Quick answer: Expect to pay $513–$6,406 for a move from Washington DC to Boston, with most moves taking one to four days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 436 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Boston to Washington DC guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Washington DC to Boston

Choosing a long-distance mover for your trip from Washington DC to Boston can be tough. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed about who you can truly count on.

Save yourself the hassle of sorting through countless moving companies — we've already narrowed down the best for you. Our favorites earned their spots thanks to rave reviews, budget-friendly prices, and versatile services to suit any type of move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MD to MA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 44 Maryland movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies in Washington DC

  1. 495 Movers, Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. Artisan Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/495movingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/495moversinc
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with a well-organized team can transform a stressful day into a smooth experience. Across 410 reviews for 495 Movers, 83.7% of feedback is positive, reflecting results that outpace many competitors. Most customers found efficient service, careful handling, and friendly, professional movers who kept fragile belongings safe and finished jobs on (or ahead of) schedule.
Many appreciated clear estimates, honest pricing, and responsive communication before and during the move. Free packing supplies and flexibility made preparation easier, and follow-up calls reassured customers their move details were covered. A much smaller portion of feedback reports dissatisfaction. Some customers cite damage to their items, unexpected charges not matching estimates, or lost belongings—especially for long-distance or storage moves. A few also mentioned that claims for lost or broken possessions were hard to resolve, and communication could suffer after the move. Negative experiences frequently came with higher costs or struggles reaching resolution, leaving affected customers frustrated. Most feedback highlights efficiency, a courteous team, attention to detail, and billing transparency. Problems with damage or unexpected fees, though rare, are more common than with industry leaders renowned for flawless claims handling and rigid cost guarantees. On balance, 495 Movers is rated better than most moving companies for local or regional moves, especially for customers seeking cost clarity and respectful crews.
Show more
Get a Quote (855) 243-1717

Company Info

State license #: 1893270

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1893270


Services Offered

  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/zipmovingatlanta/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. stands out for efficient, professional service and careful attention to belongings. In an analysis of 372 customer reviews, 91% of the input praised the company's fast moving teams, careful handling of items, professionalism, prompt communication, and swift processes. Most feedback highlights that movers arrive on time, work efficiently, and treat possessions with respect, which is often hard to find among competitors.
Many also note transparent pricing and flexibility when scheduling or dealing with last-minute changes. While positive feedback dominates, some customers report problems with damages to items, unexpected cost increases, or delays in delivery, especially for long-distance moves. Compared to other movers, Zip consistently delivers a reliable, courteous experience but could improve by minimizing damages and clarifying pricing for every customer.
Show more
Get a Quote (855) 947-6543

Company Info

State license #: 2586700

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3306591


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/OlympiaMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/olympiams
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storage’s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry.
On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

Company Info

State license #: 70719

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 70719


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/artisanmoving, https://twitter.com/artisanmovers
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input points to Artisan Movers as a standout in the moving industry, with 259 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% offering positive input. Most feedback highlights a team respected for professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, effective communication, and quick moving processes—qualities consistently recognized in top-rated movers. Customers frequently note that their belongings arrive undamaged and praise the crew's friendly, accommodating manner.
On the downside, a small percentage report concerns like item damage, surprise charges, or slow responses from management. When compared with other companies, Artisan Movers receives higher marks for reliability, staff courtesy, and transparent communication, though there are isolated reports of property damage or issues with the billing process. These trends show a company excelling in service standards, with a few exceptions relating to damage and administrative follow-through.
Show more
Get a Quote (240) 570-8593

Company Info

State license #: 2957382

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2957382

Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantmove
95% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Glowing feedback cements Gentle Giant Moving Company as a leader in their field. Out of 311 reviews, 95% of customers offer high praise, citing efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams as standout qualities. Many describe the moving process as quick, with thorough communication from booking to delivery, creating a smooth and stress-free experience.
Hundreds of customers report their belongings arrived safely—even during challenging or long-distance moves. On the downside, a handful of users express dissatisfaction with final costs exceeding estimates, a few unmet expectations around communication, and occasional scheduling or arrival delays. Compared to many moving companies, reports of damaged goods or loss are remarkably rare. For those weighing reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind, Gentle Giant is a top-tier choice, though budget-focused clients may encounter higher-than-expected pricing.
Show more
Get a Quote (202) 758-0213

