Best Chattanooga to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chattanooga to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 606 mile move from Tennessee to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Boundless Moving & Storage9.349.36Authorized For Property, HHG
4Smooth Moving & Storage8.978.63Authorized For HHG
5Piano Movers Plus8.888.17Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 606 miles from Chattanooga, TN to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $2,297 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chattanooga to Washington DC move is roughly $5,504. 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$1,546300 ft³$5.15
1 Bedroom$2,297450 ft³$5.10
2 Bedrooms$3,790750 ft³$5.05
3 Bedrooms$5,5041100 ft³$5.00
4 Bedrooms$7,9261600 ft³$4.95
5+ Bedrooms$8,8261800 ft³$4.90
*Please note: These Tennessee to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Tennessee & 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 TN to DC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Chattanooga guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chattanooga 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
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,230+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

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

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo

Smooth Moving & Storage

Superb8.97/10
based on 317+ data points

3620 Trousdale Dr

Nashville, TN, 37204

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2472874 / 1244900

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
4
P

Piano Movers Plus

Superb8.88/10
based on 105+ data points

3889 Hixson Pike

Chattanooga, TN, 37415

About Piano Movers Plus

Piano Movers Plus is a locally owned and operated moving company based in Chattanooga, TN, serving the surrounding cities such as...

Services

  • Damage free piano moving
  • Hard to move items moving
  • Household moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

849413 / 393793

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved184,000 (2023)
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.

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to compare local neighborhoods between Chattanooga, TN & Washington DC, DC. This will help you find a new community that feels like home by using what you know and love as the baseline.

ChattanoogaWashington DCHow They're Similar
North ShoreAdams MorganEclectic shops, diverse dining options
St. ElmoCapitol HillHistoric charm, strong community feel
Downtown ChattanoogaPenn QuarterEntertainment, dining, and nightlife
SouthsideShawTrendy restaurants, vibrant art scene
Highland ParkBloomingdaleResidential, historic homes
Signal MountainCleveland ParkFamily-friendly, suburban feel
East BrainerdNoMaModern apartments, proximity to amenities
Red BankPetworthGrowing community, green spaces
HixsonBrooklandLaid-back, access to parks
Lookout MountainGeorgetownHistoric, upscale residential area

For those moving from Chattanooga's bustling North Shore, you'll find a similar vibe in Washington DC's Adams Morgan neighborhood, known for its eclectic array of shops and global cuisine that mirrors the diversity and creativity found in Chattanooga. Similarly, St. Elmo's historic and tight-knit community spirit is mirrored in Capitol Hill, where the sense of history pervades every street corner. For those accustomed to the trendy atmosphere of Chattanooga's Southside, Shaw in Washington DC offers an equally vibrant arts scene and a plethora of dining options, including noteworthy establishments like Compass Rose and Convivial. Nature enthusiasts moving from Signal Mountain will appreciate the suburban feel and green expanses of Cleveland Park, where families can enjoy outdoor activities at spots like the National Zoo. This comparison aims to help you visualize your new neighborhood in Washington DC, keeping in mind what you cherish about your Chattanooga community.

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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 Chattanooga to Washington DC

Moving from Chattanooga, TN to Washington DC, DC represents a significant lifestyle shift. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of the relocation from Chattanooga to Washington DC . It's designed to help you weigh your options carefully by contrasting the cons of your current city with the pros of your new one, and vice versa.

CONs
PROs
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer cultural events
  • Less diverse dining
  • Lower walkability
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural events
  • More diverse dining
  • Higher walkability
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller homes
  • Higher traffic congestion
  • Less green space
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • More affordable living
  • Larger homes
  • Lower traffic congestion
  • Proximity to nature

Living in Chattanooga, TN, provides the benefit of a more laid-back lifestyle with affordable living options and easy access to the great outdoors. It's not uncommon for residents to enjoy weekend trips to Lookout Mountain or strolls along the Tennessee River. Moving to Washington DC opens up a plethora of new opportunities, especially in terms of career and cultural exposure. Here, you'll have the chance to dine at renowned restaurants like Joselito Casa de Comidas for exquisite Spanish cuisine or explore the rich history and sights, including the National Mall and Smithsonian museums. However, the transition means adjusting to a brisker pace of life, dealing with the hustle and bustle of the city, and preparing for a higher cost of living. But for those craving diversity, culture, and ample professional opportunities, Washington DC presents an exciting new chapter.

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chattanooga & Washington DC, aiming to shed light on the food scene you'll be embracing. Understanding the culinary landscape is essential for getting a taste of local culture and lifestyle in your new home.

Chattanooga
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Chattanooga MoonPie
Half-Smoke
Most popular meat dish
Pulled Pork BBQ
Fried Chicken and Mumbo Sauce
Most popular street food item
Smoked Sausage Sandwich
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Barbecue Jackfruit Sandwich
Plant-based Bowls
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Allen's Diner
  • Beast + Barrel
  • Hennen's Tavern
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Zaytinya
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Chattanooga to Washington DC, you're transitioning to a city known for its diverse and vibrant food scene. In DC, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and the U Street Corridor are hotspots for culinary enthusiasts seeking out the famous Half-Smoke or exploring the high-end, eclectic offerings of restaurants like Rose's Luxury. The health and fitness conscientiousness of Washington DC is reflected in its abundant plant-based dining options and renowned food trucks, providing a cornucopia of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether you're hunting for the best Food Truck Tacos on a bustling street corner or indulging in vegan bowls at a trendy café, Washington DC's food scene is teeming with opportunities to explore and indulge.

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

Finding culinary comforts in a new city can significantly ease the transition of relocation. This restaurant comparison from Chattanooga to Washington DC is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, leveraging your current affection for Chattanooga's eateries as a guide.

