Best Grand Rapids to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 657 mile move from Michigan to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Grand Rapids 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3MASS Movers9.049.15Authorized For Property, HHG
4Kingsley Moving Systems8.999.19Authorized For HHG
5Powell Relocation Group8.907.27Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Washington DC?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 657 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $2,340 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Washington DC move is roughly $5,610. 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$1,575300 ft³$5.25
1 Bedroom$2,340450 ft³$5.20
2 Bedrooms$3,862750 ft³$5.15
3 Bedrooms$5,6101100 ft³$5.10
4 Bedrooms$8,0801600 ft³$5.05
5+ Bedrooms$9,0001800 ft³$5.00
*Please note: These Michigan to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & 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 MI to DC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Grand Rapids guide.

Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids 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
MASS Movers Logo

MASS Movers

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 458+ data points

Lansing, MI, 48910

About MASS Movers

MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...

Services

  • Packing Service
  • Large Item Moving
  • Small to Medium Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3333210 / 1062576

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved32,500 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo

Kingsley Moving Systems

Superb8.99/10
based on 533+ data points

610 Detroit St

Lansing, MI, 48912

About Kingsley Moving Systems

Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Interstate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1890987 / 682343

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved140,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Powell Relocation Group Logo

Powell Relocation Group

Superb8.90/10
based on 548+ data points

4937 Starr St SE

Grand Rapids, MI, 49546

About Powell Relocation Group

Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not need to...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Services
  • Corporate Relocation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

261884 / 176235

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers50
Total Annual Miles Moved900,000 (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.

Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when leaving a familiar neighborhood behind. To ease the transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Washington DC, DC . This comparison aims to help you find a new home in Washington DC that resonates with the community you love in Grand Rapids.

Grand RapidsWashington DCHow They're Similar
EastownDupont CircleVibrant, artsy vibe
Heritage HillCapitol HillHistoric homes, community feel
East Grand RapidsGeorgetownUpscale, family-friendly
Heartside DistrictU Street CorridorEnergetic, diverse nightlife
Fulton HeightsAdams MorganEclectic, with a mix of cultures
CrestonBloomingdaleRising popularity, community-focused
MidtownShawHistoric, with modern touch
Ottawa HillsCleveland ParkGreen spaces, suburban feel in city
BeltlineNoMaEmerging, business-friendly
Westside ConnectionSouthwest WaterfrontDevelopment, waterfront living

If the cultural and artsy vibe of Eastown is what you love, Dupont Circle in Washington DC will captivate you with its similar atmosphere. Both neighborhoods are known for their vibrant scenes, dotted with galleries, live music, and eclectic dining options, such as the famed Teaism in Dupont Circle. On the other hand, the historic charm of Heritage Hill has its counterpart in Capitol Hill, where landmarks like the U.S. Capitol Building and quaint townhomes create a deeply communal feel. For those who enjoy the luxury and family-friendly environment of East Grand Rapids, Georgetown offers an unparalleled upscale experience with boutique shopping on M Street and waterfront dining. Meanwhile, the Heartside District's dynamic nightlife finds its match in the U Street Corridor, a historically rich area known for jazz clubs and diverse culinary offerings.

Things To Do background image

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 Grand Rapids to Washington DC

Moving from one place to another is always a blend of excitement and challenge. In this guide, we aim to provide an honest reflection on relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Washington DC, DC , illustrating how this journey unfolds. Through carefully curated charts, we will compare the cons of Grand Rapids with the pros of Washington DC and vice versa, giving you a balanced perspective on your upcoming move.

CONs
PROs
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lower Job Opportunities
  • Smaller Cultural Scene
  • Less Public Transit
  • Colder Winters
  • Lesser-known Restaurants
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Diverse Career Options
  • Rich Cultural Heritage
  • Extensive Public Transit
  • Milder Winters
  • World-class Dining
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Fast-paced Lifestyle
  • Traffic Congestion
  • Expensive Nightlife
  • Urban Landscape
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • More Affordable Housing
  • Friendly Community
  • Easy Road Trips
  • Amazing Local Breweries
  • Natural Surroundings

Washington DC's rich cultural heritage is embodied by iconic institutions like the Smithsonian museums and the National Gallery of Art, providing endless educational and leisure opportunities. The city's extensive public transit system, including the WMATA Metro and bus services, makes navigating this bustling metropolis a breeze compared to Grand Rapids. Moreover, DC's dining scene is a gastronomic delight, featuring everything from historic establishments like Ben's Chili Bowl to high-end eateries like Minibar by José Andrés. Although the cost of living in DC is higher, the quality of life, career opportunities, and cultural experiences offer a vibrant and dynamic environment that makes the move worthwhile.

Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Food Guide

When considering a move, it's crucial to grasp the essence of local living through its cuisine. We've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Washington DC to help you better understand the gastronomical landscape of your new home.

Grand Rapids
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Wet Burrito
Half-Smoke
Most popular meat dish
Pork Sandwich
Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings
Most popular street food item
Taco Trucks
Food Trucks Offering Various Cuisines
Most popular vegan food
Black Bean Burger
Vegan Ethiopian Dishes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • The Melting Pot
    • Sanchez Bistro
    • Rose's
    • Ben's Chili Bowl
    • Zaytinya
    • Jaleo
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
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🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Grand Rapids, the wet burrito reigns supreme as the iconic local food item, best enjoyed in neighborhood staples like Sanchez Bistro. However, when moving to Washington DC, prepare to embrace the half-smoke, a local twist on the classic American hotdog, famously served at Ben's Chili Bowl. The capital's abundance of food trucks and its vegan-friendly Ethiopian offerings reflect its diverse and inclusive food scene. For vegan fare, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill offer an array of options, underscoring Washington DC's higher vegan friendly rating. Culinary adventurers moving from Grand Rapids to Washington DC will find themselves at the heart of a vibrant foodie scene, surrounded by a plethora of unique dining experiences and health-conscious choices.

Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when craving the comforts of your favorite local eateries. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to bridge the culinary gap between Grand Rapids and Washington DC, guiding you towards your next favorite dining spots by drawing parallels with those you already love.

Grand RapidsWashington DCWhat You'll Love
GroveLe DiplomateBoth offer an elevated dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
San Chez BistroZaytinyaLike San Chez, Zaytinya offers a shareable tapas-style menu, but with a Mediterranean twist.
The Chop HouseRPM SteakFor those who appreciate a premium steak dining experience, RPM Steak is Washington DC's answer to The Chop House.
Maru Sushi & GrillSushi TaroOffers a comparable high-end sushi experience, focusing on traditional Japanese techniques and flavors.
Two Scotts BarbecueFederalist PigBoth places are known for their authentic, high-quality BBQ dishes, with a focus on smoked meats.
Madcap CoffeeCompass CoffeeEach is a local favorite for their dedication to the craft of coffee, boasting unique blends and single-origin roasts.
Stella's LoungeDuPont CircleA nightlife spot with a similarly eclectic vibe and a great selection of drinks and casual eats.
Amore Trattoria ItalianaOsteria MoriniBoth restaurants celebrate Italian cuisine with a passion, offering dishes that are both authentic and inventive.
Donkey TaqueriaEl ReyServing up a lively atmosphere with delicious tacos, El Rey is the go-to for a similar vibe to Donkey Taqueria.
Marie Catrib'sBusboys and PoetsBoth are socially conscious spots offering a comforting mix of café and restaurant dishes with a focus on community.

Discovering a new city's culinary scene can be a thrilling adventure, and with Washington DC's diverse dining options, you're sure to find places that resonate with your taste just like in Grand Rapids. For instance, if you've enjoyed the refined, farm-to-table experience at Grove in Grand Rapids, you'll be delighted by the Parisian flair and equally commitment to fresh, local ingredients at Le Diplomate in DC. Similarly, barbecue aficionados who relished the slow-cooked delights at Two Scotts Barbecue will find a kindred spirit in the smoky offerings of Federalist Pig. Embrace these new epicurean experiences as you settle into your new home, knowing that for every beloved restaurant you've left behind, there's a potential new favorite waiting to be discovered in Washington DC.

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Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a key factor in moving, crucial for understanding how your lifestyle might change. This comparison shines a light on the differences between Grand Rapids and Washington DC in terms of housing - cost, architecture, walkability, and more, giving you a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.