Company Info

State license #: 373544

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Washington DC movers charge $85 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,287 - $3,799 $787 - $1,985 $462 - $869
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,181 - $6,406 $1,437 - $2,733 $513 - $1,041
4+ bedrooms $3,719 - $8,909 $2,004 - $3,390 $595 - $1,177
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 436 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Maryland to Massachusetts

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Maryland to Massachusetts, you can expect to spend between $1,287 and $3,799. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,181 to $6,406 on the same route (MD to MA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Maryland to Massachusetts typically runs between $3,719 and $8,909.

Cost of moving containers from Maryland to Massachusetts

If you're moving from Maryland to Massachusetts, expect to pay between $787 and $1,985 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,437 up to $2,733. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,004 and $3,390. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Maryland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Maryland to Massachusetts

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $462 and $869. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $513 and $1,041. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $595 up to $1,177 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to Bostontoggle

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Washington DC to Boston might cost as little as $1,287, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,478.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Washington DC, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $462 to $1,105 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Boston

Moving from Washington DC to Boston comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Boston is generally more expensive than Washington DC, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Washington DC Boston
Average rent cost $2,400 $3,400
Average home value $594,337 $739,121
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $89,212
Cost of living (single person) $3,963 $4,820
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,093 $11,304
Unemployment rate 7.0% 6.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 6.25%
State income tax 5.75% 9.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Boston, since prices are typically 42% higher than in Washington DC.
  • The home prices in Boston are 24.4% higher than in Washington DC, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Boston is 12.3% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Boston — including General Electric, Fidelity Investments, and Liberty Mutual Insurance — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Boston, since the cost of living for a single person in Boston is 21.6% higher than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Boston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Boston is 1.9% higher than in Washington DC.
  • The unemployment rate in Boston is 11.43% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Boston, since its sales taxes are 4.17% higher than what you are paying in Washington DC.
  • State income taxes in Boston are 56.52% higher than in Washington DC.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,648.75 in Boston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Boston

Boston Washington DC
Population 675,647 705,749
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 9
Walkability score 98 77
Bike friendliness score 86 70
Crime Index 39.88 60.37
Safety Index 60.12 39.63
Air Quality Good Good
  • Boston might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 4% less than Washington DC.
  • Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Boston will be about the same as it currently is in Washington DC. The cities share a similar public transportation score, which means their transit systems are comparable in terms of how connected they are, how often they provide service, and how close they are to jobs, housing, retail and food stores, and other important locations.
  • Living in Boston means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Washington DC. Boston is considered more walkable than Washington DC, with a score of 98 out of 100 versus 77 out of 100 in Washington DC. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Boston is considered more bike-friendly than Washington DC in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Boston has a bike-friendliness score of 86 out of 100, while Washington DC is rated as 70 out of 100.
  • Boston has a lower crime rate than Washington DC based on scores of 39.88 and Washington DC's 60.37, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Boston than in Washington DC, based on Boston's safety index of 60.12 versus 39.63 for Washington DC. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Boston and Washington DC is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC vs. Boston move

  • Weather: Boston summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy, with occasional periods of heavy snow. Spring and fall are usually cool to mild.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: Moving companies in Massachusetts are required to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities – Transportation Oversight Division to provide local and intrastate moving services in Massachusetts movers must carry adequate cargo insurance and publicly file their tariffs required to list the services they provide and the cost for each. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Massachusetts moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Massachusetts doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Boston. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Alabama and Massachusetts, Released Value Protection is a no-cost option provided by movers but offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. If you seek full value coverage for your items, consider consulting with your moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Boston

Now that you've chosen Athens of America as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Boston to check out.

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

After getting comfortable in your new Massachusetts home, it's time to see what Boston is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Boston, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library, Museum of Science, and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum, and Charles River Esplanade — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Boston Red Sox (MLB), Boston Bruins (NHL), Boston Celtics (NBA), or New England Patriots (NFL) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Washington DC to Boston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Washington DC.

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

With many people choosing to move from Washington DC to Boston in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

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

The 436-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Boston, MA, takes one to four days. Some Washington DC movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Boston.

Helpful moving resources