Washington DC, MD to Norfolk, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Norfolk typically costs $1,400–$4,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 194 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Washington DC to Norfolk
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Norfolk, VA typically costs $1,400–$4,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 194-mile move from Washington DC to Norfolk, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $3,006 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $2,147 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $291 for a 5+ bedroom using a rental truck.
5+ Bedrooms
Mar 02, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 28, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 25, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 28, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 20, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 02, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 22, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 20, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Washington DC to Norfolk
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 Norfolk might be as low as $900, while a four-bedroom could reach $5,500.
- 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 $300 to $600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Norfolk, VA to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Norfolk movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Norfolk
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Washington DC to Norfolk, 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→VA 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 Norfolk
Many movers find Norfolk easier on the wallet than Washington DC - roughly 30% less for singles and 50% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,769 for one person in Norfolk versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it's $5,552 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Norfolk | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,875 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $2,492 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $283,890 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $63,484 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $2,769 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $5,552 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 5.75% |
- Good news! When moving to Norfolk from Washington DC, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 38% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 52% cheaper in Norfolk, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 38% lower in Norfolk than in Washington DC.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Norfolk. The cost of living for a single person is 30% less compared to Washington DC.
- Relocating to Norfolk could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 50% lower than in Washington DC.
- There's little difference in the unemployment rates of Norfolk and Washington DC, within a margin of 5%, so job opportunities should be similar.
- Sales taxes are effectively the same in Norfolk and Washington DC (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
- Income taxes are similar in Virginia and Maryland (within about 5%), so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering a level of financial predictability as you transition between states.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Washington DC and Norfolk, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Norfolk |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $190.88 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $49.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $4.12 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.25 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
- Eggs are less expensive in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Norfolk.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Norfolk
| Washington DC | Norfolk | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 238,005 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 46 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 47 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 58.1 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 41.9 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Norfolk's population is about 65% less than Washington DC.
- Norfolk's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC's score of 9.
- Norfolk is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Norfolk has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Norfolk and Washington DC have a similar crime rate with scores of 58.1 and 60.37, respectively.
- Norfolk is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 41.9 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
- Air quality in Norfolk is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Norfolk 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: 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). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Virginia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Virginia, 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 Norfolk 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 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.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Norfolk
Ready to relocate to Norfolk? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Norfolk.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- East Ghent
- North Ghent
- Ghent
- Downtown
- West Ghent
- Newtown
- Edgewater-Larchmont
- West 21st Street
- Colonial Place
Best neighborhoods for families
- North Ghent
- Ghent
- Virginia Beach
- Edgewater-Larchmont
- West Ghent
- East Ghent
Things to do in Norfolk
Now that you've made the move to Virginia, it's the perfect time to explore Norfolk. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Norfolk include museums and art centers like the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Chrysler Museum of Art, Nauticus, and MacArthur Memorial.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Norfolk Botanical Garden, Pagoda & Oriental Garden, Town Point Park, and Lake Drummond, 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 Norfolk Tides (Baseball-International League (AAA))Norfolk Admirals (Ice hockey)Old Dominion University (Football)Old Dominion University (Basketball)Norfolk State University (Football)Norfolk State University (Basketball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Norfolk?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Washington DC to Norfolk. 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 Norfolk?
With many people choosing to move from Washington DC to Norfolk 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 Norfolk take?
Covering 194 miles, the move from Washington DC, MD to Norfolk, VA typically takes one to two days. Some Washington DC movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Norfolk 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 Norfolk?
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 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
