Best Lancaster to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lancaster to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,686 mile move from California to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Lancaster to Washington DC moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Washington DC Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.03 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.75 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Meathead Movers | 7.22 | 5.82 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Lancaster to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,686 miles from Lancaster, CA to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $4,065 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lancaster to Washington DC move is roughly $9,828. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,725 | 300 ft³ | 9.08 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,065 | 450 ft³ | 9.03 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,738 | 750 ft³ | 8.98 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,828 | 1100 ft³ | 8.93 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,215 | 1600 ft³ | 8.88 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,902 | 1800 ft³ | 8.83 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Lancaster guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lancaster to Washington DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Speedwell Transportation Inc.
860 W. Avenue L8
Lancaster, CA, 93534
About Speedwell Transportation Inc.
Speedwell Transportation Inc. is a team of professional movers in Santa Clarita, CA with over 60 years of experience. The team...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1861478 / 673344 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Antelope Valley Van and Storage
602 E Ave R
Palmdale, CA, 93550
About Antelope Valley Van and Storage
Instead of memories of stress, you’ll remember moving day as a memorable experience with Antelope Valley Van and Storage, a moving...
Services
- Local Moves
- Intrastate Moves
- Interstate Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 34380 / 133696 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 13,629 (2024) |
Meathead Movers
2905 Unicorn Rd suite a
Bakersfield, CA, 93308
About Meathead Movers
Meathead Movers was founded by two high school brothers in 1997, and now handles 18,000 moves per year! From Eureka down...
Services
- Full Service Local Moving
- On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 921143 / 398077 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
| Registered Drivers | 87 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,188,444 (2023) |
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.
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
When making a big move, understanding your new city can be easier when comparing it to what you're familiar with. This comparison between Lancaster, CA & Washington DC, DC neighborhoods aims to help you find a similar vibe in your new surroundings, easing the transition and helping you feel at home faster.
| Lancaster | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Lancaster | Capitol Hill | Historic, community-focused |
| Quartz Hill | Cleveland Park | Suburban feel, green spaces |
| Rancho Vista | Petworth | Family-friendly, residential |
| Desert View Highlands | Woodridge | Quiet, suburban-like ambiance |
| East Lancaster | H Street Corridor | Vibrant, emerging arts scene |
| Lancaster Commerce Center | NoMa | Growing tech hub, modern amenities |
| Sun Village | Mount Pleasant | Diverse, close-knit community |
| Lake Los Angeles | Georgetown | Historic charm, upscale shopping |
| Roosevelt | Brookland | Artsy, educational institutions nearby |
| Antelope Acres | Takoma | Laid-back, eclectic vibe |
In transitioning from Lancaster, CA to Washington DC, you might find comfort in the familiar yet exciting parallels between neighborhoods. If you cherished the sprawling suburban feel of Quartz Hill, Cleveland Park in DC offers a similarly serene environment, rich with green spaces and a tight-knit community atmosphere. For those captivated by the vibrant arts scene in East Lancaster, the H Street Corridor in Washington DC presents an electrifying mix of culture, music, and culinary delights, with venues like the Atlas Performing Arts Center providing entertainment that rivals Lancaster's emerging arts landscape. Meanwhile, Lancaster Commerce Center's burgeoning tech scene finds its counterpart in NoMa, DC, where modern apartments, trendy eateries, and tech startups abound, mirroring the dynamic growth and opportunity many seek. Each neighborhood, from the historic charm of Georgetown paralleling Lake Los Angeles to the eclectic vibrancy of Takoma reflecting Antelope Acres, offers a slice of familiarity amidst the backdrop of your exciting new chapter in the capital.
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 Lancaster to Washington DC
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Washington DC, DC requires a balanced view to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight the challenges and benefits of relocating from the tranquil expanses of Lancaster to the bustling, history-rich streets of Washington DC. Here, you'll find an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this big move.
