Best Sacramento to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Sacramento to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,813 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Sacramento 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 Sacramento 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 Sacramento to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Rickey's Gold Country Moving9.238.91Authorized For HHG
4Workhorse Moving Co.8.488.69Authorized For Property, HHG
5House to Home Moving8.458.14Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Sacramento to Washington DC?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,813 miles from Sacramento, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,173 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Sacramento to Washington DC move is roughly $10,092. 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$2,797300 ft³$9.32
1 Bedroom$4,173450 ft³$9.27
2 Bedrooms$6,918750 ft³$9.22
3 Bedrooms$10,0921100 ft³$9.17
4 Bedrooms$14,5991600 ft³$9.12
5+ Bedrooms$16,3341800 ft³$9.07
*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 Sacramento guide.

Compare the 5 Best Sacramento 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
Rickey's Gold Country Moving Logo

Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 334+ data points

15887 Rattlesnake Rd

Grass Valley, CA, 95945

About Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3065202 / 1398360

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Workhorse Moving Co. Logo

Workhorse Moving Co.

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 266+ data points

West Sacramento, CA, 95691

About Workhorse Moving Co.

Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3369346 / 1080028

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2023)
View Full Review
4
House to Home Moving Logo

House to Home Moving

Fabulous8.45/10
based on 1,586+ data points

3298 Orange Grove Ave

North Highlands, CA, 95660

About House to Home Moving

Family-owned since 2010, House to Home Moving has been helping residents with its high-quality relocation services for a decade. This company...

Services

  • Local and long distance moving services
  • Specialized senior relocation (white glove)
  • Packing and Unpacking, including materials

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2395707 / 823800

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
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.

Sacramento vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when transitioning between cities as unique as Sacramento, CA, and Washington DC, DC. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison focusing on the top neighborhoods in Sacramento, California, & Washington DC, DC , pinpointing neighborhoods with similar vibes, amenities, and culture. This guide aims to help familiarize you with an unknown city by leveraging what you already know and love about your current locale.

SacramentoWashington DCHow They're Similar
MidtownDupont CircleVibrant nightlife, artsy
East SacramentoCleveland ParkFamily-friendly, historic homes
Land ParkCapitol HillGreen spaces, community-focused
NatomasSouthwest WaterfrontGrowing, waterfront views
ElmhurstBrooklandQuiet, arts scene
Oak ParkShawCultural hub, historic
Curtis ParkGeorgetownCharming, upscale
Tahoe ParkPetworthCommunity vibe, parks
East PortalBloomingdaleClose-knit community, local eateries
Pocket-GreenhavenPalisadesQuiet, family-oriented

Moving from the tree-lined streets of East Sacramento? You'll find a similar historic charm and family-friendly atmosphere in Cleveland Park, DC, known for its beautiful, historic homes and proximity to the National Zoo. Meanwhile, Midtown Sacramento's lively arts scene and eclectic nightlife find a counterpart in Dupont Circle, where galleries, museums, and theaters are aplenty. If the expansive green spaces and community events of Land Park are what you love, you'll find Capitol Hill in Washington DC equally endearing, with its accessible parks, including the iconic United States Capitol grounds, and vibrant community events. These comparisons highlight not just the physical semblance but also the essence of what makes each neighborhood unique, ensuring you can find a piece of what you love in your new city.

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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.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Sacramento to Washington DC

Moving from one city to another invites a mix of emotions and considerations. Through these charts, we aim to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Sacramento, CA to Washington DC, DC . This comparison will hopefully provide a clearer picture of what to expect, setting you up for a smoother transition.

