Best Washington DC to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,909 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Washington DC to Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 Washington DC compared to Oakland. 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.
Best Washington DC to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Mic's Moving | 9.60 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.45 | 9.39 | Active |
| 5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.90 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Washington DC to Oakland?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,909 miles from Washington DC, DC to Oakland, CA will cost on average $4,255 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Oakland move is roughly $10,291. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,852 | 300 ft³ | $9.51 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,255 | 450 ft³ | $9.46 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,054 | 750 ft³ | $9.41 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,291 | 1100 ft³ | $9.36 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,889 | 1600 ft³ | $9.31 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,660 | 1800 ft³ | $9.26 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Bookstore Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
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.
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.
Washington DC vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison highlighting the Washington DC, DC & Oakland, CA local neighborhoods . This guide aims to match you with a new neighborhood in Oakland that feels like home, using your favorite Washington DC neighborhood as a baseline.
| Washington DC | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Rockridge | Vibrant retail and dining |
| Capitol Hill | Piedmont Avenue | Historical charm, lively commercial area |
| Georgetown | Montclair Village | Upscale, boutique shopping |
| Adams Morgan | Temescal | Diverse cuisine, artsy vibe |
| Logan Circle | Grand Lake | Cultural hub, weekend market |
| Columbia Heights | Fruitvale | Vibrant, diverse community |
| Shaw | Uptown | Nightlife, entertainment venues |
| Navy Yard | Jack London Square | Waterfront dining and activities |
| Cleveland Park | Glenview | Family-friendly, serene environment |
| Petworth | Dimond District | Strong community feel, park access |
If you're enchanted by Georgetown's historic architecture and exclusive boutiques, Montclair Village in Oakland will likely resonate with you, boasting a collection of unique shops and cafes amidst leafy streets. For those who thrive in the bustling, diverse atmosphere of Adams Morgan, Temescal offers an eclectic mix of eateries and indie shops, emphasizing community engagement and local art. Meanwhile, lovers of the waterfront and maritime activities of Navy Yard will find Jack London Square's harbor-side restaurants, canoe clubs like California Canoe & Kayak, and the iconic Jack London Square itself, an appealing new haunt. This guide aims not just to find a new neighborhood but to rediscover the comforts of home in the architecture, parks, and community spirit of Oakland.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Oakland
Moving across the country from Washington DC, DC to Oakland, CA presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. To help you weigh these factors, we've compiled comparative charts that honestly reflect the good and bad aspects of such a relocation. This comparison aims to provide clarity and assist in making an informed decision about this significant change.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Humid summers
- Dense traffic
- Political saturation
Oakland, CA- More affordable housing
- Milder climate
- Improved public transit
- Diverse cultural scene
Oakland, CA- Less historical sites
- Fewer museums
- Less political presence
- Different culinary scene
Washington DC, DC- Rich history
- Extensive museums
- Political center
- Global cuisine
When moving from Washington DC to Oakland, you'll transition from a city known for its sweltering summers to a region boasting a milder, more temperate climate, allowing for outdoor activities year-round. Oakland offers a respite from the dense traffic of DC, with its efficient public transit options like the BART, making commuting more manageable. The city's diverse cultural scene is reflected in its various neighborhoods, such as the bustling Uptown Oakland, with its array of restaurants, craft breweries, and art galleries, like the notable Oakland Museum of California. While you might miss the extensive historical sites and museums of the nation's capital, Oakland’s rich cultural tapestry, from the historic Jack London Square to the serene beauty of Redwood Regional Park, offers its own unique set of experiences and attractions.
Washington DC vs. Oakland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Oakland to help you understand the food scene in the city where you're moving. Since food is an important part of local culture, this comparison will provide insights into what living in your new city will be like.
- Ben's Chili Bowl
- Zaytinya
- minibar by José Andrés
- Brown Sugar Kitchen
- Commis
- Shakewell
Washington DC boasts a unique blend of global cuisines, highlighted by the iconic half-smoke, a local interpretation of a hot dog found at Ben's Chili Bowl. Mumbo sauce, a mysterious sweet and tangy sauce, is another must-try, typically served with chicken wings in various eateries across the city. In contrast, Oakland's food scene is highlighted by its Oakland-style BBQ, with smoked brisket being a standout meat dish. Vegan food is on the rise in both cities, but Oakland's creativity shines with jackfruit tacos, a popular plant-based option. The city's taco trucks, found in neighborhoods like Fruitvale, exemplify Oakland's vibrant street food scene. Meanwhile, Washington DC's health conscious offerings and burgeoning food truck scene cater to a diverse palate, from Capitol Hill to Shaw. Moving to Oakland, you'll find a passionate food scene embracing sustainability and innovation, evident in restaurants like Brown Sugar Kitchen and Commis, which are deeply rooted in the city's culture and community.
