Best California to Pennsylvania Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to Pennsylvania and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,735 mile CA to PA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 419 California to Pennsylvania 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to Pennsylvania. 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 California to Pennsylvania Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to Pennsylvania
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,735 miles from California to Pennsylvania will cost on average $4,107 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to PA move is roughly $9,929. 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 in California and dropoff in Pennsylvania 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 California to Pennsylvania movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,753 | 300 ft³ | 9.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,107 | 450 ft³ | 9.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,808 | 750 ft³ | 9.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,929 | 1100 ft³ | 9.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,363 | 1600 ft³ | 8.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,068 | 1800 ft³ | 8.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pennsylvania to California guide.
Popular California to Pennsylvania Moving Destinations
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Compare the 6 Best CA to PA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Chico, CA, 95973
About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
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...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
EverSafe Moving Co.
8701 Torresdale Ave
Philadelphia, PA, 19136
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...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261303 / 771755 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2021) |
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.
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Pennsylvania
Moving can be a significant life change, and it's vital to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from California to Pennsylvania . By comparing and contrasting the pros and cons, you can make a more informed choice about whether this move is right for you.
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Wildfire risk
- Higher taxes
Pennsylvania- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Fewer natural disasters
- Lower taxes
Pennsylvania- Fewer beaches
- Cold winters
- Smaller cities
- Less tech focus
California- Gorgeous beaches
- Mild winters
- Vibrant cities
- Innovative tech scene
While considering the move from California to Pennsylvania, you'll find distinct differences in lifestyle and environment. Pennsylvania, with its abundant historical sights like Independence Hall in Philadelphia and the scenic beauty of regions like the Pocono Mountains, offers a blend of urban and natural attractions. The state's cost of living allows for a more relaxed lifestyle, potentially in a spacious, suburban neighborhood or even a rural setting, without sacrificing the convenience of city amenities. In contrast, California's unmatched coastline, including destinations like Santa Monica Beach, and its role as a hub of innovation and entertainment, present unique advantages. Yet, for many, Pennsylvania's serene parks, like Pine Grove Furnace State Park, burgeoning restaurant scenes in cities like Pittsburgh, and overall quality of life provide compelling reasons to make the move.
California vs. Pennsylvania Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Pennsylvania, highlighting the significance of food in local culture and living experience. As you plan your move, this analysis will help you get acquainted with the culinary scene awaiting you.
| California | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Philly Cheesesteak |
| Most popular meat dish | Trip-tip Steak | Pittsburgh Ham BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Mushroom Soup |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
California's culinary scene is as diverse as its geography, with The French Laundry in the Napa Valley offering a high-end dining experience and Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles serving up soul food classics. On the other hand, Pennsylvania is home to comfort foods and hearty meals with places like Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, offering a plethora of diverse cuisines under one roof. Pennsylvania’s iconic Primanti Brothers, famed for its sandwich loaded with French fries and coleslaw, showcases the state's love for fusion and innovation in traditional foods. Both states offer robust foodie scenes, but California takes the lead in vegan-friendly options and health consciousness, reflecting its coastal, fitness-minded culture.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Pennsylvania Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, and knowing how California and Pennsylvania compare in terms of housing can significantly influence your decision. From costs and architectural styles to walkability and urban lifestyle, this comparison aims to provide valuable insights for your move.
| Comparison | California | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish Revival | Colonial, Dutch Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views, Eco-friendly features | Historic details, Spacious yards |
When examining the costs of living between California and Pennsylvania, the stark contrasts in median home prices and rent are immediate indicators of Pennsylvania's comparative affordability. While California's housing market is dominated by modern and Spanish Revival architecture that caters to a more luxurious and eco-conscious buyer, Pennsylvania offers a rich tapestry of Colonial and Dutch colonial styles, reflecting the state's deep historical roots. The mention of ocean views and eco-friendly features in California's real estate listings contrasts sharply with Pennsylvania's focus on historic details and spacious yards, hinting at the different lifestyles and priorities of residents in each state. Ultimately, your preference for a vibrant urban lifestyle versus a more laid-back or historically rich environment could very well decide your ideal destination.
California vs. Pennsylvania Weather Considerations
If you're planning to move, understanding the climate differences between California and Pennsylvania is crucial. Weather can significantly affect your daily life, and being prepared for these changes ensures a smoother transition to your new home.