CONs
PROs
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Higher summer heat
  • Less public transit
  • Fewer job opportunities in gov/politics
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Lower walkability
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Milder summers
  • Extensive metro system
  • Abundance of gov/political jobs
  • Rich cultural institutions
  • High walkability
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Harsher Winters
  • Less green space
  • Higher cost of living
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • Less local produce
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Milder Winters
  • Proximity to nature
  • More affordable housing
  • Relaxed vibe
  • Local agricultural produce

Moving from the laid-back atmosphere of Sacramento, with its access to fresh local agricultural produce, such as the bounty found at the Midtown Farmers Market, to the bustling, politically charged energy of Washington, DC will be a significant change. Washington DC greets newcomers with its rich cultural institutions like the Smithsonian Museums and the abundant career opportunities within the government and politics. While Sacramento offers a more relaxed lifestyle and easier access to nature, with spots like the American River providing a quick nature escape, DC's myriad of parks such as Rock Creek Park offer their own urban oasis amidst the busy city life. Despite the higher cost of living and the pace of life, many find DC's historical sights, vibrant neighborhoods, and extensive public transit system—spanning buses to the Metro—a worthy exchange.

Sacramento vs. Washington DC Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Sacramento & Washington DC to better inform you about the food scene in your new city. Understanding local cuisine is vital as food plays a significant role in the cultural and living experience of an area.

Sacramento
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Farm-to-Fork Dishes
Half-Smoke
Most popular meat dish
Grilled Tri-tip
Mumbo Sauce Wings
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Falafel
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Impossible Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Waterboy
  • Ella Dining Room and Bar
  • The Kitchen Restaurant
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Le Diplomate
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Relocating from Sacramento to Washington DC offers a rich tapestry of culinary exploration. In Sacramento, farm-to-fork dishes highlight the region's fresh produce, while Washington DC takes pride in its unique half-smoke sausages and diverse international offerings, like the popular falafel found all over the city, especially in bustling neighborhoods like Adams Morgan. Iconic restaurants like Ben's Chili Bowl in DC offer a taste of the city's rich history and culinary creativity. Moreover, DC's higher score in the abundance of food trucks and foodie scene suggests a vibrant street food culture that awaits newcomers, offering everything from quick bites to gourmet experiences right on the corner.

Sacramento vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

For many, finding a new favorite eatery is a key part of feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Sacramento and Washington DC aims to ease your transition by offering a guide to similar dining experiences in your new locale. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this comparison will help you discover your next go-to spot.

SacramentoWashington DCWhat You'll Love
The Kitchen RestaurantMinibar by José AndrésBoth offer an exclusive, interactive dining experience.
Mulvaney's B&LBlue Duck TavernBoth emphasize farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients.
Ella Dining Room and BarLe DiplomateBoth provide a sophisticated atmosphere and focus on European-inspired dishes.
ZocaloOyamel Cocina MexicanaBoth are known for their vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine.
Frank Fat'sPeter ChangBoth are iconic for their unique and flavorful Asian dishes.
Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi BarSushi TaroBoth acclaimed for their sushi and authentic Japanese dishes.
Grange Restaurant & BarFounding FarmersBoth focus on modern American cuisine with an emphasis on sustainability.
The Firehouse RestaurantOld Ebbitt GrillBoth are historic establishments offering classic American fare.
Paragary'sThe HamiltonBoth are stylish, offering a varied menu that caters to all tastes.
Mahoroba Japanese BakeryBaked&WiredWhile not Japanese, both offer unique, high-quality baked goods and a cult following.

When exploring the dining scene of Washington DC, enthusiasts of Sacramento's diverse culinary landscape will find comforting similarities. For instance, the transition from The Kitchen Restaurant’s interactive dining to Minibar by José Andrés’s intimate setting showcases how both cities offer unique, avant-garde culinary experiences. Similarly, if you’ve enjoyed the farm-to-table approach of Mulvaney's B&L, you’ll appreciate the commitment to locally sourced ingredients at Blue Duck Tavern. It's not just about finding a place that serves similar cuisine; it’s about discovering spaces that share the same values in food quality, atmosphere, and the dining experience. These comparisons suggest that regardless of where you are, the joy of a great meal remains a constant companion.

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Sacramento vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move. It's vital to understand how Sacramento and Washington DC compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more, to make an informed decision.

