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Moving from the Keystone State to the Nation's Capital marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind Pennsylvania's historic landscapes for D.C.'s vibrant city life and iconic monuments is a journey of discovery. Recognizing the challenges of such a move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're connected with the best movers for a smooth transition to your new beginning.
Moving from Pennsylvania to DC?
6 Best PA to DC Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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6 Best Pennsylvania to DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
#1
 | Pittsburgh, PA |
 | Local move in Pittsburgh, Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh, Residential move See More |
 | Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) |
 | USDOT: 3901080 Verify |
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...Read More >>
#2
| Hyattsville, MD |
| Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/15/2021) |
| USDOT: 2005212 Verify |
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
#3
| Washington DC, DC |
| Local Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/14/2021) |
| USDOT: 2474176 Verify |
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 co...Read More >>
#4
| Philadelphia, PA |
| Local Movers, Long-distance Movers, Packing Services See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) |
| USDOT: 2261303 Verify |
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>
#5
| Harrisburg, PA |
| Local & long-distance moving, Commercial moving, Labor-only moving See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/11/2024) |
| USDOT: 3011826 Verify |
About Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC
Keystone Moving & Junk Removal is a BBB-accredited moving company in Mechanicsburg that services Harrisburg, Camp Hill, and all surround...Read More >>
#6
S
| Yardley, PA |
| Local & Long Distance Moving, Residential & Commercial Relocation, Packing & Crating See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/12/2024) |
| USDOT: 3375156 Verify |
About Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC
Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC is a family-owned and operated business that offers various moving and storage solutions in Sou...Read More >>
Pros and Cons of Moving from Pennsylvania to DC
Making the move from Pennsylvania to DC can be a big decision. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the pros and cons to help illustrate the life changes you can expect. From the pace of life to the cost of living, let’s dive into the realities of relocating from Pennsylvania to DC, presenting both the challenges and rewards.
CONs
PROs
Pennsylvania- Lower job market
- Less cultural diversity
- Lower public transit use
- More suburban
DC- Robust job opportunities
- High cultural diversity
- Extensive public transit
- Urban living
DC- Higher cost of living
- Smaller living spaces
- Less green space
- Noisier environment
Pennsylvania- Lower cost of living
- Spacious living
- Natural beauty
- Quieter neighborhoods
Moving from Pennsylvania’s spacious and quieter neighborhoods like those in Bucks County to the bustling streets of DC, such as the vibrant Dupont Circle or historical Capitol Hill, marks a significant change in daily life. You'll find Smithsonian museums and the National Mall becoming part of your new backyard, offering rich educational and recreational outings. The plethora of dining options, from the food trucks lining the streets near George Washington University to high-end eateries in Georgetown, highlights the distinct shift to an urban lifestyle. While the cost of living might be higher, the increase in cultural diversity, job opportunities, and public transit accessibility in DC presents an exciting urban convenience seldom matched.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to DC
Understanding the intricacies of an area extends beyond its landscape to its culinary scene. Food is a crucial component of local culture. This guide compares the local cuisine between Pennsylvania & DC to give you a taste of what to expect in your new home.
| Pennsylvania | DC |
|---|---|
Most iconic local food item Philly Cheesesteak Half-Smoke | |
Most popular meat dish Pork and Sauerkraut Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings | |
Most popular street food item Pretzels Falafel | |
Most popular vegan food Seitan Cheesesteak Vegan Soul Food | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 7 8 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 6 9 | |
Foodie Scene 8 9 | |
Vegan Friendly 7 8 | |
In moving from Pennsylvania to DC, you'll transition from the hearty, comfort-laden offerings epitomized by dishes like the Philly Cheesesteak, to a more diverse and internationally influenced fare, as represented by DC's famed Half-Smokes and plethora of vegan options. DC's food scene is vibrant, with areas like U Street, H Street, and Capitol Hill offering a dynamic range of culinary experiences. The city's higher health consciousness is reflected in its abundance of food trucks and vegan eateries, catering to a broad spectrum of diets and lifestyles. Whether you're dining at Ben's Chili Bowl or exploring the globally-inspired menus of Rose's Luxury or Zaytinya, you'll find that DC's culinary scene offers something to satisfy every palate.
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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Pennsylvania to DC
When planning your move from Pennsylvania to DC, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison shines a light on housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to ensure you make an informed decision.
In comparison, DC boasts a more urban and high-paced lifestyle with an average urban lifestyle rating of 9 out of 10, reflecting its vibrant city life and wealth of amenities. The architecture in DC, characterized by Victorian and Row Houses, has become a signature style, diverging from Pennsylvania's more traditional Colonial and Farmhouse designs. Furthermore, DC's higher walkability and bikeability scores highlight its compact, accessible nature, making it a haven for those who prefer to traverse the city without a vehicle. The prominence of rooftop decks and metro proximity in DC's real estate listings underscores the unique urban experience awaiting newcomers.
