Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($867) Cost to Move From Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, MD

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 278 miles from Raleigh to Washington DC typically costs between $332 and $4,071. The trip is expected to last from one–four days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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 Raleigh to Washington DC

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 Raleigh to Washington DC

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Raleigh to Washington DC much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Raleigh, there are 27 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Washington DC.

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 Raleigh to Washington DC

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 278-mile move from Raleigh to Washington DC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $950 – $3,547
  • Moving Container $842 – $1,528
  • Rental Truck $315 – $569
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,441 – $4,071
  • Moving Container $1,129 – $1,998
  • Rental Truck $332 – $642
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,073 – $5,389
  • Moving Container $1,404 – $2,451
  • Rental Truck $418 – $758
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.
United Van Lines
Selma, NC Hillcrest Heights, MD
4 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Oxford, NC District Heights, MD
4 Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
PODS
Raleigh, NC Upper Marlboro, MD
3 Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
BLVD Moving
Carrboro, NC Somerset, MD
Studio apartment
Sep 10, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Holly Springs, NC Langley Park, MD
Studio apartment
Sep 01, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Princeton, NC Glen Echo, MD
3 Bedrooms
Aug 31, 2025
North American Van Lines
Wendell, NC Owings Mills, MD
4 Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
American Van Lines
Chapel Hill, NC Kemp Mill, MD
4 Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Durham, NC Chevy Chase View, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 06, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Hillsborough, NC Lanham, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 02, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Raleigh to Washington DC move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Raleigh that offers long-distance services to Washington DC can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 28 top local movers in Raleigh who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Raleigh to Washington DC.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62.0% of all reviews were positive
34.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking. On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave input says Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, professional teams who handle belongings with care and keep things moving efficiently. Out of 315 reviews, an overwhelming 93.7% rate the company highly, often calling out polite staff, excellent communication, careful handling, and fast, organized service as reasons to recommend them. Quotes usually match the final cost, and customers note that movers arrive on time, stay upbeat, and make stressful moves feel easy. On the other hand, negative feedback—about 5.4%—focuses on damaged items, with a few cases of slow or careless service, and occasional complaints about unexpectedly high or confusing charges and poor communication during claims or repairs. With positive ratings far above industry averages, Little Guys Movers garners trust through skilled teams and transparent pricing practices, though a handful of customers encounter problems with damage resolution or billing discrepancies.
Get a Quote (919) 439-2454

Company Info

State license #: 2548

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1931566

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts gets top marks from customers who appreciate reliable, courteous, and hardworking crews. Nearly 94% of feedback is positive across 334 reviews. People routinely mention how efficiently the teams work, how carefully they handle belongings, and how friendly and communicative they are throughout the process. Fair pricing stands out as another frequent highlight compared to competitors. A few clients, however, report issues such as damaged or poorly packed items, especially during busy or larger moves. Some negative input also cites crews lacking experience or rushing, which led to mistakes. In the rare neutral reviews, most concerns relate to minor service lapses or pandemic-related policy misunderstandings rather than major moving problems. Athens’s consistent reputation for speed, respectful service, and professionalism places them ahead of most local movers, but a small number of clients wish for even greater attention to packing quality and oversight during complex jobs.
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3205320

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.4% of all reviews were positive
18.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Excel Moving & Storage stands out with a stellar reputation for professionalism, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Of 283 customer experiences reviewed, 78% highlight attentive staff, timely communication, and a smooth moving process. Customers value the team’s politeness, quick work, and the sense that their possessions are respected. When compared to typical industry input, Excel’s high marks for effective communication and detail-oriented care put them ahead of many competitors. Despite the strong positive feedback, 18% report concerns, mainly regarding damaged or missing items and communication lapses after incidents. While most feedback applauds reliability, negative reviews reveal challenges with problem resolution, lost goods, and slow or absent responses when something goes wrong. Neutral feedback, just over 3%, notes good customer service but occasional delivery delays or minor damages. Excel earns frequent recommendations for large or complex moves, but customers should confirm policies on claims and coverage for valuable items. The company reliably delivers efficient, careful moves, though improvements in post-move communication could further strengthen their standing.
Get a Quote (919) 213-6694

Company Info

State license #: 2311

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—customers praise Next Stop Movers for quick and careful service, friendly and professional staff, and a consistently hassle-free experience. Seven customer feedback entries analyzed, with 100% rated positively. Movers handle furniture attentively, offer efficient solutions, and communicate clearly. People appreciate affordable rates and flexibility, standing out compared to less responsive companies. No negative feedback was reported, and no recurring issues surfaced among the reviews.
Get a Quote (919) 249-8351

Company Info

State license #: 1267633

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3619230

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Raleigh to Washington DC?

