Best Tacoma to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Tacoma to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,943 mile move from Washington to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 64 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
Cost to Move from Tacoma to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,943 miles from Tacoma, WA to Boston, MA will cost on average $4,284 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Boston move is roughly $10,362. 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 | $2,871 | 300 ft³ | 9.57 |
1 Bedroom | $4,284 | 450 ft³ | 9.52 |
2 Bedrooms | $7,102 | 750 ft³ | 9.47 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,362 | 1100 ft³ | 9.42 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,992 | 1600 ft³ | 9.37 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,776 | 1800 ft³ | 9.32 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma 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

171 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) |

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) |

First Due Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
Registered Drivers | 20 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |

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.
Tacoma vs. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially to a city as historically rich and diverse as Boston. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Boston, MA , using your familiarity with Tacoma to help you find your new Boston neighborhood. This guide aims to make your move smoother by linking what you know with what you're about to discover.
Tacoma | Boston | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
North End | North End, Boston | Historic, vibrant community |
Proctor District | Beacon Hill | Historic homes, cozy feel |
Stadium District | Back Bay | Architectural landmarks, chic retail |
Hilltop | Jamaica Plain | Diverse community, green spaces |
Old Town | Charlestown | Rich history, waterfront views |
Point Defiance | South Boston | Beach access, strong community |
Sixth Avenue | North End | Bustling nightlife, fine dining |
Lincoln District | Allston | Lively, eclectic mix of cultures |
Central Tacoma | Fenway | Cultural hotspots, iconic parks |
Ruston | Seaport District | Modern, waterfront living |
If you're captivated by the charming, historical vibes of Tacoma's Proctor District, with its quaint shopping areas like Proctor District Association and community-focused atmosphere, you'll find a similar spirit in Boston's Beacon Hill. Beacon Hill is renowned for its gas-lit streets, brick sidewalks, and the picturesque Boston Common. For those who love the arts and bustling vibes of Tacoma's Stadium District, Boston's Back Bay, with landmarks like Boston Symphony Orchestra and the posh Newbury Street, offers an unmatched cosmopolitan experience. Meanwhile, the greenery and diversity in Hilltop parallel Jamaica Plain's open spaces like the Jamaica Pond, fostering community engagement and outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Boston
Moving from Tacoma, WA to Boston, MA requires a deep dive into what changes await. This comparison charts aim to mirror an honest reflection of both the good and the bad aspects of this relocation journey. Let's examine how the cons of Tacoma stack up against the pros of Boston and vice versa, providing you with a clear, balanced view of your potential new life.
- Less historical sites
- Lower walkability
- Fewer cultural events
- More affordable housing
- Less extreme weather
- Rich history
- High walkability
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Higher cost of living
- Harsher winters
- Less green space
- Expensive housing
- Faster pace of life
- Competitive job market
- Cold, snowy winters
- Beautiful natural scenery
- More affordable cost of living
- Relaxed pace
- Growing job market
- Milder climate
Moving to Boston presents a dramatic shift, especially in terms of cultural exposure and historical richness. Boston's Freedom Trail, for instance, is a 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States. On the other hand, Tacoma is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, such as the Point Defiance Park, offering vast areas for hiking, picnics, and beach access. Housing in Boston, particularly in neighborhoods like Back Bay and Beacon Hill, can be quite expensive, reflecting the city's dense, urban environment contrasted with Tacoma's more spacious and affordable living options. Despite a higher cost of living, Boston excels with its vibrant cultural scene, hosting numerous festivals, art exhibitions at places like the Museum of Fine Arts, and live performances at the historic Boston Opera House. This shift promises a blend of exciting cultural enrichment and historical exploration, albeit with a brisker pace and cooler climate.
Tacoma vs. Boston Food Guide
We'll explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Boston to help you gain a snapshot of each city's food scene. Understanding local cuisine is crucial in getting a taste of what life will be like in your new home, allowing you to better immerse yourself in the culinary delights that await.
Tacoma | Boston | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Seafood chowder | Clam chowder |
Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | Lobster roll |
Most popular street food item | Fish tacos | Cannoli |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan pho | Vegan chowder |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Boston, you'll find yourself in the midst of a vibrant food scene that proudly boasts its historic roots. The iconic clam chowder, served in many restaurants throughout the city, particularly shines in establishments like Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant. For a taste of Boston's famous seafood, head to the bustling Neptune Oyster in the North End. This neighborhood is renowned not just for its seafood but for its Italian fare, including mouthwatering cannoli from local bakeries. Boston's commitment to health and sustainability is evident in its numerous vegan options and the popularity of fitness activities throughout the city, making it an exciting culinary destination for foodies and health enthusiasts alike.
Tacoma vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your next favorite meal. This guide compares unique Tacoma eateries with their Boston counterparts to easily transition your dining experiences from Tacoma to Boston , ensuring you feel at home in no time.
Tacoma | Boston | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Myers + Chang | Modern take on Asian cuisine, with a fun and creative menu |
The Table | Neptune Oyster | High-end, seafood-focused dining with a cozy atmosphere |
Engine House No. 9 | Trillium Brewery | Both offer a rustic vibe with a focus on craft beer and hearty meals |
Asado | Toro | Both specialize in bold flavors and grilled meats, offering a high-end dining experience |
Doyle's Public House | The Black Rose | Authentic pub atmosphere, offering live music and traditional fare |
Pacific Grill | Row 34 | Both are known for their sophisticated take on seafood and American cuisine |
Moshi Moshi | o ya | Both present a refined approach to sushi and Japanese dishes, in a chic setting |
Stanley & Seafort's | Mare Oyster Bar | Both offer stunning views and specialize in sea-to-table dining |
El Borracho | Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar | Both offer a vibrant atmosphere with a creative take on Mexican cuisine |
Frisko Freeze | Sullivan’s Castle Island | Iconic spots for quick, delicious burgers and shakes |
When you're missing the comfort of Tacoma's Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, Myers + Chang in Boston will win you over with its innovative Asian cuisine, ensuring a seamless culinary transition. Similarly, the longing for Asado's grilled meats will find a perfect match at Toro, where the focus on intricate flavors and quality ingredients mirrors that distinct, high-end dining experience you cherished. For those casual nights out, swapping Doyle's Public House with The Black Rose will continue the tradition of enjoying vibrant pub cultures complete with live music and a pint of your favorite brew, keeping the essence of your Tacoma favorites alive in the heart of Boston.

Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical facet when planning a relocation. Understanding the differences between your prospective and current cities can empower your decision-making. This comparison focuses on the real estate landscapes of Tacoma, WA, and Boston, MA, delving into aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle offerings to highlight what each city brings to the table.
Comparison | Tacoma | Boston |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Federal and Victorian |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | View of Mt. Rainier, large yards | Proximity to public transportation, historic charm |
Moving from Tacoma to Boston, you'll notice stark contrasts in the housing landscape. Boston's higher urban density is reflected in its increased walkability and bikeability scores, offering you a lifestyle where cars can become an option rather than a necessity. The city's rich history is prominently displayed through its diverse architectural styles, from Federal to Victorian, which contribute to Boston's unique charm. On the other hand, Tacoma provides a more laid-back atmosphere, with homes often boasting large yards and views of Mt. Rainier, catering to those who appreciate the blend of city life and nature. Whether exploring Mt. Rainier National Park from Tacoma or immersing yourself in Boston's historic Boston Common, each city offers a distinct lifestyle that caters to varying preferences.

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.
Tacoma vs. Boston Weather Considerations
Moving across the country requires adapting to new circumstances, among which weather plays a significant role. By comparing the climates of your current city, Tacoma, WA, and your new home, Boston, MA, this guide aims to help understand and prepare for the differences you'll experience. Knowing what to expect can ease the transition and help you plan for changes in wardrobe, activities, and even your daily routine.
Tacoma, WA
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Tacoma | Boston |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When you move from Tacoma to Boston, you'll experience more extreme seasonal changes. Boston's winters are significantly colder, with much more snowfall, which could be a big adjustment if you're not used to snow. Meanwhile, summers in Boston are warmer. Another important factor is the number of sunny days; Boston enjoys more sunshine throughout the year compared to Tacoma. Despite Boston’s higher humidity, it generally has a lower annual rainfall but compensates with its higher snowfall. Understanding these differences is crucial for planning seasonal activities and managing any weather-related challenges that might arise.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Boston
When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the financial aspects of your life will be impacted. This comparison aims to shed light on the key financial differences between Tacoma, WA, and Boston, MA, vital for planning your relocation effectively.
Comparison | Tacoma | Boston |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $79,283 |
Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 132.5 |
State Income Tax | 0% | 5% |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.1% | 1.2% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 10.3% | 6.25% |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing | Education, Health Services, Finance |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Notable | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Concern |
In transitioning from Tacoma to Boston, you're not just moving across the country; you're entering a significantly different economic ecosystem. Boston's average household income is higher, but this is counterbalanced by a notably higher cost of living, making budget management crucial for new residents. However, the presence of a state income tax in Massachusetts, as opposed to Washington’s absence of it, represents an additional financial consideration. Boston's reputation for affluence is reflected in its strong education, health services, and finance industries, potentially offering more lucrative employment opportunities compared to Tacoma's focus on healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Understanding these dynamics can help you make informed decisions about your move and future in Boston.
Tacoma vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
This guide aims to provide a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Tacoma & Boston, offering insight into the political and religious makeup of the two cities. This comparison will help you understand the community you're moving to or from at a glance.
Tacoma | Boston | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Moderate, with a focus on local businesses and environmental policies | Liberal, with initiatives on education, healthcare, and climate change |
Religion | Mix, with significant Christian and non-religious communities | Diverse, with a historical Catholic majority but growing other faiths and non-affiliated residents |
While both Tacoma and Boston lean Democratic, Boston's political scene is notably more liberal, often leading initiatives on education reform, healthcare access, and ambitious climate change policies. This reflects the city's rich academic and technological environment. On the religion front, both cities showcase diversity, but Boston's history is deeply intertwined with Catholicism, which remains a significant presence. However, like Tacoma, it's experiencing growth in other faith communities and those identifying as non-religious. Understanding these elements can help you appreciate the diverse communities and political climates of your new city.
Tacoma vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tacoma, WA to Boston, MA, it's crucial to understand the differences in driving and public transit options between the two cities. This comparison will give you a better sense of what the daily commute and traffic is like, helping you to plan your move and daily life in your new city.
Comparison | Tacoma | Boston |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 31 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, with some planning | Yes, especially in the city center |
In comparing Tacoma and Boston, you'll find both cities offer unique commuting experiences. While the average commute time is slightly longer in Boston, the city compensates with a more robust public transit system, rated higher than Tacoma's. This is largely due to Boston's extensive MBTA system, which includes subways, buses, ferries, and commuter rail services. Hence, in Boston, you're more likely to enjoy the convenience of getting around without a car, especially if you live and work in proximity to the city center. On the other hand, Tacoma, while having a manageable level of traffic congestion, still requires some planning if you wish to rely on public transit, given it's less comprehensive than Boston's.



Additional Resources
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