Best Alexandria to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightVirginiaChevron RightAlexandriaChevron RightAlexandria to Washington DC

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Alexandria to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 8 mile move from Virginia to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 66 Alexandria 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 ARS Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $3,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Alexandria 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.

Best Alexandria to Washington DC Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Alexandria to Washington DC Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1ARS Movers9.649.76Authorized For HHG
2Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
3Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
4Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
5Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 8 miles from Alexandria, VA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,520 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Alexandria to Washington DC move is roughly $3,622. 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$1,026300 ft³$3.42
1 Bedroom$1,520450 ft³$3.38
2 Bedrooms$2,501750 ft³$3.33
3 Bedrooms$3,6221100 ft³$3.29
4 Bedrooms$5,2001600 ft³$3.25
5+ Bedrooms$5,7731800 ft³$3.21
*Please note: These Virginia to DC moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Virginia & 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 VA to DC mover.
Virginia iconArrow iconDC icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Alexandria guide.

Compare the 5 Best Alexandria to Washington DC Movers

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

ARS Movers Logo

ARS Movers

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,509+ data points

Herndon, VA, 20170

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a...

Services

  • Local Moving (Residential Moving)
  • Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
  • Office Moving (Commercial Moving)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3260258 / 1027666

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved3 (2022)
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
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
3
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
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
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we’ve conducted a comparison between Alexandria, VA & Washington DC, DC neighborhoods, providing you with insights on similar areas to help you acclimate more effortlessly to your new surroundings.

AlexandriaWashington DCHow They're Similar
Old TownGeorgetownHistoric charm, vibrant nightlife
Del RayCapitol HillQuaint homes, strong community vibe
West EndColumbia HeightsDiverse, family-friendly
ParkfairfaxCleveland ParkGreen spaces, neighborhood feel
North RidgeTenleytownResidential, well-connected
RosemontDupont CircleHistoric homes, cultural attractions
Potomac WestNavy YardWaterfront views, modern developments
Potomac YardSouthwest WaterfrontGrowing area, near water
Eisenhower EastNoMaUpcoming, business-centric
LandmarkBrooklandArtsy, historic, with a suburban feel

For those drawn to the historic charm and bustling streets of Old Town Alexandria, you'll find a similar spirit in Georgetown, with its cobblestone sidewalks and an eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants. If the artsy, community-centric vibe of Del Ray has captured your heart, then Capitol Hill’s vibrant community, weekly farmers markets, and historic row houses might be just where you need to land in DC. Perhaps it's the green tranquility and neighborly atmosphere of Parkfairfax that you’re looking to match; Cleveland Park offers an abundance of green spaces including the expansive Rock Creek Park, alongside family-friendly dining options like the acclaimed Vienna Inn. Whether it’s the waterfront serenity of Potomac Yard or the artistic, historic fabric of Landmark that you’re leaving behind, Washington DC presents neighborhoods that promise a seamless transition with their own unique flair and communal warmth.

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 Alexandria to Washington DC

Moving from Alexandria, VA to Washington DC, DC presents a complex blend of challenges and opportunities. This analysis aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh both sides. Below, you'll find carefully curated charts comparing the cons of Alexandria with the pros of Washington DC, and vice versa.

CONs
PROs
Alexandria, VA iconAlexandria, VA
  • Higher living costs
  • Fewer cultural activities
  • Less public transportation
  • Smaller green spaces
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • More job opportunities
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Larger parks and gardens
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Noisier urban environment
  • Higher crime rates
  • More impersonal
  • Limited parking availability
Alexandria, VA iconAlexandria, VA
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Lower crime rates
  • Community feel
  • Easier parking

While Alexandria, VA, is known for its quieter neighborhoods and a strong sense of community, offering residents a respite from the hustle and bustle, Washington DC, beckons with its dynamic and cosmopolitan vibe. The move to DC introduces you to a plethora of job opportunities, nestled in a city rich with historical monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and vibrant cultural districts such as U Street. While the green expanses of Alexandria's Founders Park will be missed, DC's vast National Mall and Rock Creek Park offer new landscapes to explore. The adjustment to a more densely urban environment might mean less parking and more noise, but it also opens the door to exploring world-class museums, including the Smithsonian, and dining in renowned establishments such as Zaytinya or Rose's Luxury. This transition presents an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique, pulsating life of one of America's most iconic cities.