Sacramento
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch, Craftsman
Victorian, Federal
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Pools, Open Floor Plans
Historic Details, Proximity to Metro

Understanding the housing landscape in Sacramento and Washington DC reveals distinct lifestyles and priorities. In Sacramento, homes often feature pools and open floor plans, valuing space and modern living. Its architecture, like Ranch or Craftsman styles, reflects this, offering a blend of comfort and functionality. On the other hand, Washington DC emphasizes its rich history and accessibility. Homes here often boast historic details and a proximity to the Metro, catering to those who value urban living and convenience. Moreover, DC’s higher walkability and bikeability scores underline its urban lifestyle, offering a vibrant city life that Sacramento leans towards with its improving urban metrics.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Sacramento vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires understanding the new climate you'll be adapting to. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in Sacramento, CA and Washington, DC varies, giving you a clearer picture of your new home's seasonal changes.

Sacramento
Washington DC
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Hurricanes, Winter Storms
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

91°F / 58°F
89°F / 71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

54°F / 38°F
47°F / 29°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

18
40
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
15.4


When relocating from Sacramento to Washington, DC, you're transitioning from a drier climate with abundant sunshine to a more humid environment with increased rainfall and snowfall. The significant difference in humidity levels and the number of sunny days per year are important factors to consider for your daily comfort and lifestyle. Moreover, while Sacramento is prone to wildfires and earthquakes, Washington, DC faces its own challenges with hurricanes and winter storms, necessitating different preparedness measures. Understanding these weather variations will help you adjust more smoothly to your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

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

When moving from one city to another, essential to grasp is how the cost of living, income, and taxes in Sacramento will compare to Washington DC. This comparison will guide you in budgeting and financial planning for your move.

Sacramento
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$75,311
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
116.2
140.1
State Income Tax
1-13.3
4-8.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.81
0.56
Avg. Sales Tax
8.25
6
Top 3 Industries
Government, Healthcare, Education
Government, Professional Services, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low to Moderate
Homelessness
Noticeable
Significant

Moving from Sacramento to Washington DC, you'll encounter a significant jump in the cost of living, chiefly in terms of housing and everyday expenses. However, this is somewhat offset by the higher average household income in DC. Taxes also vary notably; though Sacramento has a high top marginal state income tax rate, DC's income tax rates are generally lower, making it favorable for many. Property taxes in DC are lower too, offering some reprieve despite the higher cost of living. Both cities have a government presence that influences their top industries, but Washington's professional services and tourism sectors add economic diversity. While DC is more affluent on average, it, unfortunately, faces significant homelessness issues, a crucial factor to consider when moving.

Sacramento vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Sacramento, CA to Washington DC, DC, it's important to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Sacramento & Washington DC, helping you gauge the cultural atmosphere of your potential new home.

Sacramento
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Diverse local governance
High political engagement
Religion
Mixed, with significant Christian and non-religious populations
Diverse, with a notable presence of Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and non-religious groups

When you move from Sacramento to Washington DC, you'll transition into an environment with a strong Democratic leaning, reflective of DC's significant political engagement and its role as the nation's capital. Both cities embrace diversity in local governance, yet the political atmosphere in DC is more intensely charged, offering unique opportunities for civic involvement. Religiously, both Sacramento and Washington DC host a rich tapestry of faiths, encouraging an open and inclusive community spirit. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your new social landscape more effectively.

Sacramento vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Sacramento & Washington DC to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like when moving from one city to the other.

Sacramento
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
26
30
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
Yes, more feasible

While Sacramento offers a slightly less congested traffic experience with an average commute time of 26 minutes, Washington DC residents face a bit more challenge due to higher congestion levels. However, DC shines in terms of public transportation, scoring an 8 out of 10 for availability. This makes living in DC without a car much more feasible than in Sacramento, where it's possible but could present some challenges. Whether you're planning to rely on your own vehicle or prefer public transit, considering these differences is crucial for your daily commute in either city.

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