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($1,274) Cost to Move From San Jose, CA to Washington DC, MD

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 2,844 miles from San Jose to Washington DC typically costs between $1,603 and $7,557. The trip is expected to last from seven–21 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from San Jose 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 Jose to Washington DC

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from San Jose to Washington DC 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.

In San Jose, there are 64 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Washington DC.

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 Jose to Washington DC

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,844-mile move from San Jose to Washington DC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,373 – $6,029
  • Moving Container $1,787 – $3,444
  • Rental Truck $1,570 – $2,957
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,036 – $7,557
  • Moving Container $2,415 – $5,254
  • Rental Truck $1,603 – $3,592
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,155 – $12,676
  • Moving Container $3,266 – $6,892
  • Rental Truck $1,965 – $4,195
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.
Colonial Van Lines
Scotts Valley, CA Brentwood, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 23, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Woodside, CA Camp Springs, MD
Studio apartment
Nov 19, 2025
BLVD Moving
Santa Cruz, CA North Bethesda, MD
2 Bedrooms
Nov 18, 2025
Safeway Moving
Livermore, CA Naval Academy, MD
2 Bedrooms
Nov 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Diablo Grande, CA Forestville, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 08, 2025
PODS
Fremont, CA Colmar Manor, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
North American Van Lines
Menlo Park, CA Jessup, MD
Studio apartment
Sep 18, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Sunnyvale, CA Rosedale, MD
4 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
United Van Lines
North Fair Oaks, CA Damascus, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 05, 2025
American Van Lines
Saratoga, CA Glen Burnie, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your San Jose to Washington DC move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in San Jose that offers long-distance services to Washington DC can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 79 top local movers in San Jose 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 San Jose to Washington DC.

  1. Lunardi Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Pure Moving Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. Fairprice Movers: 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.7% of all reviews were positive
3.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy: Out of 544 customer feedback entries, 94.7% praised Lunardi Moving for efficiency, care with belongings, professionalism, and helpful staff. Customers repeatedly highlighted attentive and polite crews, swift moving, and careful handling of items. Some reviewers described consistent experiences across multiple moves, including delicate items and complex jobs. A small number of clients, about 3.5%, cited higher-than-expected bills, unexpected fees, or occasional item damage. Neutral feedback often referenced additional charges or less-than-perfect estimates, despite generally satisfactory service. Compared to other moving companies, Lunardi stands out with strong service consistency and attentive staff, though clarity in quoting could be improved to match industry leaders on price transparency.
Get a Quote (408) 849-9630

Company Info

State license #: 0190625

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2762936

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.5% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word of mouth meets reliability at All Reasons Moving & Storage. Out of 306 customer inputs, 90.5% were favorable, underscoring exceptional service. Clients repeatedly cite the team’s professionalism, careful handling, quick and efficient moves, positive staff attitudes, and reliable communication as stand-out features. Customers appreciate on-time arrivals, accuracy in cost estimates, and meticulous treatment of their property—qualities that set the company above most competitors. Negative feedback accounts for 8.2% of responses, mainly describing damaged items, surprise fees, or rare poor staff interactions. Most concerns focus on breakage during moves or storage and disputes about extra charges. Neutral comments, at 1.3%, describe higher-than-expected costs or minor miscommunication but rarely mention major setbacks. All Reasons earns strong trust for its emphasis on permanent, well-trained crews rather than temporary day labor—a rare trait. Compared to typical moving companies, customer input shows they provide a notably stress-free moving experience.
Get a Quote (408) 240-0244

Company Info

State license #: 0189789

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 70719

Alternate Names: All Reasons Moving and Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
15.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves, careful teams, and upbeat attitudes define the feedback for Vector Moving and Storage, based on 71 customer submissions. A strong 84.5% of clients praised their efficient work, respectfulness, and how gently possessions were handled. Customers frequently mentioned quick process times, professional approach, and feeling highly confident in their choice, noting the staff’s courtesy and attention to property. Despite many stress-free experiences, 15.5% of feedback flagged recurring problems: broken items during transit, delays, larger-than-promised bills, and unresolved complaints were cited as major setbacks. While most moving companies struggle to match Vector’s ratio of glowing to problematic feedback, issues like damage, surprise add-ons, or timing should be weighed against their reputation for speed and professionalism.
Get a Quote (844) 468-6683

Company Info

State license #: 0191802

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3152229

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.5% of all reviews were positive
0.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Pure Moving Company earns rave feedback for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling. Out of 209 reviews, 99.5% praise staff for quick processes, respectful care of items, effective communication, and top-notch attitude. Customers highlight friendliness, reliability, and meticulous packing—often noting stress-free moves, even under challenging circumstances. Only one review stands out for its dissatisfaction, citing excessive duration, a rushed finish, higher costs, and misplaced items. Compared to many movers, Pure Moving Company sets itself apart with consistency, fast responses, transparent pricing, and genuinely attentive teams, making it a top choice for reliable, quality moving services.
Get a Quote (888) 572-4486

