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($1,249) Cost to Move From San Diego, CA to Washington DC, MD

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Estimated cost & time: For a 2,651 mile move from San Diego to Washington DC, costs typically range from $1,551 to $7,377. Plan for the travel time to be around seven–21 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from San Diego to Washington DC

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from San Diego to Washington DC

If you want to simplify your interstate move from San Diego to Washington DC, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 25 interstate moving companies located in San Diego, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Washington DC seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from San Diego to Washington DC

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,651-mile move from San Diego to Washington DC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,359 – $5,702
  • Moving Container $1,872 – $3,633
  • Rental Truck $1,462 – $2,691
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,863 – $7,377
  • Moving Container $2,282 – $5,057
  • Rental Truck $1,551 – $3,204
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,838 – $11,546
  • Moving Container $3,178 – $6,547
  • Rental Truck $2,040 – $4,220
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Winter Gardens, CA Melwood, MD
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 21, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Hillcrest, CA Mount Airy, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Imperial Beach, CA Kettering, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
San Marcos, CA Capitol Heights, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
Safeway Moving
Valley Center, CA Adelphi, MD
4 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
National City, CA Milford Mill, MD
4 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Vista, CA Takoma Park, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 18, 2025
American Van Lines
Casa de Oro-Mount Helix, CA North Laurel, MD
4 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
PODS
Camp Pendleton South, CA Annapolis, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 27, 2025
North American Van Lines
Bostonia, CA Mount Rainier, MD
Studio apartment
Aug 08, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Washington DC, MD to San Diego, CA guide.

The best local movers for San Diego to Washington DC moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in San Diego that also handles long-distance moves to Washington DC. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 29 local movers in San Diego who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from San Diego to Washington DC.

  1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Grizzly Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.4% of all reviews were positive
21.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic’s track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.0% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Stella Moving & Delivery shows a standout excellence in moving services. Out of 331 reviews analyzed, 94% are positive, highlighting reliable efficiency, courteous and skilled crews, and careful handling of customer belongings. Many reviewers praise their rapid pace, clear communication, and impressive professionalism compared to other moving companies. Clients repeatedly cite stress-free experiences, transparent pricing, and well-organized teams as key benefits. On the flip side, a small portion of reviewers report concerns about damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and difficulties reaching the company after issues arise. Some mention poor problem resolution by management, particularly regarding claims and complaints. While negative input does exist, it’s significantly outweighed by positive experiences. Compared to most moving services, Stella maintains a much higher percentage of five-star ratings and customer satisfaction, with efficiency and care as their calling card.
Get a Quote (619) 393-6426

Company Info

State license #: 0191958

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3299407

Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery , The Remarkable Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.6% of all reviews were positive
6.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.2% of all reviews were positive
16.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dominant Moving Company stands out in San Diego’s moving industry for fast, careful, and professional crews. Of the 360 feedback entries reviewed, more than 82% came from highly satisfied customers praising efficient service, polite staff, and impressive price-to-quality value. Clients emphasize how movers protect belongings, communicate well, and finish jobs on schedule. Affordable rates and careful handling of items set Dominant apart from many competitors. Some negative input highlights recurring issues: damage to furniture or property, slow or late arrivals, and unsatisfactory responses to complaints. A few clients report unresolved claims for damage or difficulty contacting management after a problem. While delays and breakage occasionally impact experiences, most people say their moves were smooth and cost-effective—attributes that help Dominant edge out local rivals in reliability and value. The company’s reputation is built on speed, care, and affordability, but future customers should clarify damage procedures and timing expectations before booking.
Get a Quote (855) 699-2299

Company Info

State license #: 191165

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2718191

Alternate Names: Velorom LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from San Diego to Washington DC?

The average hourly rate for movers in California is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,249 – $5,116 $1,407 – $3,269 $1,535 – $2,804
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,863 – $7,377 $2,282 – $5,057 $1,551 – $3,204
4+ bedrooms $6,838 – $11,546 $3,178 – $6,547 $2,040 – $4,220
*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,651-mile move from San Diego to Washington DC are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from San Diego to Washington DC

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from San Diego to Washington DC will cost between $1,249 and $5,116. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from San Diego to San Diego will range from $3,863 to $7,377, and a large move from San Diego to Washington DC will cost from $6,838 to $11,546.

