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($1,223) Cost to Move From Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, MD

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Estimated cost & time: For a 2,668 mile move from Los Angeles to Washington DC, costs typically range from $1,535 to $7,685. 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Los Angeles 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 96 interstate moving companies located in Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,668-mile move from Los Angeles 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 $2,508 – $5,877
  • Moving Container $1,853 – $3,455
  • Rental Truck $1,432 – $2,889
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,900 – $7,685
  • Moving Container $2,354 – $4,957
  • Rental Truck $1,535 – $3,305
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,336 – $11,903
  • Moving Container $3,178 – $6,479
  • Rental Truck $1,900 – $4,179
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.
North American Van Lines
Santa Monica, CA Capitol Heights, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Garden Grove, CA Ilchester, MD
3 Bedrooms
Oct 12, 2025
United Van Lines
Lake Sherwood, CA Kettering, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Mayflower Transit
View Park-Windsor Hills, CA Urbana, MD
4 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
PODS
El Monte, CA Rosaryville, MD
2 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
Roadway Moving
Cerritos, CA Fort Washington, MD
4 Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
Safeway Moving
Hasley Canyon, CA Lanham, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
BLVD Moving
Seal Beach, CA Clarksburg, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
La Cañada Flintridge, CA Redland, MD
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Walnut Park, CA North Potomac, MD
3 Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025

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

The best local movers for Los Angeles to Washington DC moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Los Angeles that also handles long-distance moves to Washington DC. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 102 local movers in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  4. Excalibur Movers Los Angeles: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.2% of all reviews were positive
11.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend. Clients appreciate Seka’s responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo’s Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo’s stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo’s would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easier and faster—that’s what hundreds of customers say about Excalibur Movers Los Angeles. From 1,281 reviews analyzed, 89% are glowing with praise, with people consistently highlighting the company’s efficiency, speed, professionalism, and careful handling of their belongings. Customers consistently praise the crews for being fast, organized, and courteous, with many mentioning that moves finish ahead of schedule and under budget. Competitive pricing is another frequent compliment, making them stand out from many pricier competitors. Frequent repeat customers say items always arrive safe and sound, and the moving process is reliable and stress-free. A small portion of feedback (8%) points to issues like items arriving damaged, unexpected extra charges, or occasional delays, with some customers reporting tough claim resolution or poor customer support after problems. Neutral reviews often mention minor mishaps or communication lapses but still appreciate efficient service. Compared to other movers, Excalibur’s team consistently runs smoother moves at great value with notably fewer complaints about damage or hidden costs. If you want an efficient move with friendly pros, most customer input shows Excalibur is a top choice—but double-check your quote for possible extras and inspect your items on delivery.
Get a Quote (877) 557-7777

Company Info

State license #: 019128

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1383790

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.3% of all reviews were positive
6.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call NorthStar Moving Company a standout in the moving industry, praising efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, quick process, and communication. Out of 1,215 reviews, 92% gave positive input. Customers frequently thank staff for protecting their belongings, arriving promptly, and making stressful transitions much easier. Rates are seen as competitive or a good value, especially compared to other movers who charge more or damage items. Communication with office staff and movers is often highlighted as a reassurance during stressful moves, with efficient booking and helpful support being noted advantages. Negative feedback appears in only 6% of responses, with the biggest concerns being damaged items, higher-than-expected charges, and some delayed arrivals or deliveries. A few customers experienced discrepancies between estimates and final pricing, or had items lost or mishandled. Others mentioned follow-up to resolve issues but found the claims process or communication for resolution challenging. NorthStar earns its reputation by consistently going above and beyond for most customers, solving moving day obstacles, and delivering quick, safe service at fair prices. Compared to many moving operations, NorthStar offers greater reliability, more careful crews, and much better results in both local and long-distance jobs. Customers said they’d continue to choose NorthStar, while advising others to keep an eye on pricing details and final inventory. The overwhelmingly positive feedback positions this company as a top choice in professional moving services.
Get a Quote (213) 622-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 1836576

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles 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 $1,223 – $5,331 $1,339 – $3,471 $1,491 – $2,946
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,900 – $7,685 $2,354 – $4,957 $1,535 – $3,305
4+ bedrooms $7,336 – $11,903 $3,178 – $6,479 $1,900 – $4,179
*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,668-mile move from Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Los Angeles to Washington DC will cost between $1,223 and $5,331. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Los Angeles to Los Angeles will range from $3,900 to $7,685, and a large move from Los Angeles to Washington DC will cost from $7,336 to $11,903.

Cost of moving containers from Los Angeles to Washington DC

If you’re moving from Los Angeles to Washington DC, expect to pay between $1,339 and $3,471 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,354 up to $4,957. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,178 and $6,479. 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC

Renting a moving truck from Los Angeles 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 $1,491 and $2,946. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,535 and $3,305. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,900 up to $4,179 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Los Angeles to Washington DC

The cost of Los Angeles movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,721, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $11,140.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Los Angeles, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,491–$3,625) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Washington DC

Many movers find Washington DC easier on the wallet than Los Angeles – roughly 32% less for singles and 13% less for families.

Monthly basics average $3,963 for one person in Washington DC versus $5,833 in Los Angeles. For a family of four, it’s $11,093 compared with $12,720.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Los Angeles Washington DC
Average 1 BR rent $2,603 $2,568
Average 3 BR rent $4,443 $5,417
Average home value $2,368,088 $594,337
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $101,722
Cost of living (single) $5,833 $3,963
Cost of living (family of four) $12,720 $11,093
Unemployment rate 10.6% 7.0%
Sales tax 9.5% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 5.75%
  • If you’re heading to Washington DC from Los Angeles, you’ll find that rent is roughly 19% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 75% less in Washington DC than in Los Angeles.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 36% higher in Washington DC than in Los Angeles, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Washington DC. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 32% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • Choosing to move to Washington DC can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 13% less than in Los Angeles.
  • Washington DC enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 34% lower compared to Los Angeles, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes drop 37% in Washington DC compared to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles and Washington DC:

Living Expense Los Angeles Washington DC
Basic utilities $192.54 $191.62
Cell phone plan $62.50 $65.80
Dozen eggs $7.02 $4.67
Loaf of bread $4.58 $4.43
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $120.00
Gym membership $47.76 $103.76
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.
  • Eggs cost more in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.
  • Bread is more expensive in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.

How life is different in Los Angeles vs. Washington DC

Los Angeles Washington DC
Population 3,820,914 672,079
Transportation score 8 9
Walkability score 69 77
Bike friendliness score 59 70
Crime index 53.81 60.37
Safety index 46.19 39.63
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Washington DC’s population is about 82% less than Los Angeles.
  • Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Los Angeles’s score of 8.
  • Washington DC is more walkable than Los Angeles with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Los Angeles’s 69 out of 100.
  • With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than Los Angeles, which has a score of 59 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 Los Angeles with a score of 60.37 compared to Los Angeles’s 53.81. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81%.
  • Washington DC is considered to be less safe than Los Angeles with a score of 39.63 vs Los Angeles’s 46.19.
  • Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Los Angeles it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC?

The best time to move from Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Washington DC?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Washington DC take?

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, covers 2,668 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days. Need to move faster? Some Los Angeles movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Washington DC.

Which movers in Los Angeles give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers here honor AAA discounts. 2 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.

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

Who can move pianos or antiques in Los Angeles?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 82 movers in Los Angeles advertise piano moving expertise. 71 movers in Los Angeles 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.

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