Best Washington DC to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 245 mile move from DC to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Washington DC to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Pittsburgh. 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 Washington DC to Pittsburgh Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
2Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
3Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
4Ap Pro Moving Llc9.459.39Active
5Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 245 miles from Washington DC, DC to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $1,691 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Pittsburgh move is roughly $4,040. 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$1,140300 ft³$3.80
1 Bedroom$1,691450 ft³$3.76
2 Bedrooms$2,787750 ft³$3.72
3 Bedrooms$4,0401100 ft³$3.67
4 Bedrooms$5,8091600 ft³$3.63
5+ Bedrooms$6,4591800 ft³$3.59
*Please note: These DC to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & Pennsylvania. 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 DC to PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Pittsburgh Movers

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

Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,121+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 343+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 310+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (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.

Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, getting to know your new city can seem daunting. What if you could compare it with what you already know? This guide is designed to ease that transition, offering a point of reference between Washington DC, DC & Pittsburgh, PA neighborhoods . By identifying similar neighborhoods, you'll quickly feel more at home in your new surroundings.

Washington DCPittsburghHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleShadysideVibrant nightlife and shopping
GeorgetownSquirrel HillUpscale and historic feel
Capitol HillOaklandCultural heart with historic sites
Navy YardStrip DistrictIndustrial chic with waterfront access
Logan CircleLawrencevilleArtistic spirit and community vibe
ShawBloomfieldLively and diverse community
Columbia HeightsEast LibertyRevitalized and eclectic
Adams MorganSouth Side FlatsDynamic nightlife and dining
NoMaNorth ShoreModern development by the water
U Street CorridorStrip DistrictHistoric buildings and eclectic marketplaces

For those who love the diverse culinary scene and bustling nightlife of Adams Morgan, Pittsburgh's South Side Flats will be particularly appealing, where restaurants and bars line East Carson Street. Fans of the historic and upscale ambiance of Georgetown will find a similar atmosphere in Squirrel Hill, noted for its charming business district and beautiful homes. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts drawn to Logan Circle's vibrant community will be charmed by Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh's hub for artists and unique boutiques. Not to mention, individuals moving from the Navy Yard in DC, who are used to waterfront activities and modern living, will likely appreciate the similar industrial chic vibe found in Pittsburgh’s Strip District, where renovated warehouses meet contemporary dining and shopping.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Pittsburgh

Moving from one city to another can be a substantial change. With this comparison, we aim to shed light on the attributes of both Washington DC, DC, and Pittsburgh, PA, offering an honest reflection of moving from Washington DC, DC to Pittsburgh, PA . Our two charts meticulously detail the pros and cons of relocating to help you make an informed decision about this big move.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • High crime rates
  • Political hustle
  • Densely populated
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Lesser traffic
  • Lower crime rates
  • More laid-back vibe
  • More green spaces
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less transit options
  • Fewer museums
  • More localized cuisine
  • Smaller job market
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Extensive public transport
  • Abundance of museums
  • Global cuisine
  • Powerful job market

When moving from Washington DC, DC, to Pittsburgh, PA, you'll exchange the bustling, high-cost environment for Pittsburgh's more affordable and spacious lifestyle. While you might miss DC's extensive metro system and cultural diversity, including its world-class museums like the Smithsonian and a multitude of dining options ranging from Ethiopian to Salvadoran cuisine, Pittsburgh offers its unique charm. The city is home to beautiful green spaces such as Schenley Park, a vibrant arts scene with institutions like the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and unique dining experiences at places like Pampeana Empanadas. Moreover, neighborhoods like Shadyside and Squirrel Hill offer a mix of urban living with a community feel, along with thriving local businesses and restaurants, such as Primanti Bros, known for its iconic sandwiches. Making Pittsburgh not just a place to live, but a place to thrive in your own way.

Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Pittsburgh recognizing that food plays a critical role in understanding the cultural atmosphere of a new city. By examining the food scene in both areas, you'll gain insight into what dining and culinary experiences await in your new home.

Washington DC
Pittsburgh
Most iconic local food item
Half-smoke
Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Mumbo Sauce Wings
Pierogies
Most popular street food item
Food Trucks
Pittsburgh Popcorn
Most popular vegan food
Impossible Burger
Seitan Sandwich
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • Zaytinya
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • Meat & Potatoes
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Washington DC, the food scene is vibrant and influenced by international cuisines, as seen in the popularity of Zaytinya's Mediterranean dishes. The half-smoke, a local delicacy available at Ben's Chili Bowl, is a must-try. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh offers a unique culinary experience with its famous Primanti Bros. sandwich, featuring meat, coleslaw, and French fries all between two slices of bread - a hearty meal reflecting the city's blue-collar roots. Pamela's Diner and Meat & Potatoes highlight Pittsburgh's comfort food and its evolving foodie scene, notable in neighborhoods like the Strip District and Lawrenceville, where dining options abound for every palate.

Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering local culinary gems is crucial for feeling at home. This comparison charts Washington DC restaurants versus their Pittsburgh counterparts, guiding you to find new favorite spots that echo your familiar haunts. Whether you seek haute cuisine, a casual bite, or something uniquely foodie, we've got you covered.