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Pros Movers , Pure Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.1% of all reviews were positive
7.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day choices matter, and customers say Fairprice Movers stands out for their efficiency and professionalism. In a review analysis of 748 pieces of input, 90% were positive. Most feedback highlights quick, careful work, professional and polite movers, strong communication, and rates that beat many competitors. Many customers praise how belongings arrive undamaged and the ease of booking. Transparent estimates and affordable prices are often noted. Some customers compare their experience favorably to other companies, citing fewer hidden fees and damages. Yet, negative input most often cites items damaged during moves, unexpected or unclear extra charges, and crews sometimes running late or arriving short-staffed. Damage to furniture or homes and slow claims processing are the biggest issues in these cases. Few reviewers mention rude staff or loss of items, but these complaints are less common. Neutral reviews generally mention that the three-hour minimum could add extra expense for small or simple jobs. Fairprice Movers receives more consistent praise for efficiency, care, and honest pricing than similar moving services in the region, but customers should still confirm all terms and check belongings right after the move ends.
Get a Quote (408) 213-8139

Company Info

State license #: 190880

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2192738

Services Offered

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

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

In California, moving services typically cost around $128 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 $1,274 – $5,483 $1,307 – $3,532 $1,510 – $2,840
2 – 3 bedrooms $4,036 – $7,557 $2,415 – $5,254 $1,603 – $3,592
4+ bedrooms $7,155 – $12,676 $3,266 – $6,892 $1,965 – $4,195
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 2,844-mile move from San Jose to Washington DC, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from San Jose to Washington DC

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Washington DC from San Jose, you can expect prices to land between $1,274 and $5,483. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,036 to $7,557 for the trip from San Jose to Washington DC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,155 and $12,676.

Cost of moving containers from San Jose to Washington DC

Moving containers from San Jose to Washington DC will cost you $1,307 to $3,532 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,415 to $5,254. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,266 to $6,892. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Jose to Washington DC

Renting a moving truck from San Jose 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 $1,510 and $2,840 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,603 to $3,592. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,965 to $4,195.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your San Jose to Washington DC move

The cost of San Jose movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,624 for a one-bedroom, or up to $10,942 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in San Jose.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,510 to $3,827, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from San Jose to Washington DC

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Washington DC runs about 8% higher for singles and 33% higher for families than San Jose.

Singles spend around $3,963 in San Jose versus $3,674 in San Jose; families pay $11,093 compared with $8,354.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

San Jose Washington DC
Average 1 BR rent $3,027 $2,568
Average 3 BR rent $5,240 $5,417
Average home value $1,453,657 $594,337
Average income (per capita) $83,421 $101,722
Cost of living (single) $3,674 $3,963
Cost of living (family of four) $8,354 $11,093
Unemployment rate 6.6% 7.0%
Sales tax 9.38% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 5.75%
  • When relocating from San Jose to Washington DC, expect to find rent about 22% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 59% more affordable in Washington DC compared to San Jose.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 22% higher in Washington DC compared to San Jose, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Washington DC, as living costs for a single person are 8% higher than in San Jose. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Washington DC, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 33% higher than in San Jose.
  • Washington DC shows an unemployment rate that exceeds San Jose by around 6%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes are 36% less in Washington DC relative to San Jose. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Maryland are 57% below those in California. 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 San Jose and Washington DC:

Living Expense San Jose Washington DC
Basic utilities $293.08 $191.62
Cell phone plan $48.44 $65.80
Dozen eggs $4.80 $4.67
Loaf of bread $4.93 $4.43
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20.50 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $120.00
Gym membership $123.75 $103.76
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Jose than in Washington DC.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in San Jose than in Washington DC.
  • Eggs cost more in San Jose than in Washington DC.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Jose than in Washington DC.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in San Jose than in Washington DC.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in San Jose than in Washington DC.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Jose than in Washington DC.

How life is different in San Jose vs. Washington DC

San Jose Washington DC
Population 971,233 672,079
Transportation score 7 9
Walkability score 51 77
Bike friendliness score 62 70
Crime index 47.73 60.37
Safety index 52.27 39.63
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Washington DC’s population is about 31% less than San Jose.
  • Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than San Jose’s score of 7.
  • Washington DC is more walkable than San Jose with a score of 77 out of 100 vs San Jose’s 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than San Jose, which has a score of 62 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 Jose with a score of 60.37 compared to San Jose’s 47.73. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73%.
  • Washington DC is considered to be less safe than San Jose with a score of 39.63 vs San Jose’s 52.27.
  • Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in San Jose it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Jose 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 San Jose to Washington DC?

Planning your move from San Jose to Washington DC? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in San Jose.

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

Because most people are moving from San Jose 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 San Jose to Washington DC take?

The 2,844-mile journey from San Jose, CA to Washington DC, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in San Jose 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 San Jose?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members.

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 San Jose?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In San Jose, 62 movers can manage piano relocations. 54 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,300 and 1,465 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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