Best New York City to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from New York City to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 236 mile move from New York to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 71 New York City 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 JP Urban 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 New York City 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 New York City to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1JP Urban Moving9.869.78Authorized For HHG
2Metropolis Moving9.739.62Authorized For HHG
3Flex Moving and Storage9.709.74Authorized For Property, HHG
4Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
5Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from New York City to Washington DC?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 236 miles from New York City, NY to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,685 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to Washington DC move is roughly $4,024. 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$1,136300 ft³$3.79
1 Bedroom$1,685450 ft³$3.74
2 Bedrooms$2,776750 ft³$3.70
3 Bedrooms$4,0241100 ft³$3.66
4 Bedrooms$5,7861600 ft³$3.62
5+ Bedrooms$6,4331800 ft³$3.57
*Please note: These New York to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from New York & 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 NY to DC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to New York City guide.

Compare the 5 Best New York City to Washington DC Movers

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

JP Urban Moving Logo

JP Urban Moving

Exceptional9.86/10
based on 3,812+ data points

266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl

Brooklyn, NY, 11238

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...

Services

  • Local NYC Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving, Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2096754 / 882954

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Metropolis Moving Logo

Metropolis Moving

Exceptional9.73/10
based on 2,278+ data points

476 Jefferson St

Brooklyn, NY, 11237

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4277979 / 1662478

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Flex Moving and Storage Logo

Flex Moving and Storage

Exceptional9.70/10
based on 1,196+ data points

276 Greenpoint Ave 287, Suite

Brooklyn, NY, 11222

About Flex Moving and Storage

With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Long distance moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3610638 / 1229716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
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
4
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
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.

New York City vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, finding a new neighborhood that feels like home is crucial. This guide compares popular neighborhoods in New York City, NY & Washington DC, DC , helping you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline. We'll match top neighborhoods from New York City with their closest counterparts in Washington DC, focusing on their unique vibes, amenities, and community feel.

New York CityWashington DCHow They're Similar
WilliamsburgShawTrendy, vibrant nightlife
Upper East SideGeorgetownHistoric, upscale living
SoHoDupont CircleChic, artsy community
Greenwich VillageAdams MorganEclectic, youthful spirit
Brooklyn HeightsCapitol HillHistoric, charming streets
MidtownDowntownBusy, commercial hub
ChelseaLogan CircleTrendy, art-focused
Upper West SideCleveland ParkFamily-friendly, green spaces
East VillageU Street CorridorBohemian, live music
DUMBONoMaInnovative, waterfront development

In comparing neighborhoods, the cultural and social hubs of both cities shine through unique offerings. For instance, those drawn to the historic, upscale ambiance of the Upper East Side might find Georgetown's fusion of history and luxury alongside the Potomac River appealing. Georgetown is known for its cobblestone streets, high-end boutiques like Tory Burch, and dining options such as Fiola Mare, reflecting a similar blend of sophistication and charm. Meanwhile, the artsy energy and boutique shopping in SoHo find a parallel in Dupont Circle, where art galleries and eclectic coffee shops, such as Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café, create a vibrant community atmosphere. These comparisons offer just a glimpse into how each DC neighborhood matches its NYC counterpart, providing a smooth transition for those relocating and seeking a familiar yet distinct urban experience.

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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 New York City to Washington DC

Moving from one city to another brings a blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide a candid reflection on the transition from New York City, NY to Washington DC, DC, spotlighting both the favorable changes and potential drawbacks. Explore the nuanced shifts in lifestyle, cost of living, and cultural offerings through these comparative charts.

CONs
PROs
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Higher cost of living
  • Intense pace of life
  • Less green space
  • Noisy urban environment
  • Overcrowded public transit
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • More affordable housing
  • Slower, laid-back lifestyle
  • More parks and gardens
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Less crowded, cleaner transit
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • More subdued nightlife
  • Smaller food scene
  • Dependent on cars
  • Fewer job markets
  • Less diversity
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse food scene
  • Better public transit
  • More career opportunities
  • Cultural melting pot

Within these dynamics, the cultural and recreational offerings of each city stand out. New York’s Central Park and Washington’s Rock Creek Park offer green oases amid their bustling streets, while the High Line in New York and the National Mall in Washington host visitors seeking leisure and beauty in urban spaces. Washington DC’s burgeoning Capitol Hill and Georgetown areas contrast with New York’s iconic Manhattan borough, offering a comparative perspective on dining, shopping, and entertainment options. From New York’s renowned Broadway shows to DC’s significant museums like the Smithsonian, this transition is more than a relocation—it’s a lifestyle change that spans the spectrum of America’s rich urban tapestry.

