Washington DC, MD to Boston, MA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Boston typically costs $2,000–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 436 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Washington DC to Boston
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Boston, MA typically costs $2,000–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 436-mile move from Washington DC to Boston, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,126 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $1,741 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,717 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 05, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 19, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 08, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 31, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 05, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Washington DC to Boston
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Washington DC to Boston might be as low as $1,300, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,500.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Washington DC.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,100 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Boston, MA to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Boston movers by type
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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Boston
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Washington DC to Boston, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best MD→MA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 51 Maryland movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Boston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Boston runs about 22% higher for singles and 2% higher for families than Washington DC.
Singles spend around $4,820 in Boston versus $3,963 in Washington DC; families pay $11,304 compared with $11,093.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Washington DC | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $3,361 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $5,973 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $739,121 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $89,212 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $4,820 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $11,304 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 6.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 9.0% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 42% higher in Boston than in Washington DC, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 24% higher in Boston than in Washington DC.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 12% lower in Boston than in Washington DC.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Boston, as the cost of living for a single person in Boston is 22% greater than in Washington DC. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Boston and Washington DC, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won't notice a significant change in expenses.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 11% lower than Washington DC, Boston boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are effectively the same in Boston and Washington DC (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
- Income taxes are 57% higher in Massachusetts than in Maryland. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Washington DC and Boston, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $57.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $4.07 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $135.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $77.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Boston, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Boston.
- Eggs are less expensive in Washington DC than in Boston.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Boston.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Washington DC than in Boston.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Boston.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Boston
| Washington DC | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 675,647 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 98 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 86 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 39.88 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 60.12 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Boston's population is within about 5% of Washington DC, so they’re very similar in size.
- Boston's public transportation score is within about 5% of Washington DC, making them very similar.
- Boston is more walkable than Washington DC with a score of 98 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- With a score of 86 out of 100, Boston is more bike-friendly than Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Boston's crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 39.88 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Boston is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 60.12 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
- Air quality in Boston is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Boston move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Moving companies in Massachusetts are required to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities – Transportation Oversight Division to provide local and intrastate moving services in Massachusetts movers must carry adequate cargo insurance and publicly file their tariffs required to list the services they provide and the cost for each. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Massachusetts moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Massachusetts, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Boston without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. In Alabama and Massachusetts, Released Value Protection is a no-cost option provided by movers but offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. If you seek full value coverage for your items, consider consulting with your moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Boston
Ready to relocate to Athens of America? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Boston.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Allston-Brighton
- Back Bay-Beacon Hill
- East Boston
- Jamaica Plain
- South Boston
Best neighborhoods for families
- Charlestown
- East Boston
- Hyde Park
- Roslindale
- West Roxbury
Things to do in Boston
Now that you've made the move to Massachusetts, it's the perfect time to explore Boston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Boston include museums and art centers like the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library, and Museum of Science.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum, and Charles River Esplanade, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Boston Red Sox (MLB)Boston Bruins (NHL)Boston Celtics (NBA)New England Patriots (NFL)New England Revolution (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Boston?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Washington DC to Boston. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Boston?
With many people choosing to move from Washington DC to Boston in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Boston take?
Covering 436 miles, the move from Washington DC, MD to Boston, MA typically takes one to four days. Some Washington DC movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Boston can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Washington DC offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 7 movers provide military discounts. 14 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Washington DC can handle specialty items for my move to Boston?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Washington DC, 59 movers can handle pianos. 44 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MD, there are 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
