Best Lancaster to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Lancaster to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,461 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Lancaster to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Lancaster compared to Pittsburgh. 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.

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Best Lancaster to Pittsburgh Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pittsburgh Moving9.629.51Authorized For HHGContact
2Meta Movers9.129.43Authorized For HHGContact
3Speedwell Transportation Inc.8.037.08Authorized For HHGContact
4Antelope Valley Van and Storage7.757.02Authorized For HHGContact
5Meathead Movers7.225.82Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Lancaster to Pittsburgh

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,461 miles from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $3,874 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lancaster to Pittsburgh move is roughly $9,360. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,598300 ft³8.66
1 Bedroom$3,874450 ft³8.61
2 Bedrooms$6,419750 ft³8.56
3 Bedrooms$9,3601100 ft³8.51
4 Bedrooms$13,5341600 ft³8.46
5+ Bedrooms$15,1361800 ft³8.41
*Please note: These California to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Pennsylvania. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster guide.

Compare the 5 Best Lancaster to Pittsburgh Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.62/10
based on 1,264+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.12/10
based on 336+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Speedwell Transportation Inc. Logo

Speedwell Transportation Inc.

Good8.03/10
based on 90+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1861478 / 673344

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Antelope Valley Van and Storage Logo

Antelope Valley Van and Storage

Good7.75/10
based on 165+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

34380 / 133696

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved13,629 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Meathead Movers Logo

Meathead Movers

7.22/10
based on 708+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/2/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

921143 / 398077

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers87
Total Annual Miles Moved1,188,444 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To make this transition easier, we have created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Lancaster, CA & Pittsburgh, PA. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Pittsburgh that shares the spirit and vibe of your old haunt in Lancaster.

LancasterPittsburghHow They're Similar
West LancasterShadysideSimilar suburban feel, boutique shops
Quartz HillSquirrel HillQuiet, family-friendly with parks
Rancho VistaPoint BreezeUpscale, historic homes
Downtown LancasterLawrencevilleVibrant arts scene, dining options
East LancasterBloomfieldDiverse, working-class charm
Desert ViewHighland ParkLarge park space, residential
Lancaster VillageGreentreeQuiet, suburban atmosphere
WestwoodBrooklineFamily-oriented, community-focused
Antelope AcresSheradenSpacious, with a rural feel
RedmanMount WashingtonScenic views, tight-knit community

In Shadyside, you’ll discover a blend of suburban tranquility and urban sophistication reminiscent of West Lancaster's vibe, complete with unique boutique shops and cozy eateries like Walnut Street. Squirrel Hill, comparable to Quartz Hill, offers a serene environment perfect for families, enriched by greenspaces such as Frick Park. Lawrenceville mirrors Downtown Lancaster’s art scene and social atmosphere, featuring a rich array of gastronomic delights and galleries. The historical charm of Point Breeze captures the essence of Rancho Vista’s upscale living, boasting stately homes and proximity to institutions like the Carnegie Museums. Each Pittsburgh neighborhood, in its unique way, complements the atmosphere of its Lancaster counterpart, facilitating a smoother transition for newcomers seeking familiarity in their new environment.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Lancaster to Pittsburgh

Moving from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA presents unique challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to reveal an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA, helping you weigh your decision more effectively.

CONs
PROs
Lancaster, CA iconLancaster, CA
  • Limited public transport
  • High summer heat
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Scarce green spaces
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Robust public transport
  • Cooler summer
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Abundant parks
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Higher living costs
  • More cloudy days
  • Busier city life
  • More traffic
Lancaster, CA iconLancaster, CA
  • Affordable housing
  • Clear night skies
  • Quiet neighborhoods
  • Less traffic

While Lancaster offers the charm of clear night skies and quiet neighborhoods, Pittsburgh presents a vibrant urban scene with robust public transport options like the Port Authority of Allegheny County, offering extensive bus and light rail systems. You'll find a notable difference in green spaces. Pittsburgh boasts numerous parks, such as the expansive Schenley Park and the lush Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, compared to Lancaster's scarcer outdoor venues. Additionally, the cultural diversity in Pittsburgh enriches the city life with a variety of restaurants, like the renowned Primanti Bros., and events that showcase international cultures, making it a melting pot of experiences unlike Lancaster's more homogeneous atmosphere. Moving to Pittsburgh means embracing busier city life but also enjoying the benefits of greater cultural diversity and accessibility to green spaces for recreation and relaxation.