New York City vs. Washington DC Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Washington DC, serving as a crucial part of the local culture and livability in both areas. Understanding the food scene is essential for anyone planning to relocate, providing insight into the diverse culinary offerings each city boasts.

New York City
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Pizza
Half-Smoke
Most popular meat dish
Pastrami on Rye
Peruvian Chicken
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Jumbo Slice Pizza
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Impossible Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Le Bernardin
  • Di Fara Pizza
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Le Diplomate
  • Rose's Luxury
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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Transitioning from New York City to Washington DC offers a unique shift in culinary experiences. While NYC is famous for its unbeatable pizza, such as those from Di Fara Pizza, and the quintessential pastrami on rye from Katz's Delicatessen, Washington DC introduces you to its iconic half-smoke available at places like Ben's Chili Bowl. The food truck scenes in both cities are vibrant, offering a wide range of cuisines, but in DC, you'll find a particular affection for jumbo slice pizza and Peruvian chicken, highlighting the city's love for diverse and international flavors. Whether exploring the vegan scene or indulging in local favorites, each city offers its distinctive taste and celebrated culinary landmarks worth exploring.

New York City vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering where to eat. This comparison of top restaurants from New York City to their equivalents in Washington DC will guide you in finding your next favorite spots, making the transition feel like a culinary adventure. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or casual eateries, this list will connect you with the best of what your new home has to offer.

New York CityWashington DCWhat You'll Love
Le BernardinPlumeRenowned for exquisite fine dining and an exceptional wine list
Shake ShackGood Stuff EateryFamous for gourmet burgers and hand-spun shakes
Di Fara PizzaPizzeria ParadisoKnown for wood-fired pizzas and a great beer selection
Joe’s ShanghaiDaumDaum
Katz's DelicatessenStachowski's MarketCelebrated for deli sandwiches and hearty meats
Per SeInn at Little WashingtonOffers an unforgettable fine dining experience in a cozy setting
CarboneFiola MareItalian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and elegant ambiance
Momofuku Noodle BarToki UndergroundA high-energy spot for innovative ramen and dumplings
The Halal GuysFalafel IncQuick and delicious Middle Eastern fare with a focus on falafel and gyros
Peter Luger Steak HouseBLT SteakOffers prime cuts of beef in an upscale, contemporary setting

For those who appreciate the artistic touch and complex flavors behind a perfectly prepared meal, Plume in Washington DC resonates with the elegance of New York City's Le Bernardin. Both restaurants offer an ambience that speaks to the connoisseur, alongside a meticulously curated wine list. When it comes to burgers and shakes, transitioning from Shake Shack to Good Stuff Eatery keeps the casual, high-quality fast-food spirit alive with their commitment to organic ingredients and craft burgers. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados will find a slice of New York at Pizzeria Paradiso, where the focus on wood-fired pies and artisanal toppings echoes the iconic offerings from Di Fara Pizza. Each comparison not only links you to familiar tastes but also introduces you to the rich and vibrant culinary scene that makes Washington DC an exciting place to call home.

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New York City vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, evaluating real estate in New York City versus Washington DC is crucial to understand where you might find your next home. This comparison delves into various aspects of housing, such as costs, architecture, and lifestyle, to help you make an informed decision.

New York City
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Art Deco, Beaux Arts
Colonial, Federal
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to subways, views
Historical significance, green spaces

While both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, New York City scores a perfect 10 in walkability, partly due to its extensive subway system and compact layout. In contrast, Washington DC offers a balance between city life and access to green spaces, such as the famous Rock Creek Park, which contributes to its appeal. Real estate listings in DC often highlight the city's historical neighborhoods and proximity to national landmarks. Meanwhile, NYC listings might focus on apartment views and how close certain properties are to subway stations, reflecting the city's fast-paced, vertical living environment. Understanding these nuances can help you decide which city's lifestyle suits you best.

