How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to VA move
Using rate data from 106 Massachusetts movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to Virginia?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Massachusetts
to Virginia with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,041 – $3,289 |
$679 – $1,637 |
$422 – $795 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,103 – $5,205 |
$1,164 – $2,378 |
$446 – $944 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,579 – $7,608 |
$1,553 – $2,950 |
$568 – $1,186 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 589-mile move from MA to
VA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Massachusetts to Virginia
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to Virginia,
you can expect to spend between $1,041
and $3,289.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,103 to
$5,205 on the same route
(MA to VA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Massachusetts to Virginia typically runs between
$3,579 and
$7,608.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to Virginia
Moving from Massachusetts to Virginia? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $679 and
$1,637. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,164 to
$2,378. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,553 up to
$2,950. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to Virginia
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$422 and
$795.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$446 and
$944.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $568 and
$1,186.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to VA
There are many factors that influence Massachusetts moving costs. The cost to move from Massachusetts to Virginia will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Massachusetts fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from MA to VA
Moving between Massachusetts and Virginia involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. Virginia
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Massachusetts and Virginia. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Massachusetts |
Virginia |
| Average rent |
$1,588 |
$1,440 |
| Average home cost |
$623,131 |
$392,682 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$96,505 |
$87,249 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.9% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.25% |
5.73% |
| State income tax |
9.0% |
5.75% |
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Rent in Virginia is about 9% cheaper than in Massachusetts, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Virginia are roughly 37% less than in Massachusetts, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Virginia are about 10% lower than in Massachusetts.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Massachusetts and Virginia, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Virginia has a lower unemployment rate than Massachusetts by about 26%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 8% lower in Virginia compared to Massachusetts, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in Virginia are 36% lower than in Massachusetts. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Virginia vs. Massachusetts
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Virginia differs from Massachusetts in these areas.
|
Virginia |
Massachusetts |
| Population |
8,715,698 |
7,001,399 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-48 |
Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
49″ |
| Annual snow |
14″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
19.3 |
13.92 |
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If you’re relocating from Massachusetts to Virginia, you’ll notice that Virginia has about 24% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Massachusetts and Virginia voted Democratic.
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Summer highs in Virginia average 87°F, almost the same as 82°F in Massachusetts.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in Virginia average 25°F, compared to 16°F in Massachusetts.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
In Virginia, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 49 inches you’ve been used to in Massachusetts.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In Virginia, you’ll see just 14 inches of snow each year, compared to Massachusetts, which gets 47 inches annually.
Moving to Virginia means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Virginia reports a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 19.3 versus 13.92.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. Virginia
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Virginia stacks up against Massachusetts:
| Pros of living in Massachusetts |
Pros of living in Virginia |
| Natural beauty |
Strong economy |
| Excellent education system |
Beautiful scenery |
| Delicious seafood |
Abundance of outdoor activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Enjoyable four season weather |
| Home to boston |
Strong military presence |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. Virginia
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Massachusetts to Virginia, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Massachusetts |
Cons of living in Virginia |
| Bad traffic |
High cost of living |
| Poor driving conditions |
Unpredictable weather |
| Harsh winter weather |
Bad traffic congestion |
| High cost of living |
Lack of public transportation |
| Peculiar liquor laws |
Air noise pollution |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to Virginia move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
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Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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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 you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Virginia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Virginia right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Virginia
Get ready to discover Virginia. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Virginia
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Historic Jamestowne
- Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
- Military Aviation Museum
Parks in Virginia
- Mill Mountain Star & Park
- Morven Park
- The Mariners’ Museum & Park
- Great Falls Park
- Leesylvania State Park
Sports teams in Virginia
- Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
- Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
- Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
- Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)
Universities in Virginia
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- College of William & Mary
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Massachusetts to Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to Virginia?
More and more folks are relocating from Massachusetts to Virginia to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as strong economy and beautiful scenery.
Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or Virginia?
Living in Virginia usually costs less than in Massachusetts.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Virginia,
with average rent about 9% less and home prices 37% lower than in Massachusetts.
Taxes are also
lower in Virginia, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Virginia?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Virginia, aim for an income of around $72,647 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $19,977 if you’re flying solo, or $4,783 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Neabsco and Virginia Beach usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Massachusetts?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Massachusetts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 3 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 6 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
Popular Massachusetts routes
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When planning a move from Massachusetts to Virginia, professional movers typically run between
$2,103 and $5,205, a moving container averages about
$1,771, and a rental truck is around
$695.
Fact Checked by:
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