Grand Rapids
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Prairie, Mid-Century Modern
Federal, Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, family-friendly
Proximity to Metro, historic charm

While examining the living environments of Grand Rapids and Washington DC, it's intriguing to note the contrast in architectural styles and urban lifestyle offerings. Grand Rapids, with its prairie and mid-century modern homes, offers spacious yards catering to a family-friendly atmosphere. In contrast, Washington DC's housing is steeped in historic charm, featuring Federal and Victorian designs with real estate listings often touting proximity to the Metro. This difference not only highlights the diverse architectural heritage but also the urban lifestyle, where Washington DC scores higher in walkability and bikeability, appealing to those who prioritize a city-centric, active lifestyle.

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.

Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Grand Rapids, MI to Washington DC, DC, understanding how the weather differs between these two locations is crucial. This comparison will provide key insights into Grand Rapids versus Washington DC's climate, helping you adjust to your new environment more seamlessly.

Grand Rapids
Washington DC
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Hurricanes, Heatwaves
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 61°F
88°F / 71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31°F / 18°F
47°F / 28°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38
40
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

74
15


The weather in Washington DC tends to be warmer with more sunshine compared to Grand Rapids, making it a significant shift for those used to cooler climates. While both cities face their unique set of natural disasters, their distinct seasons present different challenges and experiences, from the heavier snowfalls in Grand Rapids to the more humid, muggier summers in Washington DC. This can affect everything from your wardrobe choices to your daily comfort. Understanding these differences can help ease your transition and allow for better preparation as you start your new chapter.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison is aimed at shedding light on the financial implications of moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Washington DC, DC. By examining various economic factors, you'll gain insight into what to expect in terms of expenses and living standards.

Grand Rapids
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$59,596
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
90.7
140.1
State Income Tax
4.25
8.95
Avg. Property Tax
1.58
0.56
Avg. Sales Tax
6
6
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Health Care, Education
Government, Professional Services, Education
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Grand Rapids to Washington DC, you'll find a substantial increase in the cost of living, with Washington DC's index rated at 158 compared to Grand Rapids's more modest 90. This is a critical factor, considering the average household income in Washington DC is higher. This mirrors the cities’ differing economic landscapes, largely shaped by their dominant industries. As you transition, it's also important to note the stark contrast in state income tax rates and property taxes. While the burden of income tax is significantly higher in DC, property taxes lean favorably low, presenting a complex financial picture for potential homeowners. Additionally, while Washington DC exhibits a higher degree of affluence, it also faces considerable challenges with homelessness, an important societal issue to be aware of.

Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

This concise comparison aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the communities in Grand Rapids & Washington DC. This snapshot will help you understand the local populace's leanings and beliefs, offering insights into the cities you're moving from and to.

Grand Rapids
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Moderate, with a lean towards conservative
Strongly liberal
Local Politics
Republican influence, with close elections
Dominantly Democratic governance
Religion
Highly religious, protestant majority
Diverse, with a significant non-religious population

While Grand Rapids is known for its moderate political climate, often with a conservative tilt, Washington DC is a stronghold of liberal politics and Democratic governance. This shift means you'll likely notice a significant difference in political discourse and policy priorities between your old and new homes. Religion also plays a different role in daily life between the two; Grand Rapids has a prominent religious community, predominantly Protestant. In contrast, Washington DC's population is more religiously diverse, with a notable portion identifying as non-religious. Being aware of these disparities can aid in a smoother transition and adjustment to the community dynamics of your new home.

Grand Rapids vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another introduces a variety of changes, especially in your daily commute. Understanding the differences is crucial for a seamless transition. This guide provides a comparison to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Grand Rapids & Washington DC, ensuring you're well-prepared for your move.

Grand Rapids
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Yes

While Grand Rapids offers a relatively calm driving experience with an average commute time of 22 minutes and moderate traffic congestion, Washington DC presents a more challenging scenario with a higher average commute time of 30 minutes and greater congestion levels. Public transit availability is significantly better in Washington DC, rated at 9 out of 10, making it possible and often preferable to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. In contrast, getting around Grand Rapids without a car can be more challenging, reflecting the city's lower public transit rating. This comparison underscores the importance of considering your daily commute and transportation options when planning your move.

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