Best Salinas to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salinas to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,965 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Salinas 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 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salinas 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 Salinas to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Mod Movers8.818.1Authorized For HHG
4Poulos Moving Systems8.378.48Authorized For HHG
5Cardinale Moving & Storage7.627.06Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,965 miles from Salinas, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,303 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salinas to Washington DC move is roughly $10,408. 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$2,883300 ft³$9.61
1 Bedroom$4,303450 ft³$9.56
2 Bedrooms$7,134750 ft³$9.51
3 Bedrooms$10,4081100 ft³$9.46
4 Bedrooms$15,0581600 ft³$9.41
5+ Bedrooms$16,8511800 ft³$9.36
*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 Salinas guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salinas 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
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.81/10
based on 960+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.37/10
based on 464+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Cardinale Moving & Storage Logo

Cardinale Moving & Storage

7.62/10
based on 328+ data points

11360 Commercial Pkwy

Castroville, CA, 95012

About Cardinale Moving & Storage

Cardinale Moving & Storage is owned and operated by the Cardinale family who has lived on the Monterey peninsula for well...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Moves within California
  • Interstate moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

45193 / 138022

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (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.

Salinas vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting. To make this transition smoother, we've crafted a guide to help you find areas in your new city that share the vibe of your current neighborhood. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Salinas, CA & Washington DC, DC, we aim to help you feel right at home, quicker. Let’s explore where you might find your next favorite spot.

SalinasWashington DCHow They're Similar
South SalinasCapitol HillHistoric, community-focused
North SalinasPetworthFamily-friendly, green spaces
Maple ParkDupont CircleArchitectural charm, vibrant
CreekbridgeChevy ChaseResidential, peaceful
LaurelwoodTenleytownEducation-oriented, serene
Monterey ParkGeorgetownHistoric, boutique shopping
Mission ParkColumbia HeightsDiverse, community events
Los OlivosAdams MorganCulturally diverse, nightlife
HarrodLeDroit ParkQuiet, historic homes
University ParkBrooklandArts scene, academic influence

Imagining your life in a new city gets easier when you find a neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle. For example, if you've enjoyed the community-focused and historical ambiance of South Salinas, Capitol Hill in Washington DC offers a similar vibe, with its beautiful historic buildings and a strong sense of community, evident in its local farmers' markets and community events. Should the eclectic and vibrant lifestyle of Los Olivos appeal to you, Adams Morgan will charm you with its cultural diversity and bustling nightlife, including renowned destinations like Madam's Organ Blues Bar. For those seeking a quiet, family-friendly area similar to Creekbridge, Chevy Chase presents a peaceful respite with its suburban feel, green spaces, and local schools, making it an ideal neighborhood for raising a family.

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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 Salinas to Washington DC

Moving from one city to another is a big decision that involves weighing the cons of living in Salinas, CA against the pros of moving to Washington DC, DC. This comparison aims to give you a clearer perspective by pitting the drawbacks of your current location against the benefits of your potential new home, and vice versa. Let's dive into an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Less job opportunities
  • Smaller local market
  • Lower cultural diversity
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Increased career options
  • Global networking opportunities
  • Diverse community
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Humid summers
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fast-paced environment
  • Less green space
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Mild weather
  • Affordable living
  • Close-knit community
  • Access to nature

Moving from Salinas to Washington DC offers you an incredible chance to experience a vibrant cultural scene. For instance, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Smithsonian museums, such as the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, free of charge. Furthermore, the diversity in DC extends to its dining scene with a wide variety of international cuisines available at establishments like Zaytinya for Mediterranean flavors. However, it's worth noting that your cost of living might increase, driven by factors such as housing and day-to-day expenses. While Salinas offers a comfortable pace of life close to nature, Washington DC's bustling environment and networking opportunities in various global sectors present a thrilling yet demanding new lifestyle. Parks like Rock Creek offer a break from city life, but the accessible vast landscapes of Salinas will be missed.

Salinas vs. Washington DC Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is crucial to getting a feel for any new city. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salinas, CA, and Washington DC, DC, to help you better understand your culinary options as you plan your move. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply love exploring local dishes, this guide will offer valuable insights.

Salinas
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Artichokes
Half-Smoke
Most popular meat dish
Tripas Tacos
Mumbo Sauce on Chicken Wings
Most popular street food item
Street Tacos
Jumbo Slice Pizza
Most popular vegan food
Grilled Artichokes
Vegan Soul Food
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Le Diplomate
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Washington DC, the diverse food scene reflects its multicultural population. Head to U Street for a taste of the iconic half-smoke from Ben's Chili Bowl, a DC staple. For vegan enthusiasts, the city offers a variety of options including vegan soul food, with neighborhoods like Shaw and Adams Morgan leading the charge in plant-based dining. The vibrant street food culture, highlighted by an abundance of food trucks around the National Mall and Capitol Hill, offers everything from Jumbo Slice Pizza to international cuisines. For a fine dining experience that captures the essence of Washington DC, consider making reservations at Zaytinya or Le Diplomate, which showcase the city's sophisticated culinary prowess.

Salinas vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Food is central to feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Salinas and Washington DC aims to ease your transition by guiding you to familiar flavors in your new locale. Explore these comparisons to discover your next favorite eatery.

