Best Seattle to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,929 mile move from Washington to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 72 Seattle to Boston 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 Stairhopper 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 Seattle compared to Boston. 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 Seattle to Boston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,929 miles from Seattle, WA to Boston, MA will cost on average $4,272 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Boston move is roughly $10,333. 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 | $2,863 | 300 ft³ | 9.54 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,272 | 450 ft³ | 9.49 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,083 | 750 ft³ | 9.44 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,333 | 1100 ft³ | 9.39 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,949 | 1600 ft³ | 9.34 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,728 | 1800 ft³ | 9.29 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Boston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
People Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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.
Seattle vs. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, getting to know your new neighborhood can feel like an overwhelming puzzle. To simplify this transition, we've created a guide to compare the popular neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Boston, MA . This comparison is designed to help you align your familiar preferences with similar environments in your new city, ensuring a smoother adjustment to your new surroundings.
| Seattle | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Belltown | South End | Diverse and artistic vibe |
| Capitol Hill | Back Bay | Historic with vibrant nightlife |
| Queen Anne | Beacon Hill | Charming and steeped in history |
| Fremont | Jamaica Plain | Eclectic and community-focused |
| Ballard | North End | Rich in culture and cuisine |
| Greenwood | Roslindale | Residential with a laid-back atmosphere |
| West Seattle | Dorchester | Diverse with a strong sense of community |
| Wallingford | Brookline | Friendly with excellent amenities |
| Pioneer Square | Charlestown | Historic waterfront charm |
| South Lake Union | Seaport District | Modern with tech and innovation focus |
If you relish the vibrant nightlife and historic charm of Capitol Hill, you'll find a similar spirit in Boston's Back Bay, known for its picturesque streets and bustling atmosphere. Fans of laid-back, cultural hubs like Fremont will appreciate Jamaica Plain's eclectic mix of restaurants, galleries, and community events. Meanwhile, Ballard's maritime heritage and culinary scene find a counterpart in the North End, Boston's oldest neighborhood, famed for its Italian restaurants and historic sites such as Paul Revere's house. This cross-city neighborhood comparison is designed to ease your transition by highlighting familiar comforts and exciting new locales to explore, from parks and markets to cultural landmarks.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Boston
Making the decision to relocate can be complex, involving a balance of factors both positive and negative. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad aspects of moving from Seattle, WA to Boston, MA, helping you weigh your options thoroughly.
Seattle, WA- High living costs
- Frequent rain
- Heavy traffic
- Less historical depth
Boston, MA- Rich historical sites
- Distinct seasons
- Better public transit
- More educational opportunities
Boston, MA- Harsher winters
- Smaller city feel
- Higher education cost
- Less outdoor activities
Seattle, WA- Nature access
- Progressive culture
- Dynamic tech scene
- Vibrant music scene
Moving from Seattle to Boston translates into a shift from the laid-back, nature-surrounded environment of the Pacific Northwest, to the history-steeped, academic atmosphere of New England. Boston's Freedom Trail and Adams National Historical Park offer glimpses into America's founding, unmatched by the younger city of Seattle. However, Seattleites might miss the dense greenery and expansive parks like Discovery Park. Boston’s public transit system, specifically the MBTA -- known locally as “The T” -- far outstrips Seattle's, making commuting more manageable, despite Boston’s notorious winters. Notably, moving to Boston means embracing its compact city feel, a stark contrast to Seattle's sprawling landscapes, but also a transition to a city where American history feels alive at every corner.
Seattle vs. Boston Food Guide
As you plan your move, it's essential to consider the culinary landscapes of your current and future homes. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and daily life. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Boston to help you get a taste of what to expect and excite your palate for the new flavors awaiting you.
| Seattle | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Cannoli |
| Most popular vegan food | Pho | Vegetarian Sushi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Boston, the local cuisine inherits a rich palette of flavors from the sea, most notably through its famous clam chowder found in establishments across the city, like the historical Union Oyster House. Another quintessential Boston experience is enjoying a lobster roll, possibly at spots like Neptune Oyster in the North End, which also hosts the iconic Mike's Pastry known for its array of cannoli flavors. The North End, Boston's Little Italy, is a haven for food lovers looking to dive deep into the city's culinary heritage. Here, the densely populated streets offer an array of dining experiences that cater to both the seafood aficionado and those with a penchant for the sweeter things in life.
Seattle vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering new favorite dining spots is essential for making a new city feel like home. This comparison between Seattle and Boston restaurants is designed to help you quickly find local equivalents to your beloved Seattle eateries. Whether you're craving high-end, casual, foodie, affordable, or iconic meals, this guide aims to smooth your culinary transition.
