Washington DC, MD to Chesapeake, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Chesapeake typically costs $1,600–$4,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 206 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
|
|
|
 rating
4.2 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Cost to move from Washington DC to Chesapeake
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Chesapeake, VA typically costs $1,600–$4,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 206-mile move from Washington DC to Chesapeake, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2-3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $886 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $1,970 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,157 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Mar 04, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Mar 02, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 12, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 10, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 19, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 18, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 08, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 26, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Washington DC to Chesapeake move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,000 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,900 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 $200 to $600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chesapeake, VA to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Chesapeake movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Washington DC to Chesapeake
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Washington DC to Chesapeake 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→VA 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 Chesapeake
Many movers find Chesapeake easier on the wallet than Washington DC - roughly 53% less for singles and 67% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,882 for one person in Chesapeake versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it's $3,656 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Chesapeake | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,775 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $2,250 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $375,209 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $63,484 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $1,882 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $3,656 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 5.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 5.75% |
- When relocating from Washington DC to Chesapeake, expect to find rent about 25% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 37% more affordable in Chesapeake compared to Washington DC.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 38% lower in Chesapeake compared to Washington DC.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Chesapeake, as the cost of living for a single person is 53% lower compared to Washington DC.
- A move to Chesapeake 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 67% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Chesapeake is about 29% lower than in Washington DC. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Chesapeake and Washington DC (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes have a close resemblance in Virginia and Maryland, staying within a 5% variance. Your financial deductions should remain stable, facilitating a straightforward adjustment to your new setting.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Washington DC and Chesapeake:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Chesapeake |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $302.50 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $3.36 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $4.17 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $13.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $43.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Chesapeake, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Chesapeake.
- Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Chesapeake.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Chesapeake.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Chesapeake.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Chesapeake.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Chesapeake.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Chesapeake
| Washington DC | Chesapeake | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 249,422 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 2 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 21 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 35 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 25.0 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 70.88 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chesapeake's population is about 63% less than Washington DC.
- Chesapeake's public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC's score of 9.
- Chesapeake is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 21 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Chesapeake has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Chesapeake's crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 25.0 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Chesapeake neighborhoods are safer than 25.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Chesapeake is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 70.88 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
- Air quality in Chesapeake is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Chesapeake 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: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Virginia’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Virginia 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 Chesapeake. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Chesapeake
Planning your move to Chesapeake? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Chesapeake.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Capital District
- Central Office
- East Ghent
- Radnor/Fort Myer Heights
- Colonial Village
- North Ghent
- North Highland
- Ghent
- North Rosslyn
- City Center
Best neighborhoods for families
- Greenbrier
- Great Bridge
- Hickory
Things to do in Chesapeake
After settling into your new Virginia home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chesapeake has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chesapeake features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum, AR Workshop Chesapeake, and Portlock Galleries at SoNo.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Oak Grove Lake Park, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Northwest River Park, and Chesapeake Arboretum — 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 Southern Chesapeake Athletic Association (youth baseball and softball)Oscar Smith Tigers (high school sports) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Chesapeake?
Planning your move from Washington DC to Chesapeake? 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 Chesapeake?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake take?
The 206-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Chesapeake, VA, typically takes one to two 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 Chesapeake.
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.
