Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($816) Cost to Move From Washington DC, MD to Chapel Hill, NC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 270 mile move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill, costs typically range from $299 to $4,204. Plan for the travel time to be around one–four days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Washington DC to Chapel Hill

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Washington DC to Chapel Hill

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill, 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 Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 270-mile move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. 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 $916 – $3,640
  • Moving Container $830 – $1,462
  • Rental Truck $279 – $513
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,555 – $4,204
  • Moving Container $1,071 – $2,087
  • Rental Truck $299 – $583
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,099 – $5,480
  • Moving Container $1,454 – $2,662
  • Rental Truck $377 – $744
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.
PODS
Lake Shore, MD Raleigh, NC
Studio apartment
Oct 13, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Bladensburg, MD Chapel Hill, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 05, 2025
BLVD Moving
Chevy Chase Section Five, MD Durham, NC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Eldersburg, MD Green Level, NC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Aspen Hill, MD Staley, NC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 13, 2025
North American Van Lines
Chillum, MD Gibsonville, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Hyattsville, MD Alamance, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 14, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Accokeek, MD Pittsboro, NC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
American Van Lines
Highland Beach, MD Burlington, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Chevy Chase Section Three, MD Yanceyville, NC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chapel Hill, NC to Washington DC, MD guide.

The best local movers for Washington DC to Chapel Hill moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Washington DC that also handles long-distance moves to Chapel Hill. 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 Chapel Hill.

  1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.8% of all reviews were positive
14.1% 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
96.1% of all reviews were positive
3.5% 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
93.8% of all reviews were positive
5.4% 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
95.2% of all reviews were positive
3.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Glowing feedback cements Gentle Giant Moving Company as a leader in their field. Out of 311 reviews, 95% of customers offer high praise, citing efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams as standout qualities. Many describe the moving process as quick, with thorough communication from booking to delivery, creating a smooth and stress-free experience. Hundreds of customers report their belongings arrived safely—even during challenging or long-distance moves. On the downside, a handful of users express dissatisfaction with final costs exceeding estimates, a few unmet expectations around communication, and occasional scheduling or arrival delays. Compared to many moving companies, reports of damaged goods or loss are remarkably rare. For those weighing reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind, Gentle Giant is a top-tier choice, though budget-focused clients may encounter higher-than-expected pricing.
Get a Quote (202) 758-0213

Company Info

State license #: 373544

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.1% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about BoxStar Movers’ fast and efficient crews, careful handling of belongings, and professional, polite movers. Out of 669 reviews analyzed, over 99% reflected positive experiences. Movers consistently show up on time, communicate well, and treat customers’ items with respect. Many mention stress-free moves and satisfaction even in tough conditions. Compared to other moving companies, BoxStar delivers reliability, clear pricing, and standout courtesy that keeps clients coming back. Negative feedback is rare but includes reports of damage during packing, misplaced items, or less-experienced movers, and a handful of customers experienced issues with lost belongings or furniture damage. Neutral reviews point to isolated lapses in packing care or communication but still praised basic professionalism. Those seeking an organized, friendly, and speedy move will find BoxStar Movers among the top-rated choices in the region, while those with valuable or delicate items may want to discuss special handling in advance to ensure peace of mind.
Get a Quote (202) 875-7649

Company Info

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3455884

Alternate Names: BoxStar Moving Services , BoxStar Moving Services, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill?

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 $816 – $2,926 $578 – $1,394 $276 – $539
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,555 – $4,204 $1,071 – $2,087 $299 – $583
4+ bedrooms $2,099 – $5,480 $1,454 – $2,662 $377 – $744
*Approximate cost ranges for a 270-mile move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. 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 Chapel Hill

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Washington DC to Chapel Hill will cost between $816 and $2,926. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Washington DC to Washington DC will range from $1,555 to $4,204, and a large move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill will cost from $2,099 to $5,480.

Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Chapel Hill

If you’re moving from Washington DC to Chapel Hill, expect to pay between $578 and $1,394 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,071 up to $2,087. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,454 and $2,662. 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 Chapel Hill

Renting a moving truck from Washington DC to Chapel Hill 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 $276 and $539. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $299 and $583. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $377 up to $744 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Washington DC to Chapel Hill

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,163, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $4,968.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($276–$681) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Chapel Hill

Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Washington DC – roughly 43% less for singles and 57% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $11,093.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Washington DC Chapel Hill
Average 1 BR rent $2,568 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $5,417 $3,433
Average home value $594,337 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $65,621
Cost of living (single) $3,963 $2,248
Cost of living (family of four) $11,093 $4,790
Unemployment rate 7.0% 3.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.5%
State income tax 5.75% 4.5%
  • If you’re heading to Chapel Hill from Washington DC, you’ll find that rent is roughly 19% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Given that home prices are within a 5% margin between Chapel Hill and Washington DC, sticking to your current mortgage strategy is sensible unless you’re planning for a bigger home.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 35% lower in Chapel Hill compared to Washington DC.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chapel Hill. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 43% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Choosing to move to Chapel Hill can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 57% less than in Washington DC.
  • Chapel Hill enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 54% lower compared to Washington DC, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 25% in Chapel Hill over Washington DC, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 22% less in North Carolina than in Maryland. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

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

Living Expense Washington DC Chapel Hill
Basic utilities $191.62 $156.99
Cell phone plan $65.80 $55.25
Dozen eggs $4.67 $4.53
Loaf of bread $4.43 $4.04
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $80.00
Gym membership $103.76 $42.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.
  • Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.
  • Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Chapel Hill.

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Chapel Hill

Washington DC Chapel Hill
Population 672,079 63,764
Transportation score 9 6
Walkability score 77 34
Bike friendliness score 70 50
Crime index 60.37 26.42
Safety index 39.63 73.58
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Chapel Hill’s population is about 91% less than Washington DC.
  • Chapel Hill’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC’s score of 9.
  • Chapel Hill is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Washington DC’s 77 out of 100.
  • Chapel Hill has a bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
  • Chapel Hill’s crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 26.42 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
  • Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 73.58 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
  • Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Washington DC it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Chapel Hill 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: North Carolina 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 Chapel Hill. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Southern Part of Heaven, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meadowmont
  • The Oaks
  • Winmore
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Southern Village
  • Briar Chapel
  • Dunhill
  • Governor’s Club
  • Westfall
  • Claremont/Claremont South

Things to do in Chapel Hill

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chapel Hill, such as the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, and Kidzu Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle 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 UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill?

The best time to move from Washington DC to Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill?

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

Moving from Washington DC, MD to Chapel Hill, covers 270 miles and usually takes one to four 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 Chapel Hill.

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 2,303 and 1,466.

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

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle