Best Lancaster to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lancaster to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,719 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Lancaster to Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), 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 Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pineapple Movers | 9.44 | 9.62 | 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 Philadelphia
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,719 miles from Lancaster, CA to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $4,093 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lancaster to Philadelphia move is roughly $9,896. 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 | $2,744 | 300 ft³ | 9.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,093 | 450 ft³ | 9.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,785 | 750 ft³ | 9.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,896 | 1100 ft³ | 9.00 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,314 | 1600 ft³ | 8.95 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,014 | 1800 ft³ | 8.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Lancaster guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lancaster to Philadelphia Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Pineapple Movers
Collingswood, NJ, 08108
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579435 / 1208543 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2022) |
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. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, it can be helpful to find a new neighborhood that mirrors the comfort of your old one. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Lancaster, CA & Philadelphia, PA to ease your transition. Discover which Philadelphia neighborhoods parallel those in Lancaster, CA, and start feeling at home even before you move.
| Lancaster | Philadelphia | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Lancaster | Manayunk | Trendy, vibrant nightlife |
| Desert View Highlands | Chestnut Hill | Lush greenery, affluent |
| Quartz Hill | Roxborough | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Rancho Vista | Queen Village | Historic charm, community vibe |
| Westside Lancaster | Fishtown | Artistic, trendy community |
| Eastside Lancaster | Kensington | Diverse, artsy, vibrant community |
| Redman | Old City | Rich in history, cultural landmarks |
| Sunrise | Wynnefield | Residential, close to parks |
| Lancaster Boulevard | South Street | Bustling, eclectic shopping district |
| Del Sur | Mount Airy | Diverse, tight-knit community vibes |
Exploring your new city can be an exciting experience, especially when you find areas that resonate with your preferences and lifestyle. For instance, if you’ve enjoyed the trendy and vibrant nightlife of West Lancaster, then Manayunk in Philadelphia will captivate you with its lively bars and unique eating establishments along Main Street. Similarly, the historic charm and sense of community in Rancho Vista find a parallel in Queen Village, where cobbled streets and indie boutiques evoke a strong neighborhood feel. For those who admire the blend of diverse, artsy vibes in Eastside Lancaster, Kensington in Philadelphia offers a similar atmosphere with its artist lofts, coffee shops, and vibrant murals painting the neighborhood's industrial buildings. Each Philadelphia neighborhood presents a unique blend of characteristics making it a great new home for former Lancaster residents looking for familiarity in a new setting.
Things to Do in Philadelphia
Tour the Liberty Bell Center- Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Eat at Reading Terminal Market
- Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
- Stroll through Longwood Gardens
- Tour Eastern State Penitentiary
- Bike on Schuylkill Banks
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Lancaster to Philadelphia
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Philadelphia, PA presents a significant change, offering both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you to weigh the pros and cons comprehensively .
Lancaster, CA- Higher temperatures
- Isolated location
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer cultural venues
Philadelphia, PA- Seasonal weather
- Vibrant city life
- Rich food scene
- Abundance of arts
Philadelphia, PA- Higher expenses
- Urban density
- Noisier surroundings
- Heavy congestion
Lancaster, CA- Lower cost of living
- Open spaces
- Quiet living
- Minimal traffic
Moving from Lancaster to Philadelphia introduces you to the city’s vibrant heartbeat, from the historic charm of Independence Hall to the bustling aisles of Reading Terminal Market. Although the urban density of Philadelphia might take some adjustment, coming from Lancaster’s quieter and more open spaces, the cultural and gastronomic enrichment is unparalleled. You'll have the chance to explore diverse neighborhoods, like the artistically rich Fishtown or the historic streets of Old City, each offering unique restaurants, parks, and community events. Despite the higher cost of living, Philadelphia’s rich historical sights, alongside modern conveniences and an extensive array of arts and entertainment options, present a compelling case for making the City of Brotherly Love your new home.
