Washington DC, MD to Memphis, TN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Memphis typically costs $2,600–$6,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 876 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Washington DC to Memphis
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Memphis, TN typically costs $2,600–$6,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 876-mile move from Washington DC to Memphis, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- American Van Lines recently quoted $5,524 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,661 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,977 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 25, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 09, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 05, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 23, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 19, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 31, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 27, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 20, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 19, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Washington DC to Memphis move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,200 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,000 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Washington DC.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $700 to $1,900, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Memphis, TN to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Memphis movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Memphis
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Washington DC to Memphis much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best MD→TN movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 51 Maryland movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Memphis
Many movers find Memphis easier on the wallet than Washington DC - roughly 54% less for singles and 60% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,842 for one person in Memphis versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it's $4,402 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,187 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $1,571 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $143,715 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $48,090 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $1,842 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $4,402 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.75% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 0.0% |
- When relocating from Washington DC to Memphis, expect to find rent about 46% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 76% more affordable in Memphis compared to Washington DC.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 53% lower in Memphis compared to Washington DC.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Memphis, as the cost of living for a single person is 54% lower compared to Washington DC.
- A move to Memphis can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 60% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- Memphis shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Washington DC by around 14%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Memphis are 63% more than in Washington DC, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Washington DC and Memphis:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $213.78 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $58.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.12 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $2.83 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $19.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $37.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Memphis, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Memphis.
- Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Memphis.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Memphis.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Memphis.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Memphis.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Memphis.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Memphis
| Washington DC | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 633,104 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 41 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 77.49 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 22.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Memphis's population is about 6% less than Washington DC.
- Memphis's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC's score of 9.
- Memphis is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Memphis has a bike-friendliness score of 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Memphis's crime rate is higher than Washington DC with a score of 77.49 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Memphis is considered to be less safe than Washington DC with a score of 22.51 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
- Air quality in Memphis is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Memphis move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Tennessee’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Memphis. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Memphis
Planning your move to Bluff City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Memphis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Binghampton
- Cooper-Young
- Crosstown
- Downtown
- Midtown
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bartlett
- Cordova
- East Memphis
- Germantown
- River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral
Things to do in Memphis
After settling into your new Tennessee home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Memphis has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Memphis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Shelby Farms Park, Mud Island River Park, Tom Lee Park, and Levitt Shell — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Memphis?
Planning your move from Washington DC to Memphis? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Memphis?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Memphis in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Memphis take?
The 876-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Memphis, TN, typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Memphis.
Are there special savings available from movers in Washington DC?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 7 have discounts for military personnel. 14 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Washington DC?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Washington DC, 59 movers can manage piano relocations. 44 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maryland has 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