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Alexandria, VA & Washington DC, DC, highlighting the role food plays in defining the cultural vibe and everyday life in both locales. As you consider moving, this insight will prepare you for the culinary delights awaiting in your new city.

Alexandria
Washington DC
Most iconic local food item
Chesapeake Bay Crab
Half-smoke
Most popular meat dish
Virginia Ham
Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings
Most popular street food item
Artisan Hot Dogs
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa Salad
Kimchi Tofu Stew
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Restaurant Eve
  • The Majestic
  • Vermilion
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Le Diplomate
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When comparing the food scenes of Alexandria, VA, and Washington DC, DC, you'll find unique and diverse options in both cities. Alexandria is renowned for its Chesapeake Bay Crab and Virginia Ham, reflecting the state's rich heritage. The historic streets host highly acclaimed restaurants such as Restaurant Eve and The Majestic, where local cuisine shines. In contrast, Washington DC boasts a vibrant, diverse culinary scene with international influences, seen in its iconic half-smoke and varied street food offerings like food truck tacos. Neighborhoods like U Street and Capitol Hill are teeming with food trucks and vegan options, making DC a haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you crave gourmet dining or innovative vegan dishes, your taste buds will be delighted by what you discover in these cities.

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Alexandria to Washington DC, diving into the culinary scene is key to feeling at home. Compare Alexandria's top restaurants to their closest Washington DC counterparts to find your new local favorites and ensure a seamless transition. This guide serves as a culinary compass.

AlexandriaWashington DCWhat You'll Love
VermilionLe DiplomateOffers a similarly upscale dining experience with a strong emphasis on American and French cuisine.
RT's RestaurantAcadianaBoth serve exceptional Southern and particularly Louisiana-style dishes, perfect for foodies seeking comfort food with flair.
Hank's Oyster BarPearl Dive Oyster PalaceBoth specialize in seafood, particularly oysters, and provide a casual yet refined dining experience.
La TascaBoqueriaBoth are Spanish tapas restaurants offering a vibrant, social dining atmosphere along with a wide variety of dishes.
The MajesticOld Ebbitt GrillIconic spots in their respective cities, offering American classic dishes with a nod to history and tradition.
Taqueria PoblanoOyamel Cocina MexicanaBoth are celebrated for their authentic Mexican cuisine, including specialty tacos and margaritas.
Landini BrothersFiola MareBoth offer exquisite Italian dining experiences with a focus on seafood, ideal for special occasions.
Dishes of IndiaRasikaBoth restaurants are known for their innovative and traditional Indian dishes, pleasing both adventurous eaters and purists.
Fontaine Caffe & CreperieLe Pain QuotidienWhile not strictly creperies, both offer a European café vibe with excellent pastries, bread, and brunch options.
Momo SushiSushi TaroOffering authentic Japanese dining experiences, both are perfect for sushi enthusiasts looking for quality and variety.

In shifting from Alexandria to Washington DC, finding comparable dining experiences can truly soften the blow of a big move. For instance, seafood lovers who frequented Hank's Oyster Bar for its laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere will find Pearl Dive Oyster Palace in Washington DC a perfect substitute, boasting not only quality oysters but also a diverse seafood menu. For those craving the warm, inviting feel of Southern cuisine, Acadiana in Washington DC mirrors RT's Restaurant's cherished dishes, offering a familiar culinary embrace in a new city. And when the need for a casual yet iconic dining experience arises, Old Ebbitt Grill stands as Washington DC's answer to The Majestic, offering not just a meal, but a piece of the city's history, much like The Majestic does in Alexandria. These transitions showcase how easily one can find new favorites while cherishing the flavors of home.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing markets compare in Alexandria, VA, and Washington DC, DC is essential for making an informed decision. This comparison will help you grasp the nuances of each location, including cost, architectural styles, and lifestyle offerings.

