How we chose the best moving companies for your DE to WA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 10 Delaware movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Delaware to Washington?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Delaware
to Washington, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,140 – $5,257 |
$1,428 – $3,525 |
$1,516 – $2,738 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,544 – $7,329 |
$2,292 – $5,089 |
$1,658 – $3,293 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,468 – $10,916 |
$3,495 – $7,217 |
$2,075 – $4,085 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 2,781-mile relocation from DE to
WA, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Delaware to Washington
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Delaware to Washington, you’ll likely pay between
$1,140
and $5,257.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$3,544 and $7,329
for the same journey (DE to WA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,468
to $10,916.
Cost of moving containers from Delaware to Washington
When you’re heading from Delaware to Washington, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $1,428 and
$3,525. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $2,292 and
$5,089. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,495
to $7,217. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Delaware easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Delaware to Washington
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$1,516
to $2,738.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,658
to $3,293, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Delaware to Washington costs around
$2,075 to
$4,085.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from DE to WA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Delaware to Washington. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Delaware when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from DE to WA
If you’re moving to Washington from Delaware, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Delaware vs. Washington
Understanding how costs compare between Delaware and Washington can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Delaware |
Washington |
| Average rent |
$1,286 |
$1,900 |
| Average home cost |
$388,654 |
$588,856 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$79,325 |
$90,325 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
115 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
4.8% |
| Average sales tax |
0.0% |
6.5% |
| State income tax |
6.6% |
0.0% |
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Rent is about 48% higher in Washington than in Delaware. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Washington are typically about 52% higher than in Delaware.
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You’re likely to earn about 14% more in Washington than in Delaware. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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The cost of living is 15% higher in Washington than in Delaware. If you’re making the move to Washington with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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The unemployment rate in Washington is about 60% higher than in Delaware. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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Washington has a sales tax, while Delaware does not. Expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Washington has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Delaware. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Washington vs. Delaware
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Washington and Delaware line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Washington |
Delaware |
| Population |
7,812,880 |
1,031,890 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic |
Democratic 57-43 |
| Summer high |
79ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
31ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
38″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
18″ |
13″ |
| Crime index |
37.32 |
23.48 |
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The population of Washington is approximately 657% greater than the population of Delaware.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Delaware and Washington leaned Democratic.
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Washington sees average summer highs of 79°F, compared to 87°F in Delaware.
Cooler summers mean less extreme heat, lower energy bills, and easier outdoor living.
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Winter lows in Washington average 31°F, milder than 25°F in Delaware.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
-
In Washington, you’ll get about 38 inches of rain each year — less than the 45 inches you’re used to in Delaware.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
-
In Washington, it snows about 18 inches annually while Delaware gets 13 inches.
With snowfall being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
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Washington has a higher crime rate than Delaware, with a crime index of 37.32 compared to 23.48.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Delaware vs. Washington
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Washington and Delaware:
| Pros of living in Delaware |
Pros of living in Washington |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| High-quality healthcare |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
High quality of life |
| Beautiful beaches |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Rich culture |
Delicious seafood |
Comparing the cons of living in Delaware vs. Washington
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Delaware for Washington:
| Cons of living in Delaware |
Cons of living in Washington |
| Hurricanes |
Constant rain |
| High crime rate |
Bad traffic |
| Overcrowding |
High cost of living |
| High cost of living |
High crime rate |
| Limited public transportation |
Natural disasters |
Other things to consider for your Delaware to Washington move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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State licensing:
Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a Washington moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Washington, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Washington right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Washington
While you’re in Washington, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Washington
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- The Museum of Flight
- LeMay – America’s Car Museum
- Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum
- USS Turner Joy Museum Ship
Parks in Washington
- Mount Rainier National Park
- Olympic National Park
- North Cascades National Park
- Deception Pass State Park
- Lake Wenatchee State Park
Sports teams in Washington
- OL Reign Soccer (NWSL)
- Seattle Kraken (NHL)
- Seattle Mariners (MLB)
- Seattle Seahawks (NFL)
- Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
Universities in Washington
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
- The Evergreen State College
- Seattle University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Delaware to Washington?
Do movers transport your car from Delaware to Washington?
What are the benefits of moving from Delaware to Washington?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Delaware to Washington to enjoy all the great benefits Washington provides, such as beautiful landscapes and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Delaware or Washington?
Living in Delaware usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is much more affordable in Delaware,
with average rent about 32% less and home prices 34% lower than in Washington.
However, taxes are
lower in Washington, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Delaware residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Washington?
Thinking of moving to Washington on your own? You’ll want to earn around $70,662 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,476 per month, or around $7,777 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Seattle and Spokane tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Delaware?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 2 companies.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 1 moving companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Delaware to Washington, you’ll likely pay between $3,544–$7,329 with professional movers, roughly
$3,690 for a moving container, and about
$2,475
for a rental truck.
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