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($1,192) Movers from Washington DC, MD to Los Angeles, CA

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Estimated cost & time: For a 2,668 mile move from Washington DC to Los Angeles, costs typically range from $1,510 to $7,262. 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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ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I’m Ryan.
Let’s get moving.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.

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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Los Angeles

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Washington DC to Los Angeles, 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 73 interstate moving companies located in Washington DC, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Los Angeles 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 Washington DC to Los Angeles

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,668-mile move from Washington DC to Los Angeles using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. 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 $2,393 – $5,498
  • Moving Container $1,769 – $3,330
  • Rental Truck $1,409 – $2,730
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,614 – $7,262
  • Moving Container $2,292 – $4,826
  • Rental Truck $1,510 – $3,315
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,865 – $11,136
  • Moving Container $3,255 – $6,245
  • Rental Truck $1,986 – $4,108
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.
Mayzlin Relocation
Ilchester, MD Whittier, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 29, 2025
BLVD Moving
Jessup, MD Irvine, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Dec 13, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Marlboro Village, MD Orange, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 08, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
New Market, MD South Whittier, CA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 17, 2025
PODS
Mount Rainier, MD Altadena, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 08, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Burtonsville, MD Tustin, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 03, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
Crofton, MD La Verne, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Nov 02, 2025
American Van Lines
Odenton, MD Inglewood, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Oct 31, 2025
United Van Lines
Kemp Mill, MD La Palma, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Oct 29, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Linthicum, MD Del Aire, CA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 12, 2025

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

The best local movers for Washington DC to Los Angeles moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Washington DC that also handles long-distance moves to Los Angeles. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 82 local movers in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Los Angeles.

  1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. My Pro Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storage’s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry. On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.
Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

Company Info

State license #: 70719

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 70719

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never sounded easier—Bookstore Movers, LLC receives rave feedback from 96% of customers out of 230 reviews. Customers consistently praise efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, and clear communication. Most mention speedy, smooth moves and crews who protect property and approach each job with courtesy. Scheduling is simple and estimates align closely with costs, setting this company apart from less reliable movers. Only a few customers report problems: a small portion cite damaged items, rushed jobs, or unexpected extra charges. One neutral review points to delays, missing crew members, and difficult management contact during the move. Compared to most moving companies, Bookstore Movers earns superior marks for consistent reliability, making them a top choice for stress-free relocations.
Get a Quote (202) 570-4697

Company Info

State license #: 2005212

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2005212

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews spotlight My Pro Movers’ reputation for speed, careful handling, and professionalism. Out of 353 pieces of customer input, 93% reflect positive experiences, with users frequently highlighting efficient crews, polite staff, and responsive helpers who protect belongings and make moving smoother than expected. Many describe high-quality service at a fair price, often outpacing competitors on speed, communication, and attention to detail. Negative input makes up just over 5% and flags issues with inaccurate estimates, higher-than-expected charges, and damaged items. Customers most often complained about large discrepancies between quoted and final costs, with some also noting occasional mishandling of property. Neutral feedback centers on incomplete follow-up and delays but acknowledges hard-working movers. The overall trend shows My Pro Movers exceeds the industry norm on efficiency and care, though clients should confirm pricing details to avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (703) 310-7333

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3116640

Alternate Names: MyProMovers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input points to Artisan Movers as a standout in the moving industry, with 259 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% offering positive input. Most feedback highlights a team respected for professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, effective communication, and quick moving processes—qualities consistently recognized in top-rated movers. Customers frequently note that their belongings arrive undamaged and praise the crew’s friendly, accommodating manner. On the downside, a small percentage report concerns like item damage, surprise charges, or slow responses from management. When compared with other companies, Artisan Movers receives higher marks for reliability, staff courtesy, and transparent communication, though there are isolated reports of property damage or issues with the billing process. These trends show a company excelling in service standards, with a few exceptions relating to damage and administrative follow-through.
Get a Quote (240) 570-8593