Washington DCPittsburghWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomatePoulet BleuFrench bistro vibe and comprehensive wine list
Rose's LuxuryCureInnovative and locally sourced cuisine
ZaytinyaSmallman GalleyVaried and innovative small plates
Ben's Chili BowlFranktuaryFamous for chili and unique hotdogs
2 AmysDinetteArtisanal pizzas with a focus on quality ingredients
Fiola MareMonterey Bay Fish GrottoUpscale seafood with a view
Little SerowPusadee’s GardenAuthentic Thai in a picturesque setting
Bluejacket BreweryEast End Brewing CompanyCraft brewery with creative seasonal releases
Bad SaintTakoFusion tacos with a unique twist
The DabneyWhitfieldFarm-to-table ethos in a trendy setting

For food lovers making the move from Washington DC to Pittsburgh, transitioning your palate can be an exciting adventure. Le Diplomate and Poulet Bleu share that quintessential French bistro feel, offering a slice of Paris in their respective cities. Fans of innovative, locally sourced dishes will appreciate the culinary finesse found at both Rose's Luxury and Cure, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience with every visit. Meanwhile, those craving iconic American flavors with a twist will find solace in Franktuary's unique hotdogs, reminiscent of the comfort Ben's Chili Bowl offers. Lastly, for beer aficionados, transitioning from Bluejacket Brewery to East End Brewing Company means continuing to enjoy craft beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.

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Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most crucial considerations when planning a move. Understanding how Washington DC and Pittsburgh stack up against each other in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more can significantly impact your decision-making process. Let's dive into the specifics to help you make an informed choice.

Washington DC
Pittsburgh
Typical Architecture Style
Federal and Victorian
Gothic and Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to monuments and government buildings
Views of the rivers and cultural districts

When comparing Washington DC to Pittsburgh, you'll notice a stark difference in housing costs. The median home price in DC is significantly higher than in Pittsburgh, making Pittsburgh a more affordable option for many. Moreover, the architecture in Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of gothic and modern styles, reflecting its rich industrial history, compared to the federal and Victorian styles prevalent in DC. Despite DC's higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, Pittsburgh boasts unique charm with its river views and cultural districts, making it an attractive alternative for those seeking a balance between city living and affordability.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Shadyside : You’ll find this neighborhood’s walkability and abundance of pet-friendly patios make it an ideal spot for both you and your furry friends.

2. Lawrenceville : With its numerous parks and dog-friendly cafes, Lawrenceville is a perfect place if you’re looking for a vibrant community that welcomes pets.

3. Squirrel Hill : This neighborhood offers a variety of local parks and green spaces, ensuring you have ample opportunities for outdoor activities with your pets.

Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Pittsburgh will compare to what you're accustomed to in Washington DC. This comparison will help you prepare for differences in climate and seasonal changes, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Washington DC
Pittsburgh
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Flooding
Snowstorms, Flooding
Air Quality
Good to Moderate
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 71°F
82°F / 62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 28°F
37°F / 21°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

39.74
38.19
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

15.4
41.9


While both Washington DC and Pittsburgh experience a mix of hot summers and cold winters, you'll notice a significant difference in winter temperatures and snowfall. Pittsburgh generally has colder winters with more snow, which might require adjustments in your winter wardrobe and driving habits. Notably, Pittsburgh sees fewer sunny days annually, which could affect your outdoor activities and overall mood. The air quality and top seasonal allergies are relatively similar in both cities, so if you have allergies, your precautions will likely remain the same.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to grasp the financial landscape you're stepping into. This comparison will shine a light on key financial differences between Washington DC and Pittsburgh, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new life. From income to living costs, understanding these aspects is crucial for a smooth transition.

Washington DC
Pittsburgh
Avg. Household Income
$90,088
$57,821
Cost of Living Index
140.1
91.5
State Income Tax
4.00 - 8.95
3.07 (flat)
Avg. Property Tax
0.56
2.01
Avg. Sales Tax
6.00
7.00
Top 3 Industries
Government, Professional Services, Education
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Considerable
Homelessness
Noticeable
Moderate

Moving from Washington DC to Pittsburgh, you'll notice significant financial adjustments. Although the average household income is lower in Pittsburgh, the cost of living index dramatically favors this city, providing affordability not seen in the capital. This, combined with Pennsylvania’s flat state income tax rate, can offer some financial ease, despite higher property taxes. Conversely, while Washington DC boasts a high affluence level and major government and professional services industries, Pittsburgh's scene is remarkably diverse, with healthcare, education, and technology leading its economy. Understanding these nuances can help you craft a comfortable life in your new home.

Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison

This guide helps you gain a quick understanding of the comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Washington DC & Pittsburgh. Let's explore what to expect in terms of political inclination and religious orientation in your new home compared to where you're coming from.

Washington DC
Pittsburgh
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Leans Democratic
Local Politics
DC Council
Pittsburgh City Government
Religion
Diverse, with no single dominant affiliation
Historically Catholic, but increasingly diverse

When moving from Washington DC to Pittsburgh, you'll find both cities share a Democratic lean in their political makeup, although DC exhibits a more pronounced inclination. The governance in your new city is overseen by the Pittsburgh City Government, similar to the DC Council but with its own local policies and initiatives reflecting the needs and desires of Pittsburgh residents. Religion in both cities portrays a tapestry of beliefs. While Washington DC showcases an eclectic religious scene without a predominant faith, Pittsburgh has a strong historical connection to Catholicism which has evolved to encompass a broad religious diversity over time. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate and embrace your new community more effectively.

Washington DC vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving between cities can dramatically change your daily commute and traffic experiences. This guide is designed to help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Pittsburgh, offering insights into what your new daily journey might look like.

Washington DC
Pittsburgh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34.4
26.7
Traffic Congestion
7.5 out of 10
5.3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, notably easier
Possible, but more challenging

In Washington DC, you'll likely face a longer commute time and more traffic congestion than in Pittsburgh, but the city's robust public transit system, including the Metro and buses, makes navigating the city without a car significantly easier. On the contrary, Pittsburgh, while lighter on traffic and with a shorter average commute time, has a less extensive public transit system. Relying on the Port Authority of Allegheny County, residents might find themselves more dependent on a car than they would in DC.

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