Lancaster vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Lancaster & Pittsburgh to give you a glimpse into the food culture of both cities. Understanding local cuisine is essential in appreciating what it’s like to live in an area, helping you settle into your new home with ease.

LancasterPittsburgh
Most iconic local food itemChicken Pot PiePrimanti Bros. Sandwich
Most popular meat dishPork and SauerkrautPierogi
Most popular street food itemWhoopie PiesPolish Hill Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodSeitan StewTofu Scramble
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lancaster Central Market
  • Plain & Fancy
  • Luca
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • Meat & Potatoes
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When considering the food scene in Pittsburgh, you'll notice a vibrant array of choices that mirror the city's diverse cultural heritage. For instance, the iconic Primanti Bros. Sandwich, stacked high with fries and slaw right between the slices of bread, can be found in the Strip District, offering a taste of what locals love. The city is also home to a burgeoning vegan scene, with neighborhoods like Lawrenceville featuring innovative plant-based eateries. For those interested in the cutting-edge of culinary exploration, Pittsburgh's food truck scene around Schenley Plaza presents a daily festival of flavors, catering to every palate from traditional Pierogi to adventurous fusion dishes.

Lancaster vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making any place feel like home. By comparing top Lancaster restaurants to Pittsburgh counterparts , this guide facilitates the discovery of new favorite eateries for those relocating from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA . Through this comparison, seamlessly transition your palate and continue to enjoy remarkable dining experiences.

LancasterPittsburghWhat You'll Love
Broken Bit SteakhouseHyde Park Prime SteakhouseOffers a high-end dining experience with premium steaks
Spice KingTaste of IndiaKnown for authentic flavors and diverse Indian cuisine
Kinetic Brewing CompanyEast End Brewing CompanyBoth are beloved local breweries with a focus on community
Lemon Leaf CafeNicky's Thai KitchenOffers a casual dining experience with a focus on authenticity
Rustic Leaf BistroThe Porch at SchenleyKnown for farm-to-table meals in a laid-back atmosphere
The Modern Tea RoomDobra TeaA spot for tea lovers seeking a tranquil space with a vast selection of teas
Giannini Bistro & GrillDiAnoia's EateryBoth offer a cozy Italian dining experience with a warm ambiance
Sugar Twist BakeryPrantl's BakeryFamous for their almond torte, they offer a variety of baked goods
YogurtlandMillie's Homemade Ice CreamFor those with a sweet tooth wanting homemade treats
BBQ BulliesPittsburgh Barbecue CompanyBoth are praised for their authentic barbecue flavors

Delve into the culinary scene of Pittsburgh with establishments that mirror the variety and quality found in Lancaster. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, akin to Lancaster's Broken Bit Steakhouse, promises an elegant affair with their meticulously prepared steaks, ideal for special occasions or a lavish dine-out. For those missing the vibrant, authentic flavors of Spice King, Taste of India in Pittsburgh stands as a beacon of traditional Indian cuisine, offering a rich palette of spices and dishes. Lastly, if the community-focused and congenial atmosphere of Kinetic Brewing Company is what you're looking for, East End Brewing Company will welcome you with open arms and an impressive selection of craft beers, encapsulating the spirit of Lancaster’s local favorite in Pittsburgh’s thriving beer scene.

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Lancaster vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a critical factor when considering a move, especially when comparing two distinctly different locales like Lancaster, CA, and Pittsburgh, PA. Understanding the housing landscape, including cost, walkability, and lifestyle between Lancaster and Pittsburgh , will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonLancasterPittsburgh
Typical Architecture StyleModern and RanchVictorian and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious layouts, Large yardsHistoric charm, Close proximity to amenities

When comparing Lancaster and Pittsburgh, the stark contrast in median home prices and the types of architecture reflect the unique character of each city. Lancaster, with its modern and ranch-style homes, offers spacious layouts and large yards typical of more suburban settings. On the other hand, Pittsburgh's historic charm, with predominant Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, caters to those seeking an urban lifestyle with close access to amenities. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Pittsburgh indicate a more compact city layout conducive to pedestrian and bike traffic, contrasting with Lancaster's dependent car culture. This move not only entails a change in scenery but also a different way of living, promising a vibrant urban experience in Pittsburgh compared to a quieter, more spread-out life in Lancaster.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Lawrenceville: This neighborhood boasts a vibrant community with easy access to dog parks and pet-friendly restaurants like The Vandal, making it perfect for you and your furry friend.