SalinasWashington DCWhat You'll Love
Giorgio's Italian GrillFiola MareHigh-end Italian, focused on seafood
Salinas City BBQFederalist PigAcclaimed BBQ with a diverse menu
Eagle RestaurantBad SaintSmall, popular spot with unique dishes
First AwakeningsFounding FarmersFarm-to-table American comfort food
PatriaZaytinyaOffers a mix of Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese
Gino's Fine Italian FoodOsteria MoriniWaterfront Italian with rustic charm
Taqueria JaliscoEl Sol Restaurante & TequileriaAuthentic Mexican cuisine
Monterey Coast BrewingRight Proper Brewing CompanyBrewpub with unique ales
La Casa del SazónMezcalero Cocina MexicanaKnown for its vibrant flavors
Ellie's Great American DinerTed's BulletinAmerican diner with a modern twist

Upon arriving in Washington DC, you'll find that the city's dining scene mirrors the rich diversity and culinary excellence you cherished in Salinas. Fiola Mare offers an unmatched Italian seafood dining experience that might remind you of Giorgio's Italian Grill's fine offerings, albeit with a more pronounced focus on marine cuisine. Barbecue enthusiasts will feel at home at Federalist Pig, where the smoke-infused flavors are reminiscent of Salinas City BBQ's hearty, southern-style meals. For those early risers who miss the homely breakfasts at First Awakenings, Founding Farmers provides a rustic, comforting farm-to-table experience that captivates with its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This comparative guide aims not just to introduce you to new spots but to bridge your fond memories of Salinas with the vibrant, eclectic food scene waiting for you in Washington DC.

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Ready to start your move?

Salinas vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, the real estate market is a crucial element to explore. Understand how Salinas and Washington DC compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle to make an informed decision.

Salinas
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch
Federal and Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most Popular Items Mentioned in Real Estate Listing
Spacious backyards
Proximity to Metro, historical landmarks

In comparing Salinas and Washington DC, it's clear that their real estate landscapes cater to different lifestyles. Washington DC scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, reflecting its dense, city-oriented atmosphere where amenities are often within walking distance. Properties in DC frequently highlight their close proximity to the Metro and historical landmarks, adding to the city's allure for those seeking a vibrant urban experience. Conversely, Salinas, with its ranch-style homes, offers more spacious living options and is better suited for those in search of a quieter, more suburban environment. The preference for spacious backyards in Salinas versus the demand for access to public transport and historical sites in Washington DC showcases the contrasting living experiences between these two locations.

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.

Salinas vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When relocating from Salinas, CA to Washington DC, DC, adapting to a new climate can be challenging. Understanding how the weather varies between Salinas and Washington DC is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect and plan accordingly.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

70°F / 55°F
89°F / 71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

62°F / 44°F
47°F / 29°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15
40
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
15.5


Moving from the mild, temperate climate of Salinas to the more extreme seasonal changes in Washington DC necessitates adjustments, especially in wardrobe and home maintenance. Salinas enjoys a comfortable, moderate climate year-round, with cool winters and mild summers, keeping the need for heavy clothing minimal. Conversely, Washington DC experiences hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, necessitating a more diverse wardrobe and possibly different home heating and cooling solutions. Additionally, being prepared for Washington DC's higher annual rainfall and potential for snow compared to Salinas's drier conditions will ensure you're not caught off guard by the weather. The difference in natural disasters, such as the risk of earthquakes in Salinas versus blizzards and hurricanes in Washington DC, also highlights the importance of understanding and preparing for the specific environmental risks associated with your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Salinas, CA to Washington DC, DC, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison aims to provide a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of Salinas versus Washington DC’s money and finance metrics, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Salinas
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$80,154
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
136.4
140.1
State Income Tax
9.3
8.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
0.56
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
6.00
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Retail
Government, Professional Services, Tourism
Affluence
moderate
high
Poverty
high
moderate
Homelessness
visible
concerning

Moving from Salinas to Washington DC will bring significant changes in your financial environment. For instance, although the average household income is higher in Washington DC, the cost of living index also rises, indicating that your income may not stretch as far as you'd hope. The difference in state and sales taxes between the two could impact your disposable income, with Washington DC offering a slightly less burdened tax scenario compared to California's high taxes. Understanding the dominant industries can help you gauge job market prospects. Moreover, social factors such as levels of poverty and homelessness also play into the overall living experience, underscoring the importance of considering a broad spectrum of economic indicators when planning your move.

Salinas vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Salinas, CA to Washington DC, it's helpful to understand the different atmospheres you'll be encountering, especially regarding the political and religious makeup of each area. This comparison focuses on providing a bold comparison of the politics between Salinas & Washington DC and the religious beliefs of their residents, offering a concise overview to aid in your transition.

Salinas
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Lean Liberal
Strongly Liberal
Local Politics
City Council format, City of Salinas City Council
Mayor-Council format, DC Council
Religion
Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence
Religiously diverse, though less religious overall

Understanding the political and religious landscapes of Salinas and Washington DC helps paint a picture of the ideological and cultural shifts you might experience. Salinas leans liberal but doesn't quite match the intensity of political engagement and liberal ideology that characterizes Washington DC, where the local politics operate on a Mayor-Council format, indicating a different approach to governance compared to Salinas' City Council format. The religious makeup in both cities is diverse, yet Salinas has a more pronounced Catholic presence, which contrasts with Washington DC's broader spectrum of beliefs and generally lower religious adherence. This context is crucial as it emphasizes the diversity and political dynamics you will navigate, enriching your societal understanding as you make your move.

Salinas vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Salinas, CA to Washington DC brings about a significant change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Salinas & Washington DC aims to give you a clear understanding of what to expect as you adapt to your new city.

Salinas
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
23
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Difficult
Easier

In Salinas, the average commute time is shorter and traffic congestion is less intense, making driving a comfortable option for many. However, the city's public transit system scores lower, indicating that getting around without a car might be challenging. On the other hand, Washington DC's robust public transit options, including the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), make it much easier to commute without a car. With higher traffic congestion, relying on public transit can be a more efficient and less stressful way to navigate the city. These differences highlight the importance of considering your lifestyle and transportation preferences when moving between these two cities.

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