washington dc to boston

---
title: "Moving from Washington DC to Boston: Cost, Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Moving from Washington DC to Boston costs $1,030–$6,446 depending on home size. Compare movers, see cost-of-living data, and plan your 436-mile move."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Washington DC to Boston", "Washington DC to Boston movers", "DC to Boston moving cost", "Washington DC moving companies", "long distance movers Washington DC", "moving cost DC to Boston", "best movers DC Boston"]
---

If you're moving from Washington DC to Boston, you're looking at a 436-mile run that drops you into one of the most walkable, historically dense cities on the East Coast. That's the pitch. The reality check: Boston costs more — rent especially — and the income you're used to in DC may not stretch as far once you land in Massachusetts. Going in with honest numbers matters.

Below I've laid out what this move actually costs by method and size, which DC-area movers handle long-distance work well, and a straight comparison of what your daily life and budget look like on the other end.

## Top movers for the Washington DC to Boston route

There's no shortage of movers advertising DC-to-Boston service. The shorter list is companies that do it consistently. Here are five worth considering, based on customer feedback patterns and service range.

1. Olympia Moving & Storage — 4.64 / 5
2. Bookstore Movers, LLC — 4.62 / 5
3. My Pro Movers — 4.66 / 5
4. Artisan Movers — 4.66 / 5
5. Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. — 4.70 / 5

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### Olympia Moving & Storage

**4814 Frolich Ln, Hyattsville, MD 20781 | (703) 566-4391**

84% positive | 14% negative | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/olympia-moving-and-storage-watertown) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=olympia+moving+%26+storage+Hyattsville+md) | [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/ma/watertown/profile/moving-companies/olympia-moving-and-storage-0021-55873) — Grade A+

**State license:** 70719 | **DOT #:** 70719 | **In business:** 32 years

Thirty-two years in the business gives Olympia a credibility baseline most DC-area movers can't match. Across nearly 400 reviews, over 83% are positive — customers cite efficient crews, solid communication, careful handling, and a move that actually runs on schedule. The DOD certification is a bonus if you're a military household.

Where they fall short: a portion of customers report damaged or missing items, and the claims process afterward is, by multiple accounts, frustrating. Estimates can also drift on larger, more complex moves. That's not unusual at this tier, but confirm your quote scope in writing before signing anything.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks; crating; storage; full-valuation coverage; DOD certified

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### Bookstore Movers, LLC

**5200 46th Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781 | (202) 570-4697**

96% positive | 4% negative | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/bookstore-movers-washington-3) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=bookstore+movers+washington+dc) | [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/md/hyattsville/profile/moving-companies/bookstore-movers-llc-0241-235980737) — Grade A+

**State license:** 2005212 | **DOT #:** 2005212 | **In business:** 19 years

A 96% positive rate across 230-plus reviews is a number you don't see often in this industry. Bookstore Movers earns it through a specific combination: crews that show up on time, handle property carefully, and — maybe most importantly — give estimates that actually track with the final bill. Scheduling is reportedly smooth compared to most competitors.

The small slice of negative reviews covers the usual suspects: damaged items, rushed moves, and a few cases of unexpected charges. One neutral account mentioned difficulty reaching management mid-move. Those are isolated exceptions, not a trend. Overall, this is one of the more reliable options in the DC metro for a long-distance run to Boston.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks; crating; storage; cash and credit accepted

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### My Pro Movers

**8370 Greensboro Dr, Apt 817, McLean, VA 22102 | (703) 310-7333**

93% positive | 5% negative | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/mypromovers-mclean-2) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=My+Pro+Movers+8370+Greensboro+Dr+%23+817%2C+McLean%2C+VA%2C+22102) | [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/mclean/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/mypromovers-0241-236027598) — Grade A-

**DOT #:** 3116640 | **In business:** 7 years | *Also operating as: MyProMovers LLC*

Newer company, strong numbers — 93% positive across 353 reviews. Speed and care come up repeatedly, as does communication throughout the move. Customers say My Pro Movers regularly outperforms expectations on the day of the actual move.

The one recurring issue is estimates. Several reviewers reported a meaningful gap between the quoted price and the final invoice. That's a yellow flag worth acting on — get line-item specifics in your quote and confirm what triggers additional charges before anything gets loaded.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, hot tubs; crating; full-valuation coverage; storage; fragile-only packing; safes; cash and credit accepted

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### Artisan Movers

**6219 Executive Blvd, Rockville, MD 20852 | (240) 570-8593**

94% positive | 5% negative | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/artisan-movers-rockville) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=artisan+movers) | [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/md/rockville/profile/moving-companies/artisan-movers-0241-236016739) — Grade A+

**State license:** 2957382 | **DOT #:** 2957382 | **In business:** 8 years | *Also known as: Artisan Movers Inc.*

Nearly 94% positive across 259 reviews, and the feedback is consistent: professional crews, careful handling, items that arrive undamaged, and a team that's actually pleasant to deal with on a stressful day. Artisan compares well against similarly-sized DC-area movers and has built a solid reputation in relatively little time.

