Top-rated movers to make your New York City to Washington DC move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in New York City that offers long-distance services to Washington DC can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 165 top local movers in New York City who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from New York City to Washington DC.
- NYC Great Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Imperial Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Roadway Moving : 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Alpha Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 39493
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2180117
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 32647
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1422485
Alternate Names: Lion’s Den Enterprises Inc. , Imperial Self Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 38589
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1854436
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2047066
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 2047066
Alternate Names: Alpha Movers , Alpha Relocation Services , Alpha Transportation, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 648262
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 648262
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
How much does it cost to move from New York City to Washington DC?
In New York, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $702 – $2,580 | $572 – $1,305 | $252 – $432 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,266 – $3,678 | $1,070 – $1,837 | $272 – $511 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,750 – $4,758 | $1,406 – $2,378 | $324 – $648 |
Cost to hire movers from New York City to Washington DC
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Washington DC from New York City, you can expect prices to land between $702 and $2,580. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,266 to $3,678 for the trip from New York City to Washington DC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $1,750 and $4,758.
Cost of moving containers from New York City to Washington DC
Moving containers from New York City to Washington DC will cost you $572 to $1,305 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,070 to $1,837. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,406 to $2,378. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New York City to Washington DC
Renting a moving truck from New York City to Washington DC typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $252 and $432 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $272 to $511. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $324 to $648.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your New York City to Washington DC move
The cost of New York City movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $915 for a one-bedroom, or up to $4,083 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in New York City.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $252 to $600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from New York City to Washington DC
Many movers find Washington DC easier on the wallet than New York City – roughly 30% less for singles and 26% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,963 for one person in Washington DC versus $5,683 in New York City. For a family of four, it’s $11,093 compared with $15,081.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| New York City | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $3,992 | $2,568 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $8,817 | $5,417 |
| Average home value | $752,778 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,058 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,683 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $15,081 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 11.2% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 5.75% |
- When relocating from New York City to Washington DC, expect to find rent about 45% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 21% more affordable in Washington DC compared to New York City.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 30% higher in Washington DC compared to New York City, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Washington DC, as the cost of living for a single person is 30% lower compared to New York City.
- A move to Washington DC 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 26% less than what it costs in New York City.
- The unemployment rate in Washington DC is about 37% lower than in New York City. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 25% less in Washington DC relative to New York City. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Maryland are 47% below those in New York. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between New York City and Washington DC:
| Living Expense | New York City | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $186.67 | $191.62 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.90 | $65.80 |
| Dozen eggs | $6.33 | $4.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.04 | $4.43 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $28.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $135.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $159.00 | $103.76 |
- Basic utilities cost less in New York City than in Washington DC, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in New York City than in Washington DC.
- Eggs cost more in New York City than in Washington DC.
- Bread is more expensive in New York City than in Washington DC.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in New York City than in Washington DC.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in New York City than in Washington DC.
- Gym memberships cost more in New York City than in Washington DC.
How life is different in New York City vs. Washington DC
| New York City | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,258,035 | 672,079 |
| Transportation score | 10 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 88 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 69 | 70 |
| Crime index | 50.83 | 60.37 |
| Safety index | 49.17 | 39.63 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Washington DC’s population is about 92% less than New York City.
- Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is lower than New York City’s score of 10.
- Washington DC is less walkable than New York City with a score of 77 out of 100 vs New York City’s 88 out of 100.
- Both Washington DC and New York City have similar bike-friendliness scores (69 vs 70), meaning Washington DC is about as safe for cyclists as New York City. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than New York City with a score of 60.37 compared to New York City’s 50.83. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
- Washington DC is considered to be less safe than New York City with a score of 39.63 vs New York City’s 49.17.
- Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in New York City it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your New York City to Washington DC 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 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Maryland’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Maryland 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 Washington DC. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Washington DC
Planning your move to DC? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new Maryland home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Washington DC has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Washington DC features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — 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 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 New York City to Washington DC?
Planning your move from New York City to Washington DC? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in New York City.
When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Washington DC?
Because most people are moving from New York City to Washington DC 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 New York City to Washington DC take?
The 226-mile journey from New York City, NY to Washington DC, , typically takes one to two days. Some movers in New York City offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Washington DC.
Are there special savings available from movers in New York City?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 3 provide savings for AAA members. 8 have discounts for military personnel. 9 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 New York City?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In New York City, 146 movers can manage piano relocations. 117 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, New York has 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
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