Best Raleigh to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Lancaster and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,540 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 Raleigh to Lancaster 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 Raleigh Moving Company), 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 Raleigh compared to Lancaster. 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 Raleigh to Lancaster Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.03 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.75 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Lancaster
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,540 miles from Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA will cost on average $3,941 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Lancaster move is roughly $9,524. 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 | $2,642 | 300 ft³ | 8.81 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,941 | 450 ft³ | 8.76 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,531 | 750 ft³ | 8.71 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,524 | 1100 ft³ | 8.66 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,773 | 1600 ft³ | 8.61 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,405 | 1800 ft³ | 8.56 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lancaster to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Lancaster Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of Raleigh, NC & Lancaster, CA local neighborhoods . By identifying neighborhoods in Lancaster that share similarities with your favorites in Raleigh, you can find a new home that feels just right.
| Raleigh | Lancaster | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Oakwood | West Lancaster | Historic homes, tight-knit community feel |
| North Hills | Quartz Hill | Shopping & dining options, family-friendly |
| Cameron Village | Antelope Acres | Mix of residential & commerce, open spaces |
| Boylan Heights | Desert View Highlands | Unique homes, artsy vibe |
| Five Points | Rancho Vista | Vibrant community, local parks and restaurants |
| Warehouse District | Lancaster Blvd | Arts, dining, and entertainment hub |
| Glenwood South | Westside Lancaster | Nightlife and dining |
| Mordecia | East Lancaster | Historic character, community-oriented |
| Brier Creek | Lake Los Angeles | Suburban feel, amenities close by |
| Stonehenge | Pacific Crest | Family-friendly, outdoor recreation |
In comparing Raleigh's Oakwood with West Lancaster, both neighborhoods offer a sense of history and community that is hard to find elsewhere. Oakwood, known for its beautiful historic homes and annual events, mirrors West Lancaster's community spirit and architectural charm. For those who appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of North Hills, Quartz Hill in Lancaster provides a similar mix of shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities, embodying the essence of a community where convenience meets community. And if the arts and entertainment scene of Raleigh's Warehouse District captures your heart, Lancaster Blvd offers a comparable hub for arts, dining, and entertainment in Lancaster, keeping the cultural spirit alive. These comparisons highlight just how easily one can transition from Raleigh to Lancaster by finding neighborhoods that resonate with their lifestyle and preferences.
Things to Do in Lancaster
Visit the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve- Enjoy a show at Lancaster Performing Arts Center
- Explore Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Stroll around The BLVD
- Hike in Antelope Valley
- Try local brews at Bravery Brewing
- Watch a JetHawks baseball game
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Lancaster
Moving can be a significant life change that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. When considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA, it's essential to weigh all factors carefully. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By comparing Raleigh's cons to Lancaster's pros and vice versa, this guide highlights the key differences you'll encounter in your new home city.
Raleigh, NC- Higher humidity
- Less desert landscape
- Fewer aerospace jobs
- Smaller Hispanic culture
- Lower solar energy use
Lancaster, CA- Dryer climate
- Unique desert beauty
- Aerospace opportunities
- Rich Hispanic heritage
- High solar potential
Lancaster, CA- Less vegetation
- Fewer cultural venues
- Scarce rainfall
- Flat landscapes
- Less tech dominance
Raleigh, NC- Lush greenery
- Rich cultural scene
- More rainfall
- Varied topography
- Strong tech sector
In Lancaster, CA, you'll find a unique blend of cultural and environmental characteristics distinct from Raleigh, NC. For instance, Lancaster boasts a rich Hispanic heritage, offering an array of authentic cuisines and cultural festivals such as those found at LA County's celebrations. The city's desert beauty is unparalleled, with attractions like the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve providing stunning natural sights few other places can match. Lancaster is also a hub for the aerospace industry, hosting major employers like the Lockheed Martin plant, providing cutting-edge career opportunities. Though it may offer fewer lush landscapes and cultural venues than Raleigh, Lancaster's unique offerings and growing economy present an enticing option for those willing to embrace its desert charm.
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh, NC, and Lancaster, CA, to enlighten you on the food scene of your new city. Understanding the local cuisine is essential in appreciating the culture and lifestyle of the area you're moving to.
| Raleigh | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | A.V. Fair Cinnamon Rolls |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork | Trip-tip steak |
| Most popular street food item | Shrimp and Grits | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ jackfruit | Vegan tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, NC, you'll find an illustrious food scene deeply rooted in traditional Southern cooking but with a modern twist, especially in iconic neighborhoods like the Warehouse District. Places like The Pit embrace this by offering a contemporary take on classic North Carolina BBQ. Raleigh also boasts an impressive number of food trucks and vegan options, highlighting its progressive food scene. Moving to Lancaster, CA, anticipate a shift towards more Western-style cuisines, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Lancaster holds charm in its unique offerings, such as A.V. Fair Cinnamon Rolls, and a burgeoning food truck scene that's growing, albeit more slowly than Raleigh's. Vegan options are increasing, with spots like Bex Grill leading the charge towards a more inclusive eating experience.