Cost of moving containers from San Diego to Washington DC

If you’re moving from San Diego to Washington DC, expect to pay between $1,407 and $3,269 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,282 up to $5,057. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,178 and $6,547. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Diego to Washington DC

Renting a moving truck from San Diego to Washington DC is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,535 and $2,804. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,551 and $3,204. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,040 up to $4,220 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from San Diego to Washington DC

The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,641, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $11,250.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in San Diego, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,535–$3,887) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from San Diego to Washington DC

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Washington DC runs about 18% higher for singles and 44% higher for families than San Diego.

Singles spend around $3,963 in San Diego versus $3,346 in San Diego; families pay $11,093 compared with $7,719.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

San Diego Washington DC
Average 1 BR rent $2,704 $2,568
Average 3 BR rent $4,914 $5,417
Average home value $1,003,444 $594,337
Average income (per capita) $72,963 $101,722
Cost of living (single) $3,346 $3,963
Cost of living (family of four) $7,719 $11,093
Unemployment rate 6.6% 7.0%
Sales tax 7.75% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 5.75%
  • If you’re heading to Washington DC from San Diego, you’ll find that rent is roughly 17% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 41% less in Washington DC than in San Diego.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 39% higher in Washington DC than in San Diego, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Washington DC, since the cost of living for a single person in Washington DC is 18% higher than in San Diego. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Washington DC, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 44% greater than in San Diego.
  • In Washington DC, the unemployment rate is approximately 6% higher than in San Diego, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes drop 23% in Washington DC compared to San Diego, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Income taxes are 57% less in Maryland than in California. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between San Diego and Washington DC:

Living Expense San Diego Washington DC
Basic utilities $277.55 $191.62
Cell phone plan $66.79 $65.80
Dozen eggs $5.26 $4.67
Loaf of bread $4.50 $4.43
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $120.00
Gym membership $65.68 $103.76
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Diego than in Washington DC.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Diego than in Washington DC.
  • Eggs cost more in San Diego than in Washington DC.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Diego than in Washington DC.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in San Diego than in Washington DC.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in San Diego than in Washington DC.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in San Diego than in Washington DC.

How life is different in San Diego vs. Washington DC

San Diego Washington DC
Population 1,386,932 672,079
Transportation score 6 9
Walkability score 53 77
Bike friendliness score 43 70
Crime index 39.83 60.37
Safety index 60.17 39.63
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Washington DC’s population is about 52% less than San Diego.
  • Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than San Diego’s score of 6.
  • Washington DC is more walkable than San Diego with a score of 77 out of 100 vs San Diego’s 53 out of 100.
  • With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than San Diego, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than San Diego with a score of 60.37 compared to San Diego’s 39.83. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
  • Washington DC is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 39.63 vs San Diego’s 60.17.
  • Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in San Diego it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Diego to Washington DC move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Maryland moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Maryland doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Washington DC. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Washington DC

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to DC, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Washington DC.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Adams Morgan
  • Capitol Hill
  • Cleveland Park
  • Foggy Bottom
  • Logan Circle

Best neighborhoods for families

  • AU-Tenleytown
  • Chevy Chase
  • Cleveland Park
  • Georgetown
  • The Palisades

Things to do in Washington DC

Once you’re settled into your new home in Maryland, it’s time to get out and discover what Washington DC has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Washington DC, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s National Mall, National Gallery of Art – Sculpture Garden, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Washington Wizards (NBA)Washington Capitals (NHL)Washington Mystics (WNBA)D.C. Untied (MLS)Washington Commanders (NFL)DC Defenders (XFL)Old Glory DC (MLR) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Diego to Washington DC?

The best time to move from San Diego to Washington DC is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in San Diego.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Washington DC?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from San Diego to Washington DC, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from San Diego to Washington DC take?

Moving from San Diego, CA to Washington DC, covers 2,651 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days. Need to move faster? Some San Diego movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Washington DC.

Which movers in San Diego give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers here honor AAA discounts. 1 movers give special rates to military members.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in San Diego?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 21 movers in San Diego advertise piano moving expertise. 16 movers in San Diego provide antique moving services. State totals show 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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