In North Carolina, moving services typically cost around $145 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $867 – $2,912 $593 – $1,428 $291 – $564
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,441 – $4,071 $1,129 – $1,998 $332 – $642
4+ bedrooms $2,073 – $5,389 $1,404 – $2,451 $418 – $758
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 278-mile move from Raleigh to Washington DC, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to Washington DC

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Washington DC from Raleigh, you can expect prices to land between $867 and $2,912. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,441 to $4,071 for the trip from Raleigh to Washington DC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,073 and $5,389.

Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to Washington DC

Moving containers from Raleigh to Washington DC will cost you $593 to $1,428 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,129 to $1,998. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,404 to $2,451. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Raleigh to Washington DC

Renting a moving truck from Raleigh to Washington DC typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $291 and $564 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $332 to $642. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $418 to $758.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Raleigh to Washington DC move

The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,118 for a one-bedroom, or up to $4,644 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Raleigh.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $291 to $678, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to Washington DC

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Washington DC runs about -35% higher for singles and 83% higher for families than Raleigh.

Singles spend around $3,963 in Raleigh versus $6,077 in Raleigh; families pay $11,093 compared with $6,077.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Raleigh Washington DC
Average 1 BR rent $1,820 $2,568
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $5,417
Average home value $431,795 $594,337
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $101,722
Cost of living (single) $6,077 $3,963
Cost of living (family of four) $6,077 $11,093
Unemployment rate 4.3% 7.0%
Sales tax 7.25% 6.0%
State income tax 4.5% 5.75%
  • Planning a move to Washington DC? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 44% higher than in Raleigh, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Washington DC are about 38% higher than those in Raleigh.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 3855% higher in Washington DC compared to Raleigh, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Washington DC, as the cost of living for a single person is 35% lower compared to Raleigh.
  • If you’re moving your family to Washington DC, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 83% higher than in Raleigh.
  • Washington DC shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Raleigh by around 63%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes are 17% less in Washington DC relative to Raleigh. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Maryland are 28% above those in North Carolina. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Raleigh and Washington DC:

Living Expense Raleigh Washington DC
Basic utilities $190.88 $191.62
Cell phone plan $64.40 $65.80
Dozen eggs $4.71 $4.67
Loaf of bread $4.12 $4.43
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.50 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $120.00
Gym membership $40.18 $103.76
  • Basic utilities cost less in Raleigh than in Washington DC, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Raleigh than in Washington DC.
  • Eggs cost more in Raleigh than in Washington DC.
  • Bread costs less in Raleigh than in Washington DC.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Raleigh than in Washington DC.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Raleigh than in Washington DC.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Raleigh than in Washington DC.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. Washington DC

Raleigh Washington DC
Population 467,665 672,079
Transportation score 4 9
Walkability score 31 77
Bike friendliness score 39 70
Crime index 38.87 60.37
Safety index 60.13 39.63
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Washington DC’s population is about 44% greater than Raleigh.
  • Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Raleigh’s score of 4.
  • Washington DC is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Raleigh’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than Raleigh, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 60.37 compared to Raleigh’s 38.87. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • Washington DC is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 39.63 vs Raleigh’s 60.13.
  • Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Raleigh it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh to Washington DC move

  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Maryland’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Maryland does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • 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 Washington DC. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Washington DC

Planning your move to DC? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Washington DC.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Adams Morgan
  • Capitol Hill
  • Cleveland Park
  • Foggy Bottom
  • Logan Circle

Best neighborhoods for families

  • AU-Tenleytown
  • Chevy Chase
  • Cleveland Park
  • Georgetown
  • The Palisades

Things to do in Washington DC

After settling into your new Maryland home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Washington DC has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Washington DC features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s National Mall, National Gallery of Art – Sculpture Garden, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Washington Wizards (NBA)Washington Capitals (NHL)Washington Mystics (WNBA)D.C. Untied (MLS)Washington Commanders (NFL)DC Defenders (XFL)Old Glory DC (MLR) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Raleigh to Washington DC?

Planning your move from Raleigh to Washington DC? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Raleigh.

When is the cheapest time to move from Raleigh to Washington DC?

Because most people are moving from Raleigh to Washington DC in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Raleigh to Washington DC take?

The 278-mile journey from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Raleigh offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Washington DC.

Are there special savings available from movers in Raleigh?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Raleigh?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Raleigh, 20 movers can manage piano relocations. 8 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, North Carolina has 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

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