Lancaster, CA- Limited Job Market
- Extreme Heat
- Few Cultural Events
- Less Public Transit
- Lower Walkability
Washington DC, DC- Diverse Job Opportunities
- Milder Climate
- Rich Cultural Scene
- Extensive Public Transit
- High Walkability
Washington DC, DC- Higher Cost of Living
- Smaller Living Spaces
- Noisier Urban Life
- Light Pollution
- Larger Population
Lancaster, CA- Lower Cost of Living
- Spacious Properties
- Quiet Suburbs
- Starry Nights
- Close-knit Community
Transitioning from Lancaster, CA to Washington DC, DC offers a unique blend of pros and cons that hinge on personal priorities and lifestyle preferences. Lancaster's appeal lies in its spacious properties and serene desert landscape, perfect for those who appreciate quiet nights under starry skies and a close-knit community vibe. However, Washington DC beckons with its vibrant cultural scene, reflected in landmarks such as the National Portrait Gallery, the thrumming streets of Penn Quarter, and the scenic beauty of Rock Creek Park. Although the cost of living can be higher and the living spaces smaller, the trade-off includes access to an extensive public transit system and a wealth of diverse job opportunities. Ultimately, the move from Lancaster to Washington DC promises a dynamic shift towards urban living enriched with historical and cultural dimensions.
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Lancaster & Washington DC to showcase how food plays an integral part in understanding the culture and vibe of your new city. Knowing what culinary delights await you can help make your transition smoother and more flavorful.
| Lancaster | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Amish Chicken Pot Pie | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Scrapple | Mumbo Sauce Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Whoopie Pies | Jumbo Slice Pizza |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Pot Pie | Kimchi Tofu Stew |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Washington DC, the local cuisine reflects a rich tapestry of flavors and cultures. The famed Half-Smoke can be savored at spots like Ben's Chili Bowl, synonymous with the city's fast-casual dining scene. Meanwhile, the burgeoning vegan scene boasts innovative dishes such as the Kimchi Tofu Stew, with restaurants like Fancy Radish leading the charge in plant-based dining. Food trucks line the streets near landmarks and office buildings, offering everything from Korean BBQ tacos to gourmet grilled cheese, showcasing Washington DC's vibrant and eclectic foodie scene that caters to a variety of palates and dietary needs.
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding that perfect spot to dine can truly make a new city feel like home. This comparison aims to bridge the culinary gap, guiding you from the familiar flavors of Lancaster, CA, to your next beloved eateries in Washington DC, ensuring a seamless transition in your gastronomic journey.
| Lancaster | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Broken Bit Steakhouse | Medium Rare | Both offer a cozy, upscale dining experience with a focus on quality steaks. |
| LU&PE Mexican Restaurant | Oyamel Cocina Mexicana | Authentic Mexican dishes with a modern twist are the highlights at both places. |
| Giannini Bistro & Grill | Le Diplomate | European bistro vibe with a focus on meticulous preparation of dishes. |
| Azteca Mexican Restaurant | El Sol Restaurante & Tequileria | Both celebrate traditional Mexican cuisine in a casual and inviting atmosphere. |
| Am Thai Fusion Cuisine | Little Serow | Offering a unique take on Thai dishes, focused on fusion and authenticity. |
| Katz n’ Jammers Café | Founding Farmers | Both serve hearty American breakfasts and lunches in a homey setting. |
| The Lemon Leaf Café | Baked & Wired | A homely spot for exquisite pastries and a cozy caffeinated pick-me-up, similar in vibe and quality. |
| Broken Anchor Bar & Grill | The Salt Line | Both are waterfront establishments that draw in the crowd with their stunning views and seafood offerings. |
| YogurtLand | Frozenyo | When the craving for frozen yogurt hits, both spots offer a myriad of flavors and toppings to customize your treat. |
| SugarTwist Bakery | Buttercream Bakeshop | Both bakeries are beloved for their sweet treats, baking up everything from custom cakes to classic pastries. |
When you move to Washington DC from Lancaster, you'll discover that Medium Rare offers an atmosphere and steak quality that might remind you of the warm and upscale ambiance of The Broken Bit Steakhouse. For those who cherish the complex flavors of Mexican cuisine, Oyamel Cocina Mexicana provides an innovative twist similar to LU&PE Mexican Restaurant, but with a distinct DC flair. If your morning routine includes a comforting breakfast or a rich cup of coffee, transitioning from Katz n’ Jammers Café to Founding Farmers will feel like finding your new 'home away from home', blending the familiar with the excitement of exploring a new city's culinary scene.
Ready to start your move?