Washington DC vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a vital role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to help you find your new favorite Oakland eateries by using Washington DC as a guide , ensuring a smooth culinary transition during your move.
| Washington DC | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Mägo | Rustic, refined ambiance with French flair |
| Bad Saint | Lucky Three Seven | Bold flavors, unique Filipino dishes |
| Rose's Luxury | Commis | High-level dining with a cozy, innovative touch |
| Zaytinya | Oasis Food Market | Authentic Mediterranean in a casual setting |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Wood Tavern | American cuisine, emphasis on artisan ingredients |
| Beneath the Streets | The Wolf | Offers an underground dining vibe, innovative menu |
| Fiola Mare | Lungomare | Waterfront view, impeccable Italian seafood |
| Maydan | Bissap Baobab | Vibrant fusion of Middle Eastern and African cuisine |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Rockridge Grill | Classic surf and turf with a local twist |
| Komi | Shakewell | Mediterranean inspired, creative and modern dishes |
By exploring Mägo, you'll discover a remarkable resemblance to Le Diplomate, albeit with a unique Oakland twist, offering an immersive dining experience reminiscent of the French-inspired ambiance yet distinctly Californian in spirit and flavor. Meanwhile, venturing into Lucky Three Seven unveils a treasure trove of Filipino delights that mirror the memorable experiences of Bad Saint, albeit through Oakland's vibrant and diverse culinary lens. On the higher end, Commis presents itself as a beacon of culinary innovation, much like Rose's Luxury. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a constantly evolving menu, Commis captures the essence of what makes fine dining truly memorable, delivering an experience steeped in luxury and creativity that aligns closely with the high standards gastronomes have come to appreciate in Washington DC.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Washington DC and Oakland aims to illuminate key aspects of housing such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Such insights can greatly inform your relocation decisions.
Understanding the housing market nuances between Washington DC and Oakland helps you grasp what to expect in terms of living experience and costs. While Oakland generally has a higher median home price, the cost of renting is slightly less than in DC. Washington DC boasts a rich collection of Colonial and Federal-style homes, reflecting its historical significance, whereas Oakland takes pride in its Victorian and Craftsman architecture, offering a distinct aesthetic charm. Moreover, both cities score high on urban lifestyle; however, Washington DC edges out with better walkability and bikeability, likely due to its meticulously planned streets and abundance of bike lanes. If urban exploration and ease of getting around are higher on your priority list, DC might suit you better. But for those drawn to unique architectural styles and proximity to natural landscapes, Oakland's real estate offerings might prove more enticing.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA
1. Rockridge : You'll love Rockridge for its abundance of green spaces and pet-friendly cafes that welcome both you and your furry friend.
2. Temescal : Temescal is ideal with its vibrant community and pet-friendly markets where four-legged pals are frequent visitors.
3. Montclair : In Montclair, you'll find numerous parks and trails perfect for daily walks and plenty of pet-friendly establishments.
Washington DC vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Washington DC, DC to Oakland, CA, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences in climate you should expect, helping you prepare for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Washington DC and Oakland offer vibrant lifestyles, their climates differ significantly. Washington DC experiences hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, whereas Oakland enjoys a more temperate climate with mild winters and dry summers. This means you can expect fewer extreme weather days in Oakland, more sunshine, and no snow. However, the natural disaster risks shift from storms and some flooding in Washington DC to earthquakes and wildfires in Oakland. Air quality in Oakland is generally better, benefitting from the coastal breezes that keep the air fresher. Adjusting to the weather in Oakland will involve getting used to milder temperatures and planning for different types of natural disasters.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Oakland
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison focuses on Washington DC and Oakland to help you grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and income might change. This knowledge is key to preparing for your relocation.
While both Washington DC and Oakland offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, they differ significantly in financial landscapes. Although the average household income is higher in DC, the cost of living and taxes in Oakland also present unique challenges and opportunities. For instance, the property tax rate in Oakland is higher, yet the state income tax can vary widely, potentially affecting your take-home pay. Moreover, the presence of technology and healthcare industries in Oakland suggests a dynamic job market, contrasting with DC's government and education-focused economy. Understanding these nuances is crucial as they directly impact your daily life and financial well-being after the move.
Washington DC vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Washington DC, DC to Oakland, CA brings not just a change in scenery, but also a notable shift in the community's ethos. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Washington DC & Oakland, helping you better understand the social climate you’re about to immerse yourself in.
When transitioning from Washington DC to Oakland, you'll find both cities share a strong Democratic leaning politically, ensuring a somewhat familiar political environment. However, the nature of local politics can feel quite different. In Washington DC, the presence and influence of the federal government permeate the local political scene, whereas in Oakland, local government actions and community activism play a pivotal role in shaping policies and public opinion. Regarding religious makeup, while Christianity is predominant in both cities, Oakland boasts a more significant portion of non-religious residents, reflecting its diverse and inclusive community. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of Oakland, potentially offering you a broader spectrum of communal and spiritual connections.
Washington DC vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Oakland, CA, means adapting to new daily commutes and traffic conditions. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Oakland is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like in these two very different urban environments.
In Washington DC, public transit is highly robust, boasting an impressive score that reflects the efficiency of the WMATA's services, including the Metro and buses. This makes living in the city without a car much more feasible, particularly if your activities are concentrated within the city limits or nearby suburbs. Oakland, while also offering public transit options like BART and buses, has a lower public transit availability score, indicating that residents might find themselves more reliant on cars for certain commutes. However, Oakland's milder traffic congestion compared to DC's denser traffic patterns may make driving a more pleasant experience. Overall, your commute in Oakland may be shorter on average, but the city's lesser dependency on public transit could mean having a car is more of a necessity than a convenience.
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