to relocate from Tacoma, WA to Washington DC presents distinct changes in lifestyle, opportunities, and surroundings. While Tacoma offers the appeal of nature with places like Point Defiance Park and a more laid-back atmosphere, Washington DC boasts unmatched historical sites like the National Mall and a wealth of cultural diversity with restaurants ranging from the authentic Italian cuisine at Fiola Mare to the traditional Japanese dishes at Sakuramen. The increased job opportunities and extensive public transportation system in DC can offer a faster-paced lifestyle, yet this comes with the trade-off of higher living costs and less immediate access to natural settings. However, for those seeking to immerse themselves in a vibrant city rich in American history and culture, Washington DC offers an exciting new chapter.

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding a place's culture and vibe. Through this brief guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma, WA, and Washington DC, DC , helping you get a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new city.

TacomaWashington DC
Most iconic local food itemDungeness CrabHalf-Smoke
Most popular meat dishTacoma SausagePeruvian Chicken
Most popular street food itemFish TacosFood Truck Falafel
Most popular vegan foodVegan Banh MiVegetable Grain Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • En Rama
  • Metropolitan Market Café
  • WildFin American Grill
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • Zaytinya
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Tacoma, the Dungeness Crab showcases the city's rich seafood tradition, often found in local markets and waterfront restaurants. Tacoma Sausage, a local specialty, reflects the area's love for artisan meats. For those moving to Washington DC, the Half-Smoke is a must-try, a local sausage delicacy best enjoyed at famous eateries like Ben's Chili Bowl. The food truck scene in DC is vibrant, offering a diverse array of street food options, including falafel and Peruvian Chicken, illustrating the capital's multicultural palate. Washington DC scores higher in terms of health conscientiousness and vegan friendliness, likely due to its diverse, health-minded population and abundance of fresh produce markets.

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Relocating to a new city means immersing yourself in all it has to offer, and a big part of that is discovering where to eat. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite spots by mirroring the culinary delights of Tacoma, Washington to Washington DC, easing the transition and creating a sense of home. Whether you're craving high-end dining or casual eats, this guide has got you covered.

TacomaWashington DCWhat You'll Love
Indochine Asian Dining LoungeThip KhaoLao cuisine with a modern twist
The TableLe DiplomateClassic French bistro fare
WildFin American GrillHank's Oyster BarFresh seafood in a casual setting
Marrow KitchenBourbon SteakUpscale steakhouse dining
Moshi MoshiSushi TaroExceptional sushi and Japanese dishes
Over the Moon CaféLupo MarinoItalian cuisine with a cozy ambiance
El BorrachoOyamel Cocina MexicanaInnovative Mexican tapas
Doyle's Public HouseThe DublinerAuthentic Irish pub experience
En RamaBarmini by José AndrésCreative cocktails and small plates
Dirty Oscar's AnnexFounding FarmersFarm-to-table American comfort food

While both cities boast a vibrant culinary scene, certain spots stand out for making a seamless transition more delightful. Thip Khao and Indochine Asian Dining Lounge both offer an escape to Southeast Asia with their modern take on traditional dishes, providing an explosion of flavors that are sure to become a staple in your dining rotation. Meanwhile, fans of fresh seafood will feel right at home transitioning from WildFin American Grill to Hank's Oyster Bar, where the emphasis on fresh, local ingredients promises a mouthwatering experience every time. And for those intimate, cozy dinners, the shift from Over the Moon Café in Tacoma to Lupo Marino in Washington DC will be as comforting as the hearty Italian meals both offer. This guide not only aims to direct you towards the finest meals in your new city but also helps in recreating the familiar culinary adventures you cherished back home.

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Ready to start your move?

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial, especially when comparing two different cities like Tacoma, WA, and Washington DC, DC. Whether you're buying or renting, this comparison will help you grasp what to expect in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle.