Lancaster vs. Philadelphia Food Guide
Food is an integral part of experiencing a city's culture and lifestyle. When moving, understanding the local cuisine is essential for a smooth transition. This guide highlights the comparison of the local cuisine between Lancaster & Philadelphia , helping you make an informed decision about the food scene in your new home.
| Lancaster | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pennsylvania Dutch Pie | Philly Cheesesteak |
| Most popular meat dish | Schnitz un knepp | Ribeye steak sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Whoopie pies | Soft Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan whoopie pies | Vegan cheesesteak |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Lancaster, the Pennsylvania Dutch culture deeply influences the local cuisine, offering unique dishes like Schnitz un knepp. The city's connection to its Amish heritage is evident in its food, with places like Shady Maple Smorgasbord offering a feast that harkens back to simpler times. Moving to Philadelphia introduces you to the bustling food scene where the iconic Philly Cheesesteak reigns supreme. Beyond cheesesteaks, Philadelphia's food scene is diverse, with a vibrant array of street food options like soft pretzels and an increasing number of vegan alternatives such as the popular vegan cheesesteak. Locations like Reading Terminal Market offer a taste of this diversity, providing a one-stop-shop for food lovers to explore. Both cities offer unique, mouth-watering experiences that reflect their culture and history through food.
Lancaster vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding a new go-to restaurant can turn a new city into your home. This restaurant comparison between Lancaster, CA, and Philadelphia, PA, aims to ease your move by guiding you toward your next favorite dining spots, based on where you loved to eat back in Lancaster.
| Lancaster | Philadelphia | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Broken Bit Steakhouse | Barclay Prime | Upscale steakhouse experience with a creative menu |
| Giannini Bistro & Grill | Zahav | Modern Israeli restaurant offering unique and flavorful dishes |
| Marie Callender's Restaurant & Bakery | Beiler's Bakery | Known for homemade pies and a cozy atmosphere |
| Kinetic Brewing Company | Yards Brewing Co. | Offers a selection of craft beers with a vibrant local scene |
| Crazy Otto's Diner | Honey's Sit 'n Eat | Homey spot for hearty classic American comfort food |
| Spicy Thai | Kalaya Thai Kitchen | Authentic Thai cuisine with a strong commitment to flavors |
| RAVPower Sushi | Morimoto | High-end Japanese restaurant for an exquisite sushi experience |
| El Toreo West | El Vez | Bustling Mexican spot known for inventive dishes and vibrant atmosphere |
| BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse | City Tap House | Offers a wide selection of beers with upscale pub fare |
| Lemon Leaf Cafe | Cafe La Maude | Cozy cafe with a unique French-Lebanese fusion menu |
While Lancaster and Philadelphia offer distinct dining landscapes, the city of Philadelphia presents opportunities to explore flavors that mirror the variety found in Lancaster. For example, if you've enjoyed the wholesome family vibes and hearty meals at Crazy Otto's Diner, Honey's Sit 'n Eat in Philadelphia will embrace you with similar classic American dishes in a comforting setting. On the other hand, if your taste buds are inclined towards more exotic flavors, Kalaya Thai Kitchen's authentic Thai offerings will transport you back to your evenings at Spicy Thai, ensuring the transition to your new city is flavored with comforting and familiar tastes alongside new culinary adventures.
Ready to start your move?
Lancaster vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's crucial to understand the real estate dynamics of your current and future homes. This comparison between Lancaster, CA, and Philadelphia, PA, highlights key aspects such as costs, styles, and lifestyle to aid in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Desert Ranch | Colonial and Row Houses |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, mountain views | Historical landmarks, proximity to public transit |
When comparing Lancaster and Philadelphia, it's evident that both cities offer distinct living experiences. Lancaster's real estate market leans towards more affordable housing options, with modern and desert ranch-style homes characterizing the area. The city's spacious yards and mountain views appeal to those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle. In contrast, Philadelphia's urban environment is rich in history and culture, with colonial and row house architecture prevalent throughout the city. Its higher walkability and bikeability scores, along with the emphasis on historical landmarks and easy access to public transit in real estate listings, demonstrate a more dynamic urban lifestyle. These factors depict Philadelphia as an enticing option for individuals craving a vibrant city life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA
1. Manayunk: With its easy access to the Wissahickon Valley Park trails and numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, Manayunk is a paradise for pet owners.