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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.

New York City vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another brings about significant changes, not least of which is adjusting to new weather patterns. This comparison is designed to help you understand how the weather between New York City and Washington DC will differ, making your transition smoother.

New York City
Washington DC
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Nor'easters
Hurricanes, Heat Waves
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 69°F
89°F / 71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

39°F / 26°F
47°F / 28°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

49.9
40.8
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

25.8
15.5


While both New York City and Washington DC enjoy four distinct seasons, you'll notice that DC tends to be slightly warmer during the summer months with higher highs but similar lows compared to NYC. Furthermore, New York experiences more days of sunshine annually, which could affect one's daily mood and vitamin D intake. Interestingly, despite its warmer summers, DC gets significantly less snowfall in the winter than New York, a factor that could influence your outdoor activities and commuting habits during colder seasons. Both cities face their share of natural disasters, but the type and intensity can vary, impacting preparedness plans.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Washington DC

When considering a move from New York City, NY to Washington DC, DC, it's critical to dissect how shifting landscapes will impact your wallet. Grasping the nuances related to income, taxes, and overall cost of living ensures a smoother transition between these vibrant cities.

New York City
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$67,997
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
185.8
140.1
State Income Tax
4.0 - 8.82
4.0 - 8.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.88
0.56
Avg. Sales Tax
8.875
6.00
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Healthcare, Professional and Technical Services
Government, Professional and Business Services, Education and Health Services
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Highly affluent
Poverty
High
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

While both New York City and Washington DC command a reputation for high living costs, the data reveals differences that could influence your decision. For instance, the average household income in DC is significantly higher compared to NYC, potentially offsetting the high cost of living index. However, taxation plays a critical role in both locales, with DC having a slightly higher maximum state income tax rate but lower property and sales taxes, which can benefit long-term residents. Industry-wise, NYC's diversity offers opportunities in finance and healthcare, contrasting with DC's focus on government and professional services. Additionally, the economic landscape affects social issues, with NYC encountering higher poverty and homelessness rates compared to the moderately afflicted DC. These components are essential in not just evaluating the financial implications of your move but also understanding the socioeconomic environment you're entering.

New York City vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can bring about significant changes, not just in scenery but in the community around you. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents comparing New York City & Washington DC . It’s designed to help you understand the potential cultural shift you might experience in your new home.

New York City
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Liberal, with a strong Democratic presence
Highly Democratic
Local Politics
Competitive mayoral and city council elections
Focused on federal impact and city governance
Religion
Diverse, with Christianity and Judaism being prominent
A diverse blend, with a significant Christian community

While both New York City and Washington DC lean heavily Democratic in terms of political makeup, the political atmosphere can feel different. In New York City, there's a broad spectrum within the liberal demographic, spanning from moderate to very progressive views. Local politics can be fiercely contested, reflecting the city's diverse opinions. Washington DC, while also liberal, often focuses more on national politics, being the nation's capital, which influences local discussions and priorities. Religious diversity is rich in both cities, with numerous communities and places of worship, including St. John the Divine in NYC and the National Cathedral in DC, providing cultural and spiritual homes for residents. When preparing for your move, it's beneficial to consider these differences and embrace the unique opportunities each city offers.

New York City vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from New York City, NY to Washington DC, DC, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between New York City & Washington DC will help you adjust to your new environment more seamlessly.

New York City
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
40
35
Traffic Congestion
9 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
10 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
Yes, but less conveniently

When comparing commuting in New York City to Washington DC, one of the most notable differences is the average commute time, with New York City having a slightly longer commute. Despite the higher traffic congestion in New York City, its public transit system is highly efficient, rated the best in the country, allowing residents to easily get by without a car. In contrast, Washington DC also offers strong public transit options, but you might find yourself less conveniently positioned without a car compared to New York City. Understanding these nuances will help ease your transition and planning for your daily commute in your new city.

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