Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to Columbustoggle

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Washington DC to Columbus can be as low as $1,324 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 8,070.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $601 to $1,567. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Columbus

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

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

Washington DC Columbus
Average rent cost $2,400 $1,100
Average home value $594,337 $157,861
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $50,542
Cost of living (single person) $3,963 $2,041
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,093 $3,834
Unemployment rate 7.0% 5.3%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.0%
State income tax 5.75% 5.49%
  • Rent prices in Columbus are 54% lower than in Washington DC, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Columbus.
    Home prices in Columbus are 73.4% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Income in Columbus is 50.3% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbus include Aflac, TSYS, and Synovus.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 48.5% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 65.4% lower than in Washington DC.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbus is 24.29% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Columbus, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Columbus are 50.00% higher than in Washington DC.
  • One perk of moving to Columbus is paying less in state income taxes, which are 4.52% lower than in Washington DC.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,545.04 in Columbus 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. Columbus

Columbus Washington DC
Population 206,922 705,749
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 2 9
Walkability score 25 77
Bike friendliness score 31 70
Crime Index 72.18 60.37
Safety Index 27.82 39.63
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbus's population is about 71% less than Washington DC.
  • Columbus's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
  • Columbus is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 25 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
  • Columbus has a bike-friendliness score 31 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.
  • Columbus's crime rate is higher than Washington DC with a score of 72.18 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 72.18% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
  • Columbus is considered to be less safe than Washington DC with a score of 27.82 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
  • Air quality in Columbus is good, and in Washington DC it's good.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC vs. Columbus move

  • Weather: Columbus has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.
  • 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: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Georgia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Georgia doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™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. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbus. 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 for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Columbus

Ready to relocate to "Lowell of the South["? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbus.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • MidTown
  • Uptown
  • Downtown Columbus
  • Overlook
  • Lakebottom

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North Columbus
  • Brookstone
  • Green Island Hills
  • MidTown
  • Ivy Park

Things to do in Columbus

After getting comfortable in your new Georgia home, itโ€™s time to see what Columbus is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ€” thereโ€™s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbus include museums and art centers like the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, National Civil War Naval Museum, Columbus Museum, Coca-Cola Space Science Center, and The Lunch Box Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Flat Rock Park โ€” and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbus Lions (NAL), Columbus River Dragons (FPHL), Columbus Chatt-a-Hoots (SBL), or Columbus Rapids (NISL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Columbus?

The best time to move from Washington DC to Columbus 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 Columbus?

Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Columbus 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 Washington DC to Columbus take?

The 745-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Columbus, GA, takes one to six days. Some Washington DC movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbus.

Helpful moving resources