($1,150) Movers From Washington DC, MD to Columbus, OH

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Columbus

Moving from Washington DC to Columbus 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 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:

• Rent prices in Columbus are 40% lower than in Washington DC, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Columbus.
  Home prices in Columbus are 59.8% lower than in Washington DC.
• Income in Columbus is 36.0% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbus include Ohio State University, The State of Ohio, and JPMorgan Chase.
• The cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 29.8% 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 34.7% lower than in Washington DC.
• The unemployment rate in Columbus is 18.57% lower than in Washington DC.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Columbus, since the city’s sales taxes in Columbus are 25.00% higher than in Washington DC.
• One perk of moving to Columbus is paying less in state income taxes, which are 39.13% lower than in Washington DC.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,107.49 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's population is about 28% greater than Washington DC.
• Columbus's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
• Columbus is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
• Columbus has a bike-friendliness score 48 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 lower than Washington DC with a score of 49.65 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
• Columbus is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 50.35 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 doesn't get the snowfall that more northern Ohio gets but it does have some of the severe weather that's common in the midwest such as strong lightning storms and hail. In general, you can expect all 4 seasons in Columbus so take that into account when choosing the time of the year that you 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: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a Ohio moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving permits: Ohio 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 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 cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 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: 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 "Arch City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbus.

Helpful moving resources