How we chose the best moving companies for your MD to VA move
After studying pricing from 51 Maryland movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Maryland to Virginia?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Maryland to Virginia.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$684 – $2,445 |
$526 – $1,322 |
$218 – $400 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,187 – $3,565 |
$919 – $1,824 |
$229 – $440 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,714 – $4,584 |
$1,204 – $2,257 |
$280 – $545 |
*Estimated costs for a 209-mile move from MD to
VA are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Maryland to Virginia
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Maryland to Virginia will cost between
$684 and
$2,445.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MD to VA will
range from $1,187 to
$3,565, and a large move from Maryland
to Virginia will cost from $1,714
to $4,584.
Cost of moving containers from Maryland to Virginia
If you’re moving from Maryland to Virginia,
expect to pay between $526
and $1,322 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$919 up to
$1,824.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,204 and
$2,257. 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 Maryland to Virginia
Renting a moving truck 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
$218 and
$400.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $229
and $440. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $280 up to
$545 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MD to VA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Maryland to Virginia. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Maryland is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from MD to VA
A relocation from Maryland to Virginia comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Maryland vs. Virginia
Comparing expenses in Maryland and Virginia shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Maryland |
Virginia |
| Average rent |
$1,598 |
$1,440 |
| Average home cost |
$418,438 |
$392,682 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$98,461 |
$87,249 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
5.73% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
5.75% |
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Expect to pay around 10% less in rent in Virginia than in Maryland, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 6% lower in Virginia than in Maryland.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Virginia are about 11% lower than in Maryland.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Virginia and Maryland, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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Unemployment rates are similar in both Maryland and Virginia, so you probably won’t notice much change in job prospects or competition once you relocate.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Maryland and Virginia have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are similar in Virginia and Maryland, so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering a level of financial predictability as you transition between states.
How life is different in Virginia vs. Maryland
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Virginia stacks up against Maryland across important lifestyle factors:
|
Virginia |
Maryland |
| Population |
8,715,698 |
6,180,253 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-48 |
Democratic 63-34.4 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
14″ |
19″ |
| Crime index |
19.3 |
20.34 |
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Virginia is about 41% more populous than Maryland.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both Maryland and Virginia supported the Democratic candidate.
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In Virginia, summer highs hover around 87°F, while Maryland sits at 87°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Virginia reaches about 25°F and Maryland gets down to 25°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
-
In Virginia, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year, while Maryland sees around 44 inches annually.
So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
-
In Virginia, you’ll get about 14 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Maryland averages around 19 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
Virginia and Maryland have similar crime rates (19.3 vs. 20.34).
Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it’s important to research at the city or neighborhood level, as well.
Comparing the pros of Maryland vs. Virginia
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Virginia versus Maryland:
| Pros of living in Maryland |
Pros of living in Virginia |
| Delicious food |
Strong economy |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Beautiful scenery |
| Diverse outdoor activities |
Abundance of outdoor activities |
| Beautiful coastline |
Enjoyable four season weather |
| Rich history |
Strong military presence |
Comparing the cons of living in Maryland vs. Virginia
Moving from Maryland to Virginia comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Maryland |
Cons of living in Virginia |
| High cost of living |
High cost of living |
| Bad traffic |
Unpredictable weather |
| High crime |
Bad traffic congestion |
| High homelessness |
Lack of public transportation |
| Peculiar alcohol laws |
Air noise pollution |
Other things to consider for your Maryland to Virginia move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Virginia moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Virginia, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Virginia without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Virginia
Get ready to discover all that Virginia has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Virginia
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Historic Jamestowne
- Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
- Military Aviation Museum
Parks in Virginia
- Mill Mountain Star & Park
- Morven Park
- The Mariners’ Museum & Park
- Great Falls Park
- Leesylvania State Park
Sports teams in Virginia
- Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
- Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
- Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
- Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)
Universities in Virginia
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- College of William & Mary
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Maryland to Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Maryland to Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from Maryland to Virginia?
The main reasons people are moving from Maryland to Virginia are the amazing upsides of living in Virginia, such as strong economy and beautiful scenery.
Is it cheaper to live in Maryland or Virginia?
Living in Virginia usually costs less than in Maryland.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Virginia,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 6% lower than in Maryland.
The tax rate is about the same between Maryland and Virginia.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Virginia?
You should make approximately $72,647 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Virginia.
The cost of living in Virginia is about $19,977 per month for an individual and $4,783 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Neabsco and Virginia Beach tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Maryland?
Some movers in Maryland provide budget-friendly deals.
Special pricing for military members is available from 4 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 9 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Maryland to Virginia, expect to spend between
$1,187–$3,565 if using professional movers, about
$1,371 for a moving container, and around
$334
for a rental truck.
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