2. Fairmount: Known for its proximity to the expansive Fairmount Park, this neighborhood offers endless green spaces and dog parks for your furry friends to explore.
3. Queen Village: This community shines with its welcoming attitude towards pets, featuring several pet stores, doggy daycares, and the beloved Mario Lanza Park where local dogs love to play.
Lancaster vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another can dramatically change your daily life, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the weather in Lancaster, CA compares to Philadelphia, PA is crucial to prepare for your relocation. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences and what you might need to adjust to.
Lancaster, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lancaster, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lancaster | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Relocating from Lancaster, CA, to Philadelphia, PA, you'll notice significant changes in weather. Philadelphia experiences a higher humidity level throughout the year, which might take some getting used to if you're coming from the drier climate of Lancaster. Additionally, prepare for more annual precipitation, including a significant increase in snowfall, which averages about 22 inches in Philadelphia compared to just 2 inches in Lancaster. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your wardrobe and outdoor plans accordingly. Lastly, the difference in natural disasters, with Lancaster prone to earthquakes and wildfires and Philadelphia to snowstorms and hurricanes, might impact your emergency preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lancaster to Philadelphia
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Lancaster compares to Philadelphia. This understanding will help you manage your budget effectively and set realistic expectations for your new life. Here, we'll dive into various financial aspects to give you a comprehensive view.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,242 | $52,899 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 126.5 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 3.07 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.29 | 0.99 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Agriculture, Manufacturing | Education, Healthcare, Professional Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | Mixed |
| Poverty | Notable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Widespread |
While both Lancaster and Philadelphia offer unique economic landscapes, notable differences in the cost of living, taxes, and the job market can significantly impact your financial well-being. For instance, despite the higher average household income in Lancaster, Philadelphia's lower state income tax might offer some relief, albeit with a higher cost of living index. Additionally, the major industries in each city could influence your career prospects. Philadelphia's focus on education, healthcare, and professional services contrasts with Lancaster's aerospace, agriculture, and manufacturing base. Understanding these nuances is key to making informed decisions about your relocation and achieving financial stability in your new home.
Lancaster vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Philadelphia, PA involves adapting to new surroundings and communities. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Lancaster, CA, and Philadelphia, PA , offering insights into local politics, general political leanings, and religious landscapes in both cities.
| Lancaster | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic development and public safety | Emphasis on social justice and urban sustainability |
| Religion | Christian majority, with notable representations of other faiths | Diverse religious landscape, strong presence of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and other faiths |
The political landscape of Lancaster leans conservative, reflecting the city's focus on economic development and public safety. In contrast, Philadelphia's politics tend towards liberalism, with a strong emphasis on social justice issues and urban sustainability. The religious makeup of Lancaster is predominantly Christian, but it also includes representations from a variety of other faiths. Philadelphia offers a more diverse religious landscape, embracing a wide array of faiths including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and others, reflecting its rich cultural diversity. This shift in both political and religious environments could provide you with new perspectives and experiences.
Lancaster vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Philadelphia, PA introduces significant changes in the way you will experience daily commutes, specifically understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Lancaster & Philadelphia helps in preparing for the new urban environment. This guide aims to provide a clearer picture of what to expect on the roads and when using public transit.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30-35 | 32-38 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Lancaster, CA, offers a somewhat relaxed commute with less traffic congestion, the city scores low on public transit options, making a personal vehicle almost a necessity for daily commutes. In contrast, Philadelphia boasts a robust public transport infrastructure, which is reflected in its higher score for transit availability. Despite experiencing more traffic congestion, the extensive network of buses, subways, and trolleys in Philadelphia allows residents to navigate the city conveniently without relying on a car. Adjusting to these changes will involve embracing public transit for your daily commute, which could lead to more sustainable living and potentially saving on transportation costs in the long run.
Additional Resources
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