How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to OH move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 101 Virginia moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Virginia to Ohio?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Virginia to Ohio.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,021 – $2,700 |
$607 – $1,441 |
$349 – $663 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,802 – $4,698 |
$1,097 – $2,086 |
$408 – $763 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,044 – $6,596 |
$1,441 – $2,640 |
$507 – $965 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 448-mile move from VA to
OH using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Virginia to Ohio
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Virginia to Ohio typically costs between
$1,021 and
$2,700.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$1,802
and $4,698
when moving from VA to OH.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Virginia to Ohio,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,044
up to $6,596.
Cost of moving containers from Virginia to Ohio
If you’re relocating from Virginia to Ohio,
you’ll typically spend between $607
and $1,441 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,097 up to
$2,086.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,441 and
$2,640. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to Ohio
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$349 and
$663.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$408 to
$763.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $507 and
$965.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to OH
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Virginia to Ohio. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Virginia, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from VA to OH
Transitioning from Virginia to Ohio gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Virginia vs. Ohio
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Virginia and Ohio are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Virginia |
Ohio |
| Average rent |
$1,440 |
$945 |
| Average home cost |
$392,682 |
$230,798 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,249 |
$66,990 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
5.73% |
7.23% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
3.5% |
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Rent is about 34% less expensive in Ohio than in Virginia, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Ohio are about 41% lower than in Virginia, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Ohio are roughly 23% lower than in Virginia.
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Moving to Ohio costs about 6% less than living in Virginia. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment in Ohio is about 24% higher than in Virginia. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax in Ohio runs 26% higher than in Virginia, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 39% lower in Ohio compared to Virginia. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Ohio vs. Virginia
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Ohio and Virginia compare.
|
Ohio |
Virginia |
| Population |
11,785,935 |
8,715,698 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 55-45 |
Democratic 52-48 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
40″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
28″ |
14″ |
| Crime index |
20.76 |
19.3 |
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If you’re moving from Virginia to Ohio, you’ll find Ohio has about 35% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Ohio leaned Republican, while Virginia supported Democratic.
-
The average summer high in Ohio is 84°F, while Virginia averages 87°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
-
During the coldest months, Ohio averages 20°F while Virginia sees lows of 25°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
In Ohio, you’ll experience about 40 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 44 inches you’re used to in Virginia.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
Each year, Ohio gets about 28 inches of snow, far more than the 14 inches you might be accustomed to in Virginia.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
Ohio has a higher crime rate than Virginia, with a crime index of 20.76 compared to 19.3.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Virginia vs. Ohio
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Ohio to Virginia:
| Pros of living in Virginia |
Pros of living in Ohio |
| Strong economy |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful scenery |
Low cost of living |
| Abundance of outdoor activities |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Enjoyable four season weather |
Famously delicious beer |
| Strong military presence |
Amazing food |
Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. Ohio
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Virginia to Ohio:
| Cons of living in Virginia |
Cons of living in Ohio |
| High cost of living |
Low happiness |
| Unpredictable weather |
Limited diversity |
| Bad traffic congestion |
Political division |
| Lack of public transportation |
Harsh weather |
| Air noise pollution |
Weird laws |
Other things to consider for your Virginia to Ohio move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Ohio moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Ohio, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Ohio. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Ohio
Get excited to explore Ohio. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Ohio
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Cleveland Museum of Art
- A Christmas Story House
- National Museum of the US Air Force
Parks in Ohio
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Wayne National Forest
- Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave
- Maumee Bay State Park
Sports teams in Ohio
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB)
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
- Cleveland Browns (NFL)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Universities in Ohio
- The Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
- Case Western Reserve University
- Kent State University
- Bowling Green State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Virginia to Ohio?
Do movers transport your car from Virginia to Ohio?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Virginia to
Ohio
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Virginia to Ohio?
Many people are making the move from Virginia to Ohio to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Ohio has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or Ohio?
Living in Ohio usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is more affordable in Ohio,
with average rent about 34% less and home prices 41% lower than in Virginia.
Taxes are also
lower in Ohio, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Ohio?
Planning to move to Ohio? A single adult should aim for an income of around $65,241 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,580 for an individual, or $6,799 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Columbus and Cleveland usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Virginia?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Virginia:
3 provide military discounts;
2 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Virginia to Ohio, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,802 to
$4,698, roughly
$1,591 for a container move, and close to
$585
for a rental truck.
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