ComparisonTacomaWashington DC
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, RanchFederal, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, GaragesHistoric Details, Proximity to Public Transport

In comparing Tacoma and Washington DC, it’s evident that the real estate market in Washington DC is pricier, both in terms of home prices and rents. However, the higher cost comes with benefits such as a more walkable and bikeable environment and a vibrant urban lifestyle likely due to its historical architecture and efficient public transportation system. Tacoma, with its more affordable housing options, offers a different charm. Houses often come with views and garages, reflecting the city's more spacious and vehicle-friendly nature. Whether you're drawn to the craftsman homes of Tacoma or the historic details of a Federal-style row house in DC, each city offers a unique living experience tailored to different preferences and lifestyles.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Tacoma, WA to Washington DC, it's crucial to understand how the weather conditions compare between your current city and your new home. This guide provides an overview of climatic differences to help you prepare for what lies ahead.

Summer icon
75°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

87°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

44°F / 28°F

Washington DC, DC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.5"

Tacoma, WA

40.76"

Washington DC, DC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6.8"

Tacoma, WA

15.4"

Washington DC, DC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTacomaWashington DC
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesHurricanes, Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Tacoma enjoys a milder climate with fewer days of sunshine and lower humidity, you'll find Washington DC experiences hotter summers and colder winters with more sunshine. Notably, DC faces higher humidity and UV index levels during summer, impacting outdoor activities and skin protection routines. Additionally, being aware of the contrasting natural disaster risks — earthquakes and volcanoes in Tacoma versus hurricanes and winter storms in DC — aids in preparing for potential emergencies. Adapting to these weather differences will be an essential part of making your new location feel like home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's critical to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Tacoma will square against what you'll find in Washington DC. This comparison aims to provide a clear perspective on this pivotal aspect.

ComparisonTacomaWashington DC
Avg. Household Income$77,141$90,088
Cost of Living Index109.5140.1
State Income Tax08.5
Avg. Property Tax1.10.56
Avg. Sales Tax10.16
Top 3 IndustriesLogistics, Healthcare, ManufacturingGovernment, Professional Services, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighModerate

While the average household income in Washington DC outpaces that of Tacoma, the cost of living index significantly higher in the nation's capital illustrates a pricier lifestyle. The absence of state income tax in Washington state contrasts sharply with the tax obligations you'd encounter in DC, potentially offsetting Tacoma's higher sales tax rate. The economic landscape is also profoundly shaped by the dominant industries, with Tacoma's logistics and manufacturing sector influencing local opportunities versus Washington DC's government and professional services sector, which attracts a different workforce demographic. Considering these factors can provide a clearer picture of the financial adjustments necessary when relocating.

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Tacoma, Washington, to Washington DC offers a vibrant blend of communities and perspectives. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents , highlighting the diverse atmosphere you'll be transitioning into. Understand the key differences in the local political leanings and religious landscapes between Tacoma & Washington DC .

TacomaWashington DC
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsMunicipal focus on economic development and public educationNational & local focus, significant federal influence
ReligionMixed, with a significant Christian presenceDiverse, higher rates of unaffiliated individuals

The juxtaposition of Tacoma and Washington DC’s political and religious climates reveals much about their respective cultural environments. Tacoma, while leaning Democratic, emphasizes issues such as economic development and public education at a local level. Washington DC, with its strongly Democratic stance, navigates both national and local political arenas, shaped by its position as the nation’s capital. Religion in Tacoma shows a significant Christian presence, but the mix is broad, reflecting a variety of beliefs. Washington DC, by contrast, is known for its diversity in religious beliefs, with a noteworthy portion of the population identifying as unaffiliated. This shift from Tacoma to Washington DC marks a transition into a distinctly different community dynamic, one shaped by political importance and diverse religious expressions.

Tacoma vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tacoma, WA, to Washington DC, DC, means adjusting to new traffic and transportation dynamics. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Washington DC will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like.

ComparisonTacomaWashington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2730
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingYes

In Tacoma, the average commute time is slightly shorter, but traffic congestion is less intense than in Washington DC. Public transportation in Tacoma is decent, but the system in Washington DC is more extensive and reliable, making it easier for residents to get by without a car. This is largely due to DC's comprehensive metro system, which provides broad coverage across the city and into neighboring areas. In contrast, Tacoma leans more heavily on buses and the Sounder Commuter Rail, requiring more planning for those choosing not to own a car.

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