ChattanoogaWashington DCWhat You'll Love
AlleiaCentrolinaAuthentic Italian dishes with a modern twist.
Easy Bistro & BarLe DiplomateFrench bistro classics in a chic setting.
Public HouseThe DabneyLocally sourced ingredients in American cuisine.
Main Street MeatsRed HenButcher-driven American fare focusing on sustainability.
St. John's RestaurantPlumeExquisite fine dining with a focus on seasonal cuisine.
Uncle Larry's RestaurantBen's Chili BowlIconic spot known for its down-home eats.
Hennen'sBourbon SteakHigh-end steakhouse offering prime cuts.
Champy'sBluejacket BreweryGreat for casual dining and craft beers.
Terminal BrewhouseChurchKeyVaried beer selection with upscale pub fare.
TaconoogaTaqueria HabaneroAuthentic Mexican eats and street food vibes.

For those who cherished the local flavors and diverse culinary scene of Chattanooga, finding corresponding gems in Washington DC becomes a foray into both familiar and new gastronomic delights. Take, for example, the transition from the hearty Italian meals of Alleia to Centrolina, where you'll encounter Italian cuisine reimagined with a contemporary flair amidst the bustling city. Likewise, if the down-to-earth charm and comfort food of Uncle Larry's Restaurant captured your heart, then Ben's Chili Bowl in DC will offer a similar embrace with its rich history and legendary chili. These comparisons not only promise continuity in culinary satisfaction but also invite you to explore the unique narratives and communities behind each Washington DC establishment, enriching your dining experience and connection to your new home.

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Ready to start your move?

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate aspects between Chattanooga and Washington DC is crucial. This comparison will highlight critical differences and similarities, assisting in making an informed decision on where to settle.

Chattanooga
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman, Bungalow
Federal, Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Scenic views, large lots
Proximity to metro, historic charm

Considering a move to Chattanooga or Washington DC? It's essential to note the stark contrasts in both housing costs and lifestyle. Chattanooga offers lower home prices and rents, appealing to those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality. Its real estate often touts scenic views and large lots, reflecting the city's blend of urban and natural environments. On the other hand, Washington DC is significantly more expensive but boasts a highly walkable and bikeable environment, ideal for those who prioritize an urban lifestyle. The city's architecture, featuring Federal and Victorian styles, adds historic charm to its neighborhoods. This comparison reveals the trade-offs between a more affordable, spacious living in Chattanooga and a bustling, urban experience in Washington DC.

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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.

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When moving from one city to another, it's crucial to know how the weather might change. This comparison chart aims to help you anticipate how your life might adjust moving from Chattanooga, TN to Washington DC, DC, especially in terms of weather conditions.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/69
88/71
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50/31
47/29


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

52.48
39.74
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

3.9
15.4


When you move from Chattanooga to Washington DC, you'll notice certain weather similarities and differences that could affect your daily life. Both cities experience hot summers and pollen-related allergies. However, winters in Washington DC are slightly colder with more snowfall, approximately 15.4 inches annually compared to Chattanooga's 3.9 inches. This means more opportunities for snow-related activities in DC, but also more snow to shovel. Air quality and the types of natural disasters also vary, with Chattanooga experiencing better air quality but a higher likelihood of tornadoes and floods, while DC faces potential blizzards and hurricanes. These factors are critical to consider for your wardrobe, health, and housing decisions.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims at shedding light on the various economic factors you will encounter when moving from Chattanooga, TN to Washington DC, DC, highlighting crucial data like income, taxes, and the cost of living to make your transition as smooth as possible.

Chattanooga
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$55,065
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
91.1
140.1
State Income Tax
1% (Hall tax only)
4% - 8.95%
Avg. Property Tax
0.74%
0.56%
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25%
6%
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education
Government, Professional Services, Education
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Moderate
High

While Chattanooga boasts a more affordable cost of living and lower overall taxes, it's important to note that the average household income in Washington DC is significantly higher. This increase in income could balance out the higher cost of living you'll experience in the nation's capital. Also, while both cities have strong educational institutions, the leading industries differ greatly with Chattanooga focusing on manufacturing and healthcare, versus Washington DC's emphasis on government and professional services. This suggests potential career opportunities may shift considerably with your move. Understanding the economic landscape of your new home will be crucial in planning your finances post-move.

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can dramatically change the cultural and social landscape around you. This quick comparison will provide you with a snapshot of the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chattanooga & Washington DC, helping you understand the environment of your new home.

Chattanooga
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Conservative
Liberal
Local Politics
Republican-leaning
Democrat-dominated
Religion
Highly Religious, predominantly Christian
More diverse, less religious overall

When you move from Chattanooga to Washington DC, you'll transition from an area with a conservative, mostly Republican political landscape into one that's known for its liberal views and Democrat dominance in local politics. This means you might find the public policies and social issues prioritized in your new community quite different from what you're used to. Additionally, Chattanooga's culture is heavily influenced by Christian faiths, which plays a significant role in community activities and social services. In contrast, Washington DC presents a more religiously diverse and secular environment, with a wider range of cultural events and organizations, such as those you can find at Smithsonian Institution. This shift can offer exciting opportunities to experience new perspectives and community engagements.

Chattanooga vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chattanooga, TN to Washington DC, DC requires understanding the differences between the two cities, especially when it comes to daily commutes. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Chattanooga & Washington DC will give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Chattanooga
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

Washington DC, with its higher traffic congestion score, might initially seem more daunting than Chattanooga. However, DC's efficient public transit system, including Metro, buses, and bike-share programs make it feasible to live without a car. Contrarily, in Chattanooga, the public transit options are more limited, making a car almost essential for daily life. This difference significantly affects how you might plan your commute and day-to-day activities after moving from Chattanooga to DC. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust more quickly to your new city.

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