California
Pennsylvania
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
Pennsylvania
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
Pennsylvania
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
Pennsylvania
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Variable, often poor in cities | Generally moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Switching from California's dry and sunny climate to Pennsylvania's more varied seasonal weather means adjusting to colder winters and less sunshine. Pennsylvania experiences more humidity and significantly more annual rainfall, leading to lush landscapes but also higher levels of certain allergens. The stark difference in winter temperatures and snowfall can be challenging, requiring a wardrobe suited to colder climates and potentially a different approach to daily activities during the colder months.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Pennsylvania
When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're entering. This comparison aims to illuminate how moving from California to Pennsylvania impacts your wallet by examining key economic indicators. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | California | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $71,798 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 99.7 |
| State Income Tax | 1% - 13.3% | 3.07% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 1.50% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.56% | 6.34% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Higher than average | Average |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When moving from California to Pennsylvania, you'll notice a significant change in the cost of living, with Pennsylvania being considerably more affordable. However, this comes with a trade-off in average household income, which is higher in California. The lower cost of living in Pennsylvania is complemented by a flat state income tax rate, offering simplicity compared to California's progressive tax system. Additionally, while Pennsylvania has a higher average property tax rate, the overall housing costs remain lower than California's. These financial factors are crucial in planning your move and ensuring your new state aligns with your economic expectations and lifestyle.
California vs. Pennsylvania Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between California & Pennsylvania to help understand the differences in the political and religious makeup of these states. This guide aims to offer you insights into what you might expect when moving from one state to the other.
| California | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic majority | Swing state |
| Local Politics | Liberal policies, especially in urban areas | Mix of conservative and liberal policies, depending on the area |
| Religion | More religiously unaffiliated | Higher percentage of Christian affiliation |
While California is known for its Democratic majority and liberal policies, especially in urban areas such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, Pennsylvania presents a more complex political landscape as a swing state. The political makeup in Pennsylvania can vary significantly from one area to another, with urban areas like Philadelphia leaning towards liberal policies, while rural areas tend to be more conservative. On the religious front, you'll find that California has a higher percentage of residents who identify as religiously unaffiliated, in contrast to Pennsylvania, where there's a stronger presence of Christian-affiliated communities. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the social and political climate in your new home state.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Pennsylvania
Moving across the country can introduce dramatic changes in your life, especially when it comes to education. By comparing schooling options from California to Pennsylvania, this guide aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Pennsylvania, making your transition as smooth as possible.
| California | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UCLA UC Berkeley Stanford UniversityUniversity of Pennsylvania Penn State University Carnegie Mellon University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Point Vicente Elementary School - Rancho Palos Verdes Chabot Elementary - Oakland La Cañada Elementary - La Cañada FlintridgeAdlai E. Stevenson Elementary School - Pittsburgh Whitemarsh Elementary - Lafayette Hill Makefield Elementary School - Yardley | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Mill Valley Middle School - Mill Valley Manhattan Beach Middle School - Manhattan Beach Sierra Vista Middle School - IrvineRadnor Middle School - Wayne Welsh Valley Middle School - Narberth Tredyffrin/Easttown Middle School - Berwyn | |
Top 3 High Schools Henry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto Troy High School - Fullerton Palo Alto High School - Palo AltoJulia R. Masterman Secondary School - Philadelphia Conestoga Senior High School - Berwyn North Allegheny Senior High School - Wexford | |
Top 3 private high schools Harvard-Westlake School - Los Angeles The Bishop's School - La Jolla Marlborough School - Los AngelesThe Haverford School - Haverford Shady Side Academy - Pittsburgh Germantown Friends School - Philadelphia | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Webb Schools - Claremont Viewpoint School - Calabasas Polytechnic School - PasadenaThe Agnes Irwin School - Rosemont The Baldwin School - Bryn Mawr Friends' Central School - Wynnewood | |
Top 3 School Districts Palo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District La Cañada Unified School DistrictTredyffrin-Easttown School District Lower Merion School District Radnor Township School District | |
Exploring detailed comparisons, you'll find that both California and Pennsylvania boast prestigious institutions at every educational level, but the cultural and logistical aspects of each state's top schools may vary. For instance, schools like UCLA and University of Pennsylvania not only reflect high academic standards but also significant historical and cultural impacts in their respective areas. Private schools such as The Haverford School in Pennsylvania and The Bishop's School in California are recognized for their rigorous academics along with diverse extracurricular opportunities. School districts like Palo Alto Unified in California and Tredyffrin-Easttown in Pennsylvania are celebrated for their innovative programs and robust support systems, making both states exceptional places for educational pursuits. These insights can inform your decisions as you consider the educational atmosphere and opportunities that best align with your family's needs.
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