Best Los Angeles to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Los Angeles to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,737 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 54 Los Angeles to Washington DC moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Los Angeles compared to Washington DC. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Los Angeles to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Best California Movers9.539.73Authorized For HHG
4Moving Pro, Inc.9.479.01Authorized For Property, HHG
5Prodigy Moving & Storage9.409.24Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Washington DC?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,737 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,109 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Washington DC move is roughly $9,934. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,754300 ft³$9.18
1 Bedroom$4,109450 ft³$9.13
2 Bedrooms$6,810750 ft³$9.08
3 Bedrooms$9,9341100 ft³$9.03
4 Bedrooms$14,3691600 ft³$8.98
5+ Bedrooms$16,0751800 ft³$8.93
*Please note: These California to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & DC. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to DC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Washington DC Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,057+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 3,605+ data points

1250 9th st. nw

Washington DC, DC, 20011

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 2,643+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.47/10
based on 1,253+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo

Prodigy Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.40/10
based on 10,608+ data points

601 S Figueroa St

Los Angeles, CA, 90017

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

When considering a move from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with the new urban environment can be daunting. To bridge this gap, we’ve emboldened a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Washington DC, DC , offering a comparative glance at familiar locales and their counterparts in your new city.

Los AngelesWashington DCHow They're Similar
Silver LakeCapitol HillVibrant, artsy community
VeniceGeorgetownHistoric with lively waterfront
HollywoodU Street CorridorNightlife hotspots, historic theaters
Beverly HillsKaloramaUpscale, with stately homes
Downtown LADowntown DCHeart of the city, business district
West HollywoodDupont CircleVibrant LGBTQ+ scene, nightlife
Santa MonicaNavy YardNear the waterfront, modern developments
MalibuPotomacExclusive, scenic views of the Potomac River
Griffith ParkRock Creek ParkExtensive trails, green space
Los FelizAdams MorganDiverse culture, historical homes

Imagine strolling through the vibrant streets of Venice, soaking in the beachy, artistic vibe that makes the area a beloved spot. In Washington DC, Georgetown offers a similar charm with its historic buildings, bustling M Street, and picturesque waterfront, making it a perfect counterpart. If the upscale and iconic backdrop of Beverly Hills holds a special place in your heart, you'll find Kalorama's stately homes and manicured lawns a luxurious echo of such grandeur. For those who relish the outdoors and the sprawling views of Griffith Park, Rock Creek Park offers an expanse of natural beauty and miles of trails that promise an escape within the city. Each of these neighborhoods, from the artsy alleys of Silver Lake mirrored by Capitol Hill's vibrant community to the nightlife of West Hollywood resonating in Dupont Circle’s effervescent streets, reflects a tapestry of urban life that ties Los Angeles to Washington DC in uniquely comparative ways.

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Things to Do in Washington DC

  • Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.
  • Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
  • Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
  • Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
  • Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
  • Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
  • Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to Washington DC

Moving from one city to another brings a blend of changes, and when the relocation is from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to weigh both sides. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this move, helping you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Earthquake risk
  • Smog and pollution
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Public transportation options
  • Seasonal weather
  • Cleaner environment
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Harsh winters
  • No beaches
  • More expensive dining
  • Smaller green spaces
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Beach access
  • Diverse food scene
  • Outdoor activities

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC offers you a dramatic shift in lifestyle and environment. In D.C., you'll find yourself immersed in a rich cultural scene with historical sights and museums, like the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art, at your doorstep. The public transportation system, including the Metro, makes getting around much easier compared to LA's heavy reliance on cars. However, you'll trade LA's mild winters and beach days for D.C.'s vibrant autumn leaves and snowy winters, which bear their own charm. Neighborhood parks in D.C., such as Rock Creek Park, offer beautiful green spaces, though they may not be as expansive as LA's. The dining scene in D.C. is excellent, with renowned spots like Rose's Luxury providing unique culinary experiences, albeit at a higher cost than many LA eateries.

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Washington DC, highlighting the significant role food plays in understanding and enjoying the local culture of an area you're moving to. Let’s dive into the culinary contrasts to enrich your relocation journey.