Company Info

State license #: 2957382

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2957382

Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. stands out for efficient, professional service and careful attention to belongings. In an analysis of 372 customer reviews, 91% of the input praised the company’s fast moving teams, careful handling of items, professionalism, prompt communication, and swift processes. Most feedback highlights that movers arrive on time, work efficiently, and treat possessions with respect, which is often hard to find among competitors. Many also note transparent pricing and flexibility when scheduling or dealing with last-minute changes. While positive feedback dominates, some customers report problems with damages to items, unexpected cost increases, or delays in delivery, especially for long-distance moves. Compared to other movers, Zip consistently delivers a reliable, courteous experience but could improve by minimizing damages and clarifying pricing for every customer.
Get a Quote (855) 947-6543

Company Info

State license #: 2586700

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3306591

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Washington DC to Los Angeles?

The average hourly rate for movers in Maryland is $125. 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 $1,192 – $4,936 $1,239 – $3,313 $1,479 – $2,648
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,614 – $7,262 $2,292 – $4,826 $1,510 – $3,315
4+ bedrooms $6,865 – $11,136 $3,255 – $6,245 $1,986 – $4,108
*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,668-mile move from Washington DC to Los Angeles are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 22, 2026. 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 Washington DC to Los Angeles

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Washington DC to Los Angeles will cost between $1,192 and $4,936. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Washington DC to Washington DC will range from $3,614 to $7,262, and a large move from Washington DC to Los Angeles will cost from $6,865 to $11,136.

Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Los Angeles

If you’re moving from Washington DC to Los Angeles, expect to pay between $1,239 and $3,313 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,292 up to $4,826. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,255 and $6,245. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Maryland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Los Angeles

Renting a moving truck from Washington DC to Los Angeles 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 $1,479 and $2,648. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,510 and $3,315. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,986 up to $4,108 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

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

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,470, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,422.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,479–$3,638) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Los Angeles

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Los Angeles runs about 47% higher for singles and 15% higher for families than Washington DC.

Singles spend around $5,833 in Washington DC versus $3,963 in Washington DC; families pay $12,720 compared with $11,093.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Washington DC Los Angeles
Average 1 BR rent $2,568 $2,603
Average 3 BR rent $5,417 $4,443
Average home value $594,337 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $74,993
Cost of living (single) $3,963 $5,833
Cost of living (family of four) $11,093 $12,720
Unemployment rate 7.0% 10.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.5%
State income tax 5.75% 13.3%
  • Rent is estimated to be 23% higher in Los Angeles compared to Washington DC; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 298% greater in Los Angeles than in Washington DC.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 26% lower in Los Angeles compared to Washington DC.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Los Angeles, since the cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 47% higher than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Los Angeles, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 15% greater than in Washington DC.
  • In Los Angeles, the unemployment rate is approximately 51% higher than in Washington DC, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 58% in Los Angeles over Washington DC, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 131% higher in California than in Maryland, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Washington DC and Los Angeles:

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

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Los Angeles

Washington DC Los Angeles
Population 672,079 3,820,914
Transportation score 9 8
Walkability score 77 69
Bike friendliness score 70 59
Crime index 60.37 53.81
Safety index 39.63 46.19
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Los Angeles’s population is about 469% greater than Washington DC.
  • Los Angeles’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC’s score of 9.
  • Los Angeles is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Washington DC’s 77 out of 100.
  • Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score of 59 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
  • Los Angeles’s crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 53.81 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
  • Los Angeles is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 46.19 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
  • Air quality in Los Angeles is Moderate, and in Washington DC it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Los Angeles 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California 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 Los Angeles. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to City of Angels, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Los Angeles.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

Things to do in Los Angeles

Once you’re settled into your new home in California, it’s time to get out and discover what Los Angeles has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Los Angeles, such as the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, and Battleship USS Iowa Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo 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 Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)Los Angeles FC (MLS)Los Angeles Kings (NHL)Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)Los Angeles Rams (NFL)Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Washington DC to Los Angeles is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Washington DC.

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

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

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

Which movers in Washington DC give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 7 movers give special rates to military members. 13 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 Washington DC?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 58 movers in Washington DC advertise piano moving expertise. 43 movers in Washington DC provide antique moving services. State totals show 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,299 and 1,464.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

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