Isolated complaints around billing follow-up and occasional property damage exist — enough to note, not enough to change the overall picture. If you're moving art, antiques, or anything else requiring extra care, they're well-equipped.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques; crating; storage; safes; credit card accepted

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### Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.

**20 Southlawn Ct, Ste A, Rockville, MD 20850 | (855) 947-6543**

91% positive | 8% negative | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/zip-moving-and-storage-gaithersburg) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=zip+moving+and+storage+rockville+md) | [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/md/gaithersburg/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/zip-moving-and-storage-inc-0241-236017587) — Grade A+

**State license:** 2586700 | **DOT #:** 3306591 | **Rate:** ~$125/hr | **In business:** 9 years

Zip carries the highest average score on this list and earns it through consistency — 91% positive across 372 reviews, with customers highlighting punctual arrivals, efficient crews, and pricing that's usually transparent before anything moves. They're also noted for flexibility when plans shift at the last minute, which is worth more than it sounds on a cross-state move.

The negative reviews cluster around long-distance jobs specifically — some damage reports, some cost increases. If you're shipping a full household from DC to Boston, pin down the long-haul pricing structure explicitly. Local rate cards don't always translate cleanly to interstate quotes.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques; crating; full-valuation coverage; storage; fragile-only packing; multiple payment methods accepted

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## How much does it cost to move from Washington DC to Boston?

Before you call anyone, use our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a baseline on what this move should run. DC-area movers typically charge around $125 per hour for local work, but a 436-mile move to Boston will generally come back as a flat rate or weight-based quote from any serious [long-distance mover](/best/long-distance-movers).

Here's the breakdown by move size and method:

| Move size | Full-service movers | Moving containers | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,030 – $2,749 | $611 – $1,497 | $356 – $675 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,677 – $4,458 | $1,106 – $2,146 | $376 – $793 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,132 – $6,446 | $1,453 – $2,635 | $458 – $896 |

*Price ranges are estimates for a 436-mile Washington DC to Boston move based on current pricing data. Your actual cost will vary with move size, timing, access conditions, fuel rates, and any add-on services. Get quotes from at least three movers before committing.*

### Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Boston

A studio or one-bedroom move from Washington DC to Boston runs $1,030 to $2,749 with a [full-service moving company](/best/full-service-movers). Two- to three-bedroom households fall in the $1,677 to $4,458 range. A large four- or five-bedroom move can reach $3,132 to $6,446 — the upper end of that range is why getting competitive quotes matters.

### Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Boston

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) let you pack and unload on your own schedule without driving a truck 436 miles yourself. Small moves (studio to one bedroom) run $611 to $1,497. Two to three bedrooms: $1,106 to $2,146. Four-plus bedrooms: $1,453 to $2,635. It's a legitimate middle-ground option if you want cost control without going full DIY.

### Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Boston

A [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the cheapest option on this list — but you're trading money for effort. Every box gets packed, every piece of furniture gets loaded, and you're the one driving it four-plus hours to Boston. Studio or one-bedroom: $356 to $675. Two to three bedrooms: $376 to $793. Four-plus bedrooms: $458 to $896. Fuel is factored into these estimates.

If budget is the primary constraint, it's the right call. If you want to save money without going fully DIY, look at [affordable moving companies](/best/cheap-movers) that operate on this corridor.

### Major factors affecting moving costs from Washington DC to Boston

- **Move size:** The single biggest driver. A one-bedroom from DC to Boston might come in around $1,400; a four-bedroom could hit nearly $6,000.
- **Timing:** Summer is peak season — prices spike when demand peaks. Late September, March, and early April typically offer better rates.
- **DIY vs. full-service:** Rental trucks run $356 to $896, but every hour of labor is yours. Know what you're signing up for.

## What to know before moving from Washington DC to Boston

The financial reality of this move: Boston is more expensive. For singles, expect roughly 22% higher overall living costs than DC. Families see a smaller gap — about 2% — but rent and home prices are meaningfully higher across the board.

| | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $3,361 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $5,973 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $739,121 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $89,212 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $4,820 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $11,304 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 6.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 9.0% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation*

What those numbers mean in practice:

- **Rent** runs about 42% higher in Boston than in DC. That's typically the biggest immediate financial adjustment for anyone making this move.
- **Home prices** are roughly 24% higher in Boston. If you're planning to buy shortly after arriving, revise your budget before you start touring.
- **Income** averages about 12% lower in Boston than DC. Higher costs plus lower average wages is the combination people most often underestimate.
- **Cost of living for a single person** is 22% higher in Boston — covering utilities, groceries, transportation, and general everyday spending.
- **Cost of living for a family of four** is only about 2% higher in Boston, so if you're relocating as a household, the overall impact is more manageable.
- **Unemployment** is roughly 11% lower in Boston than DC — a favorable job market for people arriving without a position already lined up.
- **Sales tax** is nearly identical between the two cities. Not a deciding factor.
- **State income tax** is 57% higher in [Massachusetts](/movers/massachusetts) than in [Maryland](/movers/maryland). That's a real reduction in take-home pay and worth factoring into your annual budget, not just your monthly expenses.