Los Angeles
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Tacos
Half-Smoke
Most popular meat dish
Korean BBQ
Steak
Most popular street food item
Food Trucks offerings
Jumbo Slice Pizza
Most popular vegan food
Plant-based burgers
Vegan Soul Food
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • n/naka
    • Guisados
    • Spago
    • Ben's Chili Bowl
    • Rose's Luxury
    • Zaytinya
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Los Angeles, the food scene is as diverse as its population, with Mexican cuisine taking a front seat, notably through its iconic tacos available in various neighborhoods like Echo Park and Silver Lake. The city is also known for its health-conscious offerings, particularly on the west side, including Venice and Santa Monica, where plant-based burgers and vegan options abound. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, the culinary landscape offers a blend of American tradition and international flavors. The half-smoke, a local delicacy, can predominantly be found at Ben's Chili Bowl. The city's foodie scene, though slightly less variegated than Los Angeles, is vibrant and offers ample options for every palate, including a growing number of vegan establishments throughout the U Street Corridor and Capitol Hill.

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC, finding new favorite eateries that remind you of home can be a significant part of settling into a new city. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition by matching top Los Angeles restaurants to their Washington DC equivalents, ensuring that your culinary adventure continues seamlessly in your new home.

Los AngelesWashington DCWhat You'll Love
BestiaMasseriaItalian cuisine with a refined touch
RepubliqueLe DiplomateFrench brasserie charm and bustling atmosphere
Roscoe's Chicken and WafflesFounding FarmersKnown for its comfort food and hearty breakfasts
GuisadosMezcalero Cocina MexicanaAuthentic Mexican tacos with a creative twist
SpagoFiola MareHigh-end dining with exquisite seafood selections
In-N-Out BurgerGood Stuff EateryBurgers and shakes with a focus on quality ingredients
Din Tai FungDumplings & BeyondOffering a variety of handmade dumplings and Chinese dishes
Howlin' Ray'sHot Lola’sExceptional hot chicken with varying levels of spice
Gracias MadreOyamel Cocina MexicanaInnovative Mexican plant-based dishes
PerchRoofers UnionOffers a vibrant atmosphere with rooftop dining

In the bustling streets of both Los Angeles and Washington DC, culinary enthusiasts will find solace in the seamless transition from one city's favorites to another's. At Masseria, reminiscent of Bestia in LA, you'll be enthralled by their meticulously crafted Italian dishes, presenting a perfect blend of innovation and tradition. For those mornings when only Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles will satisfy your cravings, Founding Farmers stands ready in DC with its comfort food menu that brings a taste of home closer than ever. Whether it's the upscale seafood at Fiola Mare echoing the experiences at Spago or the alternative burger haven Good Stuff Eatery offering a reminiscent taste akin to In-N-Out Burger, each restaurant pair has been meticulously matched to ensure that your culinary adventure continues without missing a beat in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

Considering a move? Looking into the real estate aspects of your new city is crucial. This comparison dives into the nitty-gritty of what makes Los Angeles and Washington DC unique in terms of housing —from costs and architecture to lifestyle. It's a peek into what your life might look like in each city.

Los Angeles
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Modern, Spanish
Colonial, Victorian
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Pool, Open Floor Plan
Brick Exteriors, Historic Features

When you delve into housing between Los Angeles and Washington DC, several fascinating characteristics emerge. Los Angeles leans towards modern and Spanish architectural styles, reflecting its vibrant and diverse culture, often highlighted by listings featuring pools and open floor plans, catering to the city's indoor-outdoor living appeal. On the other hand, Washington DC's housing market treasures its Colonial and Victorian roots, with historic features and brick exteriors frequently advertised, appealing to those drawn to classic American architecture. The higher walkability and bikeability scores of Washington DC also suggest a more compact urban environment, conducive to those who prefer to commute on foot or bike, contrasting with Los Angeles's sprawling layout.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington DC, DC

1. Dupont Circle : You'll find plenty of dog parks and pet-friendly cafes that make it easy to enjoy the vibrant neighborhood with your furry friend.