Alexandria
Washington DC
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Georgian
Victorian, Federal
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Old Town, Waterfront views
Access to Metro, Historic neighborhoods

While the Median Home Price in Alexandria is noticeably lower than in Washington DC, the difference in Median Monthly Rent paints a vivid picture of the living costs in these cities. Alexandria's charm lies in its colonial and Georgian architectural styles, which are deeply rooted in America's history. Contrastingly, Washington DC showcases a mix of Victorian and Federal architecture, reflecting a diverse historical narrative. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Washington DC underscore its urban fabric, offering an enhanced lifestyle with easier access to amenities. Popular real estate listings in Alexandria often highlight the proximity to Old Town and waterfront views, whereas in Washington DC, the emphasis is on access to the Metro and historic neighborhoods, showcasing the cities' unique attributes in meeting various lifestyle preferences.

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.

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Alexandria, VA to Washington DC, DC, grasping the weather differences can help you adjust better. This comparison charts the climate variances, laying the groundwork for what you might expect in your new home.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 67°F
88°F / 68°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

44°F / 29°F
47°F / 30°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43.4"
40.8"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

14"
15.4"


While both Alexandria and Washington DC boast a similar climate, minor differences could impact your daily life. For instance, the slightly higher winter temperatures in DC can make the chilly months more bearable. However, DC's moderate air quality compared to Alexandria's good rating may be a consideration if you are sensitive to pollution. The similarity in seasonal allergies and the number of sunshine days means you'll likely enjoy the outdoors equally in both locations. Understanding these nuances ensures a smoother transition to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another requires a thorough understanding of how your finances could be impacted. This chart compares key monetary and financial aspects between Alexandria, VA, and Washington DC, helping you foresee the changes you might experience in areas like income, taxes, and living costs.

Alexandria
Washington DC
Avg. Household Income
$101,162
$90,088
Cost of Living Index
140.1
140.1
State Income Tax
5.75%
8.95%
Avg. Property Tax
0.80%
0.56%
Avg. Sales Tax
6%
6%
Top 3 Industries
Government, Technology, Defense
Government, Professional Services, Tourism
Affluence
Affluent
Very Affluent
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Low
Moderate to High

The comparison highlights Alexandria's slightly higher average household income, which contrasts with Washington DC's higher state income tax rate. Alexandria is also more affordable regarding property taxes, despite its higher cost of living index. Interestingly, both cities boast a strong government presence among their top industries, yet their approaches to affluence and handling poverty and homelessness starkly differ. Moving between these cities means navigating these financial landscapes, preparing you for the tax implications and cost of living adjustments that accompany your new home.

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison

In contemplating a move from Alexandria, VA, to Washington DC, it's crucial to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting this is a comparison of the politics between Alexandria & Washington DC to help you get acclimated to your new environment.

Alexandria
Washington DC
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Active community engagement in local elections
Highly political environment with federal and local implications
Religion
Diverse, with Christianity being most prominent
Diverse religious landscape with numerous faith communities

Both Alexandria and Washington DC share a liberal/Democratic political leaning, indicating that your political surroundings might not feel drastically different. However, Washington DC's unique position as the nation’s capital introduces a more intense political ambiance, directly affecting local and national politics. The political engagement in DC often extends beyond local elections to national policy and international affairs. Despite these political similarities, the religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse, offering a wide range of places of worship and faith communities, from Christian churches to Islamic centers and beyond. This diversity means you'll likely find a welcoming space that aligns with your beliefs or interests.

Alexandria vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Alexandria, VA, to Washington DC, DC, it's essential to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Alexandria & Washington DC will help you plan for changes in your commute.

Alexandria
Washington DC
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
29
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
Yes, easier

In Alexandria, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Washington DC, although the difference is minimal. Traffic congestion is a significant concern in both cities, with Washington DC edging out slightly higher on the frustration scale. Public transit availability is excellent in both areas, with Washington DC having a slight edge, making it more feasible to live there without a personal vehicle. Living in Alexandria without a car is possible but might pose more of a challenge due to lesser density of transit options compared to Washington DC. This factor can significantly impact your lifestyle choices and daily routine, so it's worth considering when planning your move.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Alexandria to Washington DC Movers Featured Image