Weather Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to DC
When planning a move from Pennsylvania to DC, understanding the weather differences between Pennsylvania and DC is crucial to prepare for the changes you'll experience. This comparison will help you adapt to your new home's climate more comfortably.
85°F / 62°F
Pennsylvania
88°F / 71°F
DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
40°F / 20°F
Pennsylvania
47°F / 29°F
DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
42
Pennsylvania
40
DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
38
Pennsylvania
15
DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Pennsylvania to DC, you'll find the summers a bit warmer and the winters slightly milder in DC. With more days of sunshine, DC offers a brighter climate, which is further complemented by a higher UV index, meaning more attention to sun protection is necessary. Notably, DC experiences fewer blizzards than Pennsylvania but may encounter heatwaves and the occasional hurricane. Additionally, allergy sufferers might find differences in the predominant seasonal allergies, adjusting to new triggers like mold in DC's humid environment.
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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to DC
When planning a move from Pennsylvania to DC, it's crucial to understand how the financial landscape shifts. This comparison helps illustrate the money and finance differences between Pennsylvania and DC , giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic conditions.
Moving from Pennsylvania to DC, you'll encounter a significant change in the cost of living, with DC being substantially more expensive. Despite the higher average household income in DC, it's important to budget carefully, considering the higher costs across various essentials. The tax landscape also shifts; while DC has a notably higher income tax, especially for top earners, it benefits from a lower property tax rate. The economic environment changes too, from Pennsylvania's manufacturing and retail-driven economy to DC's focus on government and professional services. Comprehensive financial planning is crucial for this transition.
Political & Religious Comparison between Pennsylvania and DC
Moving from Pennsylvania to DC involves not just a change in scenery, but also a shift in the community's fabric. This comparison aims to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between Pennsylvania & DC . Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the culture and conversations you might encounter in your new home.
| Pennsylvania | DC |
|---|---|
Political Make-up Battleground StateStrongly Democratic | |
Local Politics Mixed; varies by regionLiberal-dominant | |
Religion Diverse; Christian majorityHigh religious diversity; less religious overall | |
When preparing for your move from Pennsylvania to DC, bear in mind that you'll be transitioning from a politically competitive state to one where liberal politics heavily predominate. Local politics in DC tend to reflect more progressive views compared to the varied political landscape across Pennsylvania's rural and urban areas. Additionally, while Pennsylvania has a strong Christian majority, DC's population is marked by a high degree of religious diversity, though it also has a significant portion of its residents identifying as less religious or secular. Understanding these facets can pave the way for a smoother adjustment to your new surroundings.
Education Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to DC
Moving from Pennsylvania to DC? Understanding the educational landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options from Pennsylvania to DC, ensuring you make informed decisions for your family.
| Pennsylvania | DC |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) Penn State University University of Pennsylvania Temple UniversityGeorgetown University George Washington University American University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Marshall Elementary (Pittsburgh) Albert M. Greenfield School (Philadelphia) Ad Prima Charter School (Philadelphia)Lafayette Elementary School Mann Elementary School Janney Elementary School (All in Washington DC) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia) Radnor Middle School (Radnor) Charles F. Patton Middle School (Kennett Square)Deal Middle School Hardy Middle School Stuart-Hobson Middle School (All in Washington DC) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia) Conestoga High School (Berwyn) Central High School (Philadelphia)School Without Walls Banneker High School McKinley Technology High School (All in Washington DC) | |
Top 3 private high schools The Haverford School (Haverford) The Shipley School (Bryn Mawr) Germantown Friends School (Philadelphia)Sidwell Friends School Georgetown Day School St. Albans School (All in Washington DC) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Baldwin School (Bryn Mawr) Friends' Central School (Wynnewood) The Agnes Irwin School (Rosemont)Sidwell Friends School Georgetown Day School Maret School (All in Washington DC) | |
Top 3 School Districts Tredyffrin-Easttown School District Radnor Township School District Lower Merion School DistrictThere is no school district system as DC is a single district under DC Public Schools (DCPS) | |
When looking at the specifics, it’s clear that both Pennsylvania and DC offer exceptional educational opportunities, but the environments and offerings differ. For instance, Pennsylvania's best colleges like Penn State University and University of Pennsylvania draw students nationwide, offering diverse programs. On the other hand, DC’s focus on politics and international relations makes Georgetown University and George Washington University unique for those fields. The presence of highly regarded private schools in both regions, such as The Haverford School in Pennsylvania and Sidwell Friends School in DC, denote the quality of private education. Understanding these nuances helps in making an informed choice for your family’s educational path when moving from Pennsylvania to DC.
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