2. Capitol Hill : With its ample green spaces and community vibe, this area offers a welcoming environment for you and your pets to roam.

3. Adams Morgan : Known for its diverse pet-friendly establishments, this neighborhood ensures your pet is part of your social outings.

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another brings a world of change, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the climate differs between Los Angeles and Washington DC helps you prepare for your new environment. This comparison will give you insights into what to expect and how to best adapt to your new city.

Los Angeles
Washington DC
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Blizzards, Hurricanes
Air Quality
Modest
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F/64°F
88°F/71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F/48°F
47°F/28°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15
40
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
22


When you move from Los Angeles to Washington DC, you're not just transitioning between cities but also adapting to a significant change in weather patterns. The mild, dry climate of Los Angeles with abundant sunshine is a stark contrast to the more variable and humid conditions in Washington DC. Expect warmer summers and notably colder winters in DC, including snowfall - a rarity in LA. Additionally, while Los Angeles grapples with earthquakes and wildfires, Washington DC faces its own set of challenges with blizzards and hurricanes. This variation underscores the importance of preparing for a different set of seasonal clothing, home preparations, and possibly even health considerations relating to allergies. Understanding these differences will help you make a smoother transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to Washington DC

When making a big move, such as relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC, it’s crucial to grasp how your financial landscape will change. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in money and finance factors between these two cities, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new life.

Los Angeles
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$70,372
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
136.4
140.1
State Income Tax
9.3
8.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.793
0.56
Avg. Sales Tax
9.5
6
Top 3 Industries
Entertainment, Manufacturing, Technology
Government, Education, Professional Services
Affluence
Varies
High
Poverty
Notable
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Concerning

In comparing the financial landscapes between Los Angeles and Washington DC, several crucial aspects stand out. While the average household income is significantly higher in Washington DC, making it seem more affluent on the surface, the cost of living index is also notably high, though slightly less than Los Angeles. This is balanced by lower sales and property taxes in DC, which can impact your long-term financial planning. The variance in top industries between the two cities highlights the opportunity for different career paths. Los Angeles' entertainment and technology sectors contrast with Washington DC's government and professional services, revealing potential shifts in employment opportunities for movers. Understanding these nuances helps in making an informed decision and preparing financially for your move.

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC brings about the importance of understanding the communities you're transitioning between. This glance offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Los Angeles & Washington DC , aiming to familiarize you with the demographic nuances of your new home.

Los Angeles
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Liberal Majority
Highly Democratic
Local Politics
Diverse, with significant representation from a variety of backgrounds
Heavy federal influence, with a focus on national and international issues
Religion
Multicultural and diverse, with Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism among the practiced religions
Predominantly Christian, but significantly diverse religious landscape

In both Los Angeles and Washington DC, you will find a diverse and multicultural environment, but there are key differences in the local political landscape and religious makeup that you might find interesting. Los Angeles embraces a broad spectrum of political beliefs but leans towards liberal ideologies, supported by its diverse population that also reflects in its religious practices which include a blend of Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism. On the other hand, Washington DC is known for its heavily Democratic lean, influenced by its significant role in national and federal matters. The religious landscape in DC, while predominantly Christian, does not fall short in diversity, mirroring the city's multifaceted cultural and political environment. Understanding these nuances can help you adjust to your new surroundings and engage more effectively with your community.

Los Angeles vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Washington DC, DC, it's vital to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison will help you grasp what commuting and getting around in each city will be like, shedding light on the traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Washington DC.

Los Angeles
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
29
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
Yes

When moving from Los Angeles to Washington DC, one of the most notable differences you'll encounter is in how you'll navigate daily commutes. Los Angeles is infamous for its traffic congestion, making it a city where having a car can often feel like a necessity despite the presence of public transit options like the Metro. In contrast, Washington DC boasts a more efficient public transportation system, highlighted by the widespread use of the WMATA services, which make getting around without a car not only possible but oftentimes preferable. This stark contrast in public transit availability and the cultural reliance on cars in Los Angeles versus Washington DC can significantly impact your daily life, from commute times to considerations on whether or not to own a car.

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