2. Shadyside: Known for its walkable streets and a welcoming atmosphere for pets, Shadyside offers numerous pet stores such as Petagogy and outdoor areas, ideal for keeping your pet healthy and happy.

3. Squirrel Hill: With its close proximity to Frick Park, Squirrel Hill provides endless trails and green spaces for you and your pet to explore, alongside pet-friendly cafes and community activities.

Lancaster vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations

When preparing to move, understanding the weather differences between Lancaster, CA, and Pittsburgh, PA is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will illuminate how varying conditions can impact your lifestyle and what to expect as you relocate.

Summer icon
94°F / 61°F

Lancaster, CA

83°F / 63°F

Pittsburgh, PA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 33°F

Lancaster, CA

37°F / 21°F

Pittsburgh, PA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
6.3

Lancaster, CA

38.19

Pittsburgh, PA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
2

Lancaster, CA

41.9

Pittsburgh, PA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLancasterPittsburgh
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from the dry, sunny climate of Lancaster to the more variable and humid conditions in Pittsburgh will be a notable change. You'll experience fewer sunny days and significantly more precipitation throughout the year in Pittsburgh. Winters can be particularly challenging, with Pittsburgh receiving nearly twenty times the snowfall of Lancaster. Additionally, the humidity in Pittsburgh can make both hot and cold temperatures feel more extreme, so you'll want to prepare with appropriate clothing and home humidifiers or dehumidifiers depending on the season.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lancaster to Pittsburgh

When embarking on a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your financial landscape might change. This comparison is designed to highlight the financial differences and similarities you'll encounter when moving from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA .

ComparisonLancasterPittsburgh
Avg. Household Income$64,242$57,821
Cost of Living Index136.491.5
State Income Tax13.3 (max)3.07
Avg. Property Tax0.772.01
Avg. Sales Tax9.57
Top 3 IndustriesAerospace, Manufacturing, HealthcareHealthcare, Education, Technology
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyHighMedium
HomelessnessNotableModerate

When you move from Lancaster to Pittsburgh, you'll find that the average household income is slightly lower in Pittsburgh. However, the cost of living in Pittsburgh is also notably lower, with a Cost of Living Index that is advantageous compared to Lancaster. Pennsylvania's state income tax is significantly lower than California's max rate, which can lead to considerable savings. Nevertheless, Pittsburgh has a higher average property tax, which might affect your budget depending on your housing situation. These financial contrasts between Lancaster and Pittsburgh are essential to consider for your future budget and lifestyle adjustments.

Lancaster vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison

As you consider moving from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA, understanding the community you're moving into is crucial. This comparison aims to provide a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents between Lancaster & Pittsburgh, helping you grasp the local culture and community vibes seamlessly.

LancasterPittsburgh
Political Make-upLean ConservativelyLean Progressively
Local PoliticsModerate RepublicanStrong Democratic
ReligionChristian MajorityChristian Majority with significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities

When moving to a new city, the political orientation can often give you a hint of the community's priorities and values. Lancaster generally leans more conservatively, while Pittsburgh's residents have a stronger inclination towards progressive ideals, particularly in social policies and environmental concerns. The religious landscape also shifts noticeably as you move from Lancaster to Pittsburgh. While both cities have a Christian majority, Pittsburgh offers a more diverse spiritual environment, with well-established Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, reflecting its broader spectrum of cultural and religious acceptance.

Lancaster vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Lancaster, CA to Pittsburgh, PA involves significant changes in your daily travel. This guide serves to compare the traffic and transportation options between Lancaster & Pittsburgh, helping you understand what to expect from your daily commute in these cities.

ComparisonLancasterPittsburgh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)30-3525-30
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultEasier

When comparing Lancaster and Pittsburgh, you'll find that Pittsburgh offers more robust public transportation options, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. The Port Authority of Allegheny County provides comprehensive bus and light rail services throughout Pittsburgh, greatly easing the daily commute. While traffic congestion in Pittsburgh scores higher, indicating busier roads, the availability and efficiency of public transit help mitigate the impact on your daily life. In contrast, Lancaster's public transit system is less extensive, rendering car dependency more significant for daily affairs.

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