How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to VA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 10 West Virginia movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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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.
How much does it cost to move from West Virginia to Virginia?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from West Virginia
to Virginia, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$773 – $2,930 |
$560 – $1,306 |
$244 – $458 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,428 – $4,060 |
$998 – $1,898 |
$277 – $543 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,972 – $5,375 |
$1,352 – $2,268 |
$335 – $656 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 236-mile relocation from WV to
VA, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from West Virginia to Virginia
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from West Virginia to Virginia, you’ll likely pay between
$773
and $2,930.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$1,428 and $4,060
for the same journey (WV to VA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $1,972
to $5,375.
Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to Virginia
When you’re heading from West Virginia to Virginia, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $560 and
$1,306. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $998 and
$1,898. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,352
to $2,268. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from West Virginia easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from West Virginia to Virginia
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$244
to $458.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $277
to $543, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from West Virginia to Virginia costs around
$335 to
$656.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WV to VA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from West Virginia to Virginia. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in West Virginia when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from WV to VA
If you’re moving to Virginia from West Virginia, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: West Virginia vs. Virginia
Understanding how costs compare between West Virginia and Virginia can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
West Virginia |
Virginia |
| Average rent |
$899 |
$1,440 |
| Average home cost |
$168,172 |
$392,682 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$55,217 |
$87,249 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.2% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
5.73% |
| State income tax |
6.5% |
5.75% |
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Rent is about 60% higher in Virginia than in West Virginia. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Virginia are typically about 134% higher than in West Virginia.
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You’re likely to earn about 58% more in Virginia than in West Virginia. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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The cost of living is 11% higher in Virginia than in West Virginia. If you’re making the move to Virginia with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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Virginia boasts an unemployment rate about 31% lower than West Virginia. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in West Virginia and Virginia, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income taxes in Virginia are 12% lower than in West Virginia. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Virginia vs. West Virginia
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Virginia and West Virginia line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Virginia |
West Virginia |
| Population |
8,715,698 |
1,782,959 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-48 |
Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
83ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
21ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
14″ |
33″ |
| Crime index |
19.3 |
17.47 |
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The population of Virginia is approximately 389% greater than the population of West Virginia.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential election, Virginia voted Democratic, while West Virginia went Republican.
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In Virginia, summer highs are around 87°F, close to 83°F in West Virginia.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter temperatures usually fall to 25°F in Virginia and 21°F in West Virginia.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
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In Virginia, you’ll see about 44 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 45 inches you’re used to in West Virginia.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
-
In Virginia, you’ll only get about 14 inches of snow each year, much less than West Virginia.
That means moving to Virginia brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
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Virginia has a higher crime rate than West Virginia, with a crime index of 19.3 compared to 17.47.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of West Virginia vs. Virginia
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Virginia and West Virginia:
| Pros of living in West Virginia |
Pros of living in Virginia |
| Low cost of living |
Strong economy |
| Abundant outdoor activities |
Beautiful scenery |
| 4 distinct seasons of weather |
Abundance of outdoor activities |
| Immense natural beauty |
Enjoyable four season weather |
| Relaxed small cities and towns |
Strong military presence |
Comparing the cons of living in West Virginia vs. Virginia
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving West Virginia for Virginia:
| Cons of living in West Virginia |
Cons of living in Virginia |
| Dismal economy |
High cost of living |
| High rates of crime |
Unpredictable weather |
| High rates of drug abuse |
Bad traffic congestion |
| Shrinking population |
Lack of public transportation |
| Lack of diversity |
Air noise pollution |
Other things to consider for your West Virginia to Virginia move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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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). Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Virginia moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Virginia, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Virginia right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. 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:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Virginia
While you’re in Virginia, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home 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 West Virginia to Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from West Virginia to Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from West Virginia to Virginia?
An increasing number of people are relocating from West Virginia to Virginia to enjoy all the great benefits Virginia provides, such as strong economy and beautiful scenery.
Is it cheaper to live in West Virginia or Virginia?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is much more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 38% less and home prices 57% lower than in Virginia.
However, taxes are
lower in Virginia, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by West Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Virginia?
Thinking of moving to Virginia on your own? You’ll want to earn around $72,647 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $19,977 per month, or around $4,783 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Neabsco and Virginia Beach tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
West Virginia moving services
Popular West Virginia routes
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When moving from West Virginia to Virginia, you’ll likely pay between $1,428–$4,060 with professional movers, roughly
$1,448 for a moving container, and about
$410
for a rental truck.
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