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in turning a new area into a home. Through this comparison of restaurants in Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA , this guide aims to pinpoint your future favorite spots, transforming unfamiliar streets into familiar haunts.
| Raleigh | Lancaster | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bida Manda | Spicy Thai | Authentic Thai flavors and cozy atmosphere |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Love Sushi & Roll | Fusion dishes with a unique twist |
| Brewery Bhavana | Kinetic Brewing Company | Craft beer and eclectic eats |
| Poole's Diner | The Lemon Leaf Café | Classic American with a modern flair |
| Garland | Curry Leaf | Modern Indian cuisine with a local touch |
| Death & Taxes | Baracoa Cuban Restaurant | Intense flavors and vibrant atmosphere |
| Crawford and Son | Giannini Bistro & Grill | Fine dining with a personal touch |
| The Pit | Big Shotz Bar & Grill | Southern comfort food with live music |
| Angus Barn | Broken Bit Steakhouse | High-quality steaks in a rustic setting |
| Mandolin | MOAH:Café | Creative dishes in an artful environment |
Every cuisine reflects a story, from the sizzling plates of Spicy Thai that offer a taste of Thai authenticity comparable to Raleigh's Bida Manda, to the Southern flair of Broken Bit Steakhouse, reminiscent of Angus Barn's iconic steaks. For those who crave the fusion and creativity found at Beasley's Chicken + Honey, Love Sushi & Roll presents a novel blend of flavors sure to satisfy. Meanwhile, Kinetic Brewing Company stands as Lancaster's answer to Brewery Bhavana, offering meticulously crafted beers alongside inventive dishes. Each establishment in Lancaster mirrors the essence of Raleigh's favorites, providing not just meals, but memories woven into the fabric of your new neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's essential to weigh the differences in real estate between Raleigh, NC, and Lancaster, CA. This comparison will help you understand the variance in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Ranch, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Green spaces, proximity to top-rated schools | Desert landscapes, spacious lots |
While Raleigh and Lancaster share similarities in median home prices, their offerings in terms of lifestyle vary significantly. Raleigh's colonial and craftsman styles reflect an East Coast charm, complementing its green spaces and emphasis on family-friendly neighborhoods. Lancaster, with its ranch and modern homes, caters to those appreciating the beauty of desert landscapes and larger property sizes. The slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores in Lancaster indicate a more conducive environment for outdoor activities, despite its less urban setting compared to Raleigh. Understanding these nuances will help you find a home that fits not just your budget, but your lifestyle preferences as well.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lancaster, CA
1. West Lancaster: Home to several spacious parks, including Prime Desert Woodland Preserve, West Lancaster offers abundant walking trails and natural areas for you and your pets to explore.
2. Rancho Vista: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Rancho Vista provides plenty of green spaces and dog parks, like the popular Apollo Community Regional Park, for pet owners to enjoy outdoor activities.
3. Quartz Hill: A quiet, suburban neighborhood with a tight-knit community vibe, Quartz Hill offers easy access to pet services and outdoor spaces suitable for pets, including the dog-friendly George Lane Park.
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Weather Considerations
When contemplating a move from Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA, it's crucial to consider how the weather compares with what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you understand the differences in climate, precipitation, and potential natural hazards between Raleigh and Lancaster, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new environment.
Raleigh, NC
Lancaster, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Lancaster, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Lancaster, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Lancaster, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Raleigh to Lancaster, you'll find yourself in a noticeably drier climate with significantly more sunny days each year. While Raleigh offers a lush, humid atmosphere with moderate winters, Lancaster's desert environment brings more extreme temperature variations between day and night, particularly in the summer. Notably, the shift from Raleigh's hurricane-prone climate to Lancaster's risk of earthquakes and wildfires represents a major change in potential natural disasters. Understanding these differences ensures you can make the necessary preparations and adjustments for a comfortable life in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Lancaster
When considering a move from one location to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison chart gives you a straightforward look at how moving from Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA will affect your finances, from average income to cost of living and beyond.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $64,242 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Transportation |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
In Raleigh, the average household income is higher and the cost of living index is slightly below Lancaster's. However, moving to Lancaster, you'll find yourself in a state with higher income and sales taxes, reflecting California's overall tax burden. Despite this, the average property tax rate is surprisingly lower in Lancaster than in Raleigh. The industries you'll find dominant in each city differ greatly, with Raleigh focusing on technology, education, and healthcare, versus Lancaster's emphasis on aerospace, manufacturing, and transportation. This shift not only impacts job opportunities but also the socio-economic landscape, including levels of affluence, poverty, and homelessness.
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Political & Religious Comparison
This quick comparison offers insight into the political and religious makeup of residents in Raleigh, NC and Lancaster, CA, providing a snapshot to help you understand the community you are moving into.
| Raleigh | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Swing City, slight Republican tilt |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Conservative on fiscal policies |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, with a diversity of faiths | Christianity dominant, followed by other faiths |
Raleigh and Lancaster present contrasting landscapes in terms of political and religious orientations, reflecting broader regional differences. Raleigh, with its progressive stance on social issues, aligns more with Democratic values, while Lancaster's slight Republican tilt highlights its conservative perspective on fiscal policies. Despite these differences, both cities share a predominantly Christian religious makeup, though Raleigh boasts a slightly more diverse religious community. Understanding these nuances will help you gauge the cultural and social environment of your new home.
Raleigh vs. Lancaster Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA involves transitioning between different daily commutes and traffic environments. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Lancaster aims to give you a better understanding of what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Very challenging |
In Raleigh, the average commute time slightly edges out Lancaster, but it's important to note that this is also impacted by Raleigh's higher traffic congestion score. Despite this, public transit options in Raleigh are somewhat more available, though residents in both cities heavily rely on personal vehicles for daily commutes. In Lancaster, despite the slightly lower congestion, the sparse availability of public transit makes it very challenging to navigate the city without a car. Both cities have their unique transportation hurdles, indicating a significant reliance on personal vehicles for mobility.
Additional Resources
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