| Seattle | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Oleana | Both offer an exquisite fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | Neptune Oyster | Known for exceptional seafood with a cozy, yet upscale atmosphere. |
| Pike Place Chowder | Legal Sea Foods | Both have been recognized for serving some of the best chowder in their respective cities. |
| Pizzeria Credo | Regina Pizzeria | Offering authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas beloved by locals. |
| Tamarind Tree | Pho Basil | Both provide a delightful exploration of Vietnamese cuisine in a casual dining setting. |
| Mamnoon | Sarma | Both restaurants offer an inventive take on Middle Eastern flavors in a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Matt's in the Market | Row 34 | High quality, fresh seafood with a farm-to-table approach in both. |
| Revel | Myers + Chang | A modern approach to Asian cuisine, with a funky and casual vibe. |
| Salumi | Monica’s Mercato | Both are cherished for their exquisite cured meats and sandwiches. |
| Serious Pie | Stoked Wood Fired Pizza Co. | Both are famous for their artisanal pizzas with unique toppings. |
Among these matchups, Neptune Oyster and The Walrus and the Carpenter stand out for their exceptional seafood offerings, each bringing the best of their local waters to the forefront. On the other end of the spectrum, for those missing the heartwarming, vibrant flavors of the Middle East, Sarma in Boston mirrors Mamnoon's innovative dishes, with both restaurants earning accolades for their creative menus and enticing atmospheres. Similarly, pizza afficionados transitioning from Seattle will be pleased to discover Regina Pizzeria's traditional, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas that echo the artisanal quality and passion found at Pizzeria Credo. These recommended establishments not only promise a seamless culinary transition but also offer a taste of Boston's diverse food scene, reflecting the same passion for quality ingredients and memorable dining experiences found back in Seattle.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how the housing market compares between Seattle, WA, and Boston, MA is vital in making an informed decision. This comparison highlights key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle attributes to guide your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Seattle | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Victorian and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Eco-friendly features | Historic details, Access to public transit |
When comparing Seattle and Boston, it's essential to consider more than just the numbers. Seattle's modern and Craftsman homes cater to those seeking a mixture of the new and the nostalgic, often emphasizing eco-friendly features and stunning views. In contrast, Boston's real estate market is rich in history, showcasing Victorian and Federal architecture with a keen focus on preserving historic details. Walkability and access to public transit are highly prized in both cities, but Boston edges out with its compact urban layout, making it slightly more pedestrian and bike-friendly. Both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, but your preference for modern versus historic settings might tip the scale.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Seattle vs. Boston Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between Seattle, WA and Boston, MA is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Seattle, WA
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Snowstorms, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Seattle to Boston, you'll experience a significant change in both winter temperatures and snowfall. Boston's winters are notably colder, with the average low dipping to 22°F, and it sees substantial snowfall, averaging around 48 inches annually, compared to Seattle's mere 5 inches. Summers in Boston are also warmer and more humid, which might be a pleasant contrast for those accustomed to Seattle's milder climate. However, both cities share a similar level of annual sunshine, with Boston enjoying slightly more sunny days. This indicates that while you might need to invest in warmer winter clothing and snow gear for Boston, you'll also have more opportunities to enjoy sunny days outdoors.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Boston
When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Boston, MA, taking a closer look at financial and economic factors is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights the differences and similarities in cost of living, tax rates, and economic conditions between Seattle and Boston to help you understand how your finances might be affected.
| Comparison | Seattle | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99% | 1.23% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1% | 6.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Education, Health Services, Finance |
| Affluence | High | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Low | Low to Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While Seattle and Boston share similarities, such as a significant level of homelessness, there are notable financial contrasts to prepare for. Seattle's average household income is higher, but so is its cost of living index, reflecting the pricier lifestyle. Interestingly, Seattle residents benefit from a 0% state income tax, a notable advantage over Boston's 5%. However, Boston counters with a lower average sales tax. The primary industries also differ, with Seattle leaning towards technology and aerospace, while Boston is a hub for education, health services, and finance. These economic backdrops could significantly impact your employment opportunities and day-to-day expenses following your move.
Seattle vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another brings about interesting changes, especially when it comes to understanding the local community you'll be joining. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Seattle & Boston as well as a look into the religious makeup of both cities, offering a quick snapshot to help you gauge the atmosphere of your new home.
| Seattle | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, environmental focus | Historic focus on education and healthcare reform |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Higher Catholic presence |
Both Seattle and Boston are known for their liberal/Democratic leanings, making them similar in political makeup. However, the local political landscapes offer insights into what matters to each city's residents. In Seattle, there's a strong emphasis on progressive policies with a significant focus on environmental sustainability. This might be reflected in the various initiatives and environmental programs the city undertakes. Contrastingly, Boston's historical roots have deeply influenced its focus on education and healthcare reforms, making it a hub for some of the world's leading institutions and hospitals. Religion in Seattle is marked by a less affiliated population, whereas Boston has a strong Catholic presence thanks to its historical and Irish heritage. Understanding these nuances can help you blend into your new city's social fabric more smoothly.
Seattle vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA, to Boston, MA, presents a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options of these distinctive cities. This guide is designed to help you understand what to expect in terms of the daily commute and traffic, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Seattle | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some effort | Easily |
When moving from Seattle to Boston, you'll notice some key differences in how you may approach your daily commute. Boston, with its higher public transit score, offers more robust transportation options like the MBTA, which includes subways, buses, ferries, and trains, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. Moreover, Boston's slightly higher traffic congestion rating reflects its compact urban layout and historical roads, which can present a unique challenge for drivers. However, the city's commitment to public transportation and walkability significantly eases the burden of commuting. In contrast, Seattle, while still offering solid public transit options, often requires a bit more planning and reliance on car travel, especially for those living outside the urban core.
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