Here's how specific everyday costs compare:

| Expense | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $57.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $4.07 |
| Fast-food / casual meal | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Mid-range dinner for two | $120.00 | $135.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $77.50 |

Utilities and dining out run slightly higher in Boston; cell plans and gym memberships are actually cheaper. Groceries are close to a wash. None of these individually are the issue — the cumulative effect of higher rent plus higher state income tax is where the budget strain tends to show up.

### How life is different in Washington DC vs. Boston

| | Washington DC | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 675,647 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 98 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 86 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 39.88 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 60.12 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |

*Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow*

The two cities are nearly identical in population, so you're not making a major urban-to-suburban adjustment either direction. Where Boston pulls ahead: walkability (98 vs. 77), bike infrastructure (86 vs. 70), and safety. Boston's crime index of 39.88 versus DC's 60.37 is a meaningful gap — Boston neighborhoods rank safer than those in DC by a wide margin. Air quality is comparable in both.

### Other things to think through before your Washington DC to Boston move

- **HOA and building policies:** Check move-in and move-out policies on both ends before you schedule. Some buildings have strict elevator windows or loading dock restrictions that can make a late-stage surprise genuinely costly.
- **Elevator reservations:** If your new building has an elevator, book it ahead. Arriving without a reservation can turn an efficient unload into a multi-hour bottleneck.
- **Truck parking:** Boston streets can be tight. Research parking restrictions in your specific destination neighborhood before move day — don't assume there's room for a 26-foot truck.
- **Massachusetts mover licensing:** Movers operating in Massachusetts must hold a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities – Transportation Oversight Division, carry adequate cargo insurance, and publicly file their tariffs. Verify your mover's license before you sign anything. You can check status through the state's public utilities commission.
- **Moving permits:** Massachusetts doesn't require a moving permit, but local parking rules vary — confirm with your municipality.
- **Change of address:** Submit your USPS change of address at least a week before your move date. Gaps in mail forwarding are annoying to untangle after the fact.
- **Mover insurance:** Released Value Protection is the default no-cost option in Massachusetts — but at 60 cents per pound per item, it won't replace anything of real value. If you have high-value furniture, electronics, or art, ask about full-value coverage or a third-party option before your move date.
- **Moving checklist:** Our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) covers the pre-move, move-day, and post-move tasks worth tracking so nothing slips through.

## Where to live in Boston

### Best neighborhoods for singles

- Allston-Brighton
- Back Bay / Beacon Hill
- East Boston
- Jamaica Plain
- South Boston

### Best neighborhoods for families

- Charlestown
- East Boston
- Hyde Park
- Roslindale
- West Roxbury

## Things to do in Boston

Boston rewards people who get out and explore it. A few places to start:

- **Arts and culture:** The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, and Museum of Science are all legitimately worth your time — not just tourist boxes to check.
- **Outdoor recreation:** Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum, and the Charles River Esplanade give you solid green space without leaving the city. With a walkability score of 98, most of it is accessible on foot.
- **Sports:** Boston takes its teams seriously. The Red Sox (MLB), Bruins (NHL), Celtics (NBA), Patriots (NFL), and Revolution (MLS) all have deep local followings. Getting into game culture here is one of the faster ways to feel like you actually live there.

## FAQ

### When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Boston?

Spring and fall. You get manageable weather and avoid the summer price surge that hits when moving demand peaks. Late September and April tend to hit the sweet spot on both counts.

### When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Boston?

Winter. Fewer people move then, which means more mover availability, less competition for trucks, and more room to negotiate on price. The [moving cost guide](/resources/moving-cost-guide) covers other ways to reduce costs regardless of timing.

### How long does a move from Washington DC to Boston take?

At 436 miles, plan for one to four days. The range depends on your mover's schedule, shipment size, and whether storage is involved at either end. Some companies offer direct, faster service; others use consolidated loads on a flex schedule that can stretch the timeline.

### Do movers in Washington DC offer any discounts?

Many do. Among DC-area movers, 7 offer military discounts and 13 extend senior discounts. These aren't always advertised upfront, so ask directly when you're getting quotes — and confirm the terms in writing.

### How many DC-area movers handle specialty items for a Boston move?

More than average, but not all of them. In the DC area, 58 movers can handle pianos and 43 offer antique moving services. If you need specialty handling, book early — availability gets tight fast during peak months, and the movers who do this well tend to fill up first.

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Ready to get specific numbers for your move? [Compare quotes with the MoveFinders calculator](/calculator) and use it as your baseline before reaching out to movers. Getting three quotes from DC-area companies is the fastest way to understand what the market actually looks like for your specific situation.