($1,505) Movers From Washington DC, MD to Los Angeles, CA

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Los Angeles

Moving from Washington DC to Los Angeles means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Los Angeles, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Washington DC compares to Los Angeles so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Los Angeles are 23% higher than in Washington DC, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Washington DC.
  Home prices in Los Angeles are 298.4% higher than in Washington DC.
• Income in Los Angeles is 26.3% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Los Angeles include County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School District, and City of Los Angeles (including DWP).
• The cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 1.0% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 16.9% lower than in Washington DC.
• The unemployment rate in Los Angeles is 51.43% higher than in Washington DC.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Los Angeles, since the city’s sales taxes in Los Angeles are 58.33% higher than in Washington DC.
• State income taxes in Los Angeles are 131.30% higher than in Washington DC.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,968.96 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Los Angeles

• Los Angeles's population is about 441% greater than Washington DC.
• Los Angeles's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher 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 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100.
• 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 vs. Los Angeles move

• Weather: The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license 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: 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 Los Angeles. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Ready to relocate to "City of Angels"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Los Angeles.

Helpful moving resources