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. It’s crucial to understand how the housing characteristics of Lancaster, CA and Washington DC, DC compare . This comparison will illuminate differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle, providing a comprehensive view of what to expect.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch | Federal and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large backyards, Solar panels | Proximity to metro, Historic charm |
When examining the real estate landscapes of Lancaster, CA, and Washington DC, it’s evident that there are substantial differences not only in home prices and rent but also in lifestyle and architecture. For instance, homeowners in Lancaster often boast about large backyards and solar panels, highlighting the suburban feel and renewable energy interest prevalent in the area. On the other hand, the real estate market in Washington DC emphasizes homes' proximity to the metro and historic charm, catering to professionals who prioritize convenience and history. Walkability and bikeability scores significantly higher in Washington DC, aligning with its urban lifestyle rating of 9. This suggests a dynamic city life well-suited for those seeking an active, metropolitan environment compared to Lancaster's more relaxed suburban setting.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington DC, DC
1. Adams Morgan: Known for its vibrant street life and diverse culture, Adams Morgan is extremely pet-friendly, offering numerous pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks like the Walter Pierce Park where your furry friends can play.
2. Capitol Hill: Aside from the iconic U.S. Capitol and historic ambiance, Capitol Hill features spacious parks such as the Congressional Cemetery, which doubles as a dog park, providing a unique space for you and your pet to explore.
3. Dupont Circle: This neighborhood boasts a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, with several pet-friendly parks like the Dupont Circle Fountain, and businesses that cater to your pet's needs, making it an ideal place for pet lovers.
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another can significantly impact your daily life, especially when it comes to weather variations. Understanding how the weather in Lancaster, CA compares to Washington DC, DC is crucial for adapting to your new environment more comfortably. This comparison aims to prepare you for the climatic differences you'll encounter.
Lancaster, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lancaster, CA
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lancaster | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Adapting to a new climate involves understanding more than just average temperatures; factors like humidity, natural disasters, and air quality significantly affect daily life. In Washington DC, you'll experience higher humidity and more rainy days than in Lancaster, contributing to different types of seasonal allergies, primarily due to higher pollen and mold levels. Given Washington's east coast location, hurricanes and flooding become relevant natural disaster considerations, contrasting with Lancaster's risks of earthquakes and wildfires. This nuanced understanding of weather differences will help you prepare for your move from Lancaster to Washington DC.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lancaster to Washington DC
Moving from one location to another necessitates an understanding of how the cost of living and other financial aspects between Lancaster and Washington DC will compare. This chart aims to elucidate these differences thoroughly.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,242 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 1 to 13.3 | 4 to 8.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare | Government, Professional Services, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Relative | Lower |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Significant |
When moving from Lancaster to Washington DC, you'll notice a stark difference in the average household income, which is significantly higher in DC. This elevation in income matches the increased cost of living index, indicating that your expenses for housing, food, and transportation will likely be higher in the nation's capital. The discrepancy in state income and sales tax rates further highlights the financial adjustments you may need to make. Moreover, the shift in leading industries suggests a potential change in employment opportunities, which may require a career pivot or adjustment. Both cities present unique challenges and advantages in terms of affluence, poverty, and homelessness, reflecting broader socio-economic trends that could impact your living experience.
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Lancaster, CA, to Washington DC, DC, it's essential to understand the differences in the communities you're transitioning between. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Lancaster & Washington DC to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscapes you'll encounter in your new home.
| Lancaster | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | More balanced, with a notable conservative presence | Heavily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed with an emphasis on suburban and rural concerns | Urban issues, Democratic stronghold |
| Religion | More diverse, with a significant Christian community | Pluralistic, with a range of religious communities |
The political landscape you're moving into in Washington DC is markedly different from Lancaster, CA. Washington DC is known for its strong Democratic leanings, reflecting in its local politics which are heavily focused on urban issues and governance. By contrast, Lancaster presents a more balanced political makeup with substantial conservative presence. This difference might influence your experience of community engagement and political dialogue. On the religious front, both cities host a diverse range of religious communities. However, Lancaster has a significant Christian base, whereas Washington DC offers a more pluralistic religious scene, accommodating various faiths and beliefs. This diversity in both politics and religion contributes to the unique cultural fabric of each city.
Lancaster vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Washington DC, DC, this comparison will provide a clearer picture of the daily commute and traffic scene. Understanding the differences in driving and transiting in these two cities will help you better plan your day-to-day travels.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 - 35 | 30 - 45 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Comparing Lancaster to Washington DC, the most significant difference lies in the necessity of owning a car. While in Lancaster, having a car is almost essential due to limited public transit options, in Washington DC, you can comfortably rely on an extensive public transit system for your daily commute. With Washington DC's higher traffic congestion scores, it's actually more convenient to use the Metro or buses. Additionally, the availability and efficiency of public transit in DC significantly reduce the need for a car, making it a more environmentally friendly and potentially cost-effective choice for getting around. This dynamic shift in how one navigates daily life marks a significant adjustment for those moving from Lancaster to Washington DC.
Additional Resources
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