($1,345) Movers From California to Washington DC, MD

1. Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
3. 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Washington DC, MD

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Washington DC, MD, you can expect to spend between $1,345 and $5,399. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,094 to $7,594 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $7,483 and $11,888.

Cost of moving containers from California to Washington DC, MD

When moving from California to Washington DC, MD, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,463 and $3,577. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,497 to $4,957. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,445 up to $6,762. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Washington DC, MD

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from California to Washington DC, MD, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,447 and $2,835. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,699 and $3,410. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,106 and $4,358.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• Rent in Washington DC is roughly 29% higher than in California. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
• On average, homes in Washington DC cost 23% less than in California, making your move budget-friendly.
• You’ll typically earn about 11% more in Washington DC than in California, which means extra breathing room in your budget, whether you want to spend more or save more.
• With unemployment 30% higher in Washington DC than California, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
• You’ll pay roughly 57% less in state income taxes in Maryland compared to California, so you keep more of what you earn.

• Washington DC voted Republican, while California was Democratic.
• Summer in Washington DC usually hits around 89ºF, pretty similar to the 87ºF you’re used to in California. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
• During the coldest part of the year, Washington DC gets down to 27ºF while California only dips to 59ºF. Relocating to Washington DC means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
• Expect about 43 inches of rain each year in Washington DC—compared to just 22 inches in California. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
• Every year, Washington DC gets around 14 inches of snow, much more than the 7 inches that California typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
• Washington DC has a higher crime rate than California with a crime index of 60.37 vs 28.43. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.

• HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
• Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a Maryland moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
• Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Maryland, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
• Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Maryland without any delays. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
• Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.