Best Philadelphia to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Lancaster and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,710 mile move from Pennsylvania to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Philadelphia 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 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia to Lancaster 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 | banning moving | 9.20 | 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 Philadelphia to Lancaster
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,710 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Lancaster, CA will cost on average $4,086 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Lancaster move is roughly $9,877. 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 | $2,739 | 300 ft³ | 9.13 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,086 | 450 ft³ | 9.08 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,772 | 750 ft³ | 9.03 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,877 | 1100 ft³ | 8.98 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,287 | 1600 ft³ | 8.93 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,983 | 1800 ft³ | 8.88 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lancaster to Philadelphia guide.
Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Lancaster 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) |
banning moving
2224 Apple Way
Bensalem, PA, 19020
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3350149 / 1070919 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,675 (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) |
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.
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating, understanding your new environment is crucial. This guide offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Lancaster, CA, aimed at easing your transition. By comparing familiar Philadelphia neighborhoods with similar ones in Lancaster, we aim to help you find a new home that matches your lifestyle and preferences.
| Philadelphia | Lancaster | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | West Lancaster | Vibrant, family-friendly area |
| Fishtown | Quartz Hill | Artsy, with local eateries |
| University City | Lancaster West | Educational hub, youthful |
| Old City | Downtown Lancaster | Historical, with a touch of charm |
| Queen Village | Desert View Highlands | Quiet, community-oriented |
| Manayunk | Rancho Vista | Active with recreational options |
| Center City | Antelope Acres | Bustling, with urban conveniences |
| East Passyunk | Westside Lancaster | Diverse, rich in dining options |
| Northern Liberties | Eastside Lancaster | Creative, emerging arts scene |
| Art Museum District | Lake Los Angeles | Cultural, with scenic beauty |
In comparing neighborhoods between Philadelphia and Lancaster, the vibrancy and community feel of West Lancaster mirrors the active lifestyle and family-friendly atmosphere of Rittenhouse Square, though with its distinct West Coast vibe. For those drawn to the edgy, artsy essence of Fishtown, Quartz Hill offers a similar creative spirit amidst the backdrop of Southern California. The educational and youthful energy of University City is echoed in Lancaster West, where educational institutions engender a vibrant community spirit. Meanwhile, the historical charm of Old City has a counterpart in Downtown Lancaster, where history intersects with local allure to offer residents a unique blend of the past and present. These parallels extend beyond the surface, incorporating local parks, eateries like Beiler's Bakery in Lancaster akin to Philadelphia's famed dining, and cultural sights, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
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 Philadelphia to Lancaster
Moving between cities can be a significant change, packed with both exciting opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Lancaster, CA . Understanding these aspects will help you make a well-informed decision about your move.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher cost of living
- Colder winters
- Denser population
- Less outdoor activities
Lancaster, CA- Lower cost of living
- Milder winters
- Less crowded
- More outdoor options
Lancaster, CA- Less urban
- Fewer landmarks
- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer dining options
Philadelphia, PA- Vibrant urban life
- Historic landmarks
- Rich in culture
- Diverse food scene
While Lancaster, CA, offers a reprieve from the dense and bustling vibe of Philadelphia, PA, with more outdoor opportunities such as visiting the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, it comes at the expense of a vibrant urban life. Philadelphia boasts a rich array of historic landmarks and cultural institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Independence Hall, which might be less prevalent in Lancaster. However, Lancaster compensates with a unique charm, showcasing local gems such as The Antelope Valley Poppy Museum and the Antelope Valley Indian Museum. Additionally, Lancaster's dining scene, while smaller, includes standout spots like Bex Bar & Grill, promising a quaint yet rich food experience. Whether craving the fast-paced, culturally vibrant lifestyle of Philadelphia or the laid-back, sunny days in Lancaster, each city offers qualities worth considering for your next chapter.
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia, PA & Lancaster, CA, highlighting the uniqueness of each location's food scene. Food plays a vital role in understanding the culture and lifestyle where you're moving, and this comparison aims to give you a better insight into both destinations.
| Philadelphia | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheesesteak | BLVD BLT |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Tri-tip |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzel | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Cheesesteak | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Philadelphia's rich culinary scene is epitomized by its iconic cheesesteak, which can be found in its original glory at Pat's King of Steaks. The city's love for robust flavors extends to its roast pork sandwiches, a must-try at Reading Terminal Market. Street food lovers will enjoy the soft pretzels sold on many city corners. For vegans, the city doesn't disappoint, offering innovative options like the seitan cheesesteak. The food scene in Lancaster, CA, while smaller, packs its punch with local favorites like the BLVD BLT from BLVD Café and delectable tri-tip found across town. Lancaster's food trucks, albeit fewer, serve an impressive variety of cuisines, with tacos being a popular street food item. Kinetic Brewing Co. stands out for both its craft beers and unique eats, marking Lancaster's growing foodie scene.
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can unsettle your dining routines, but discovering local culinary delights can swiftly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Philadelphia, PA, and Lancaster, CA, aims to guide you in finding those homey eateries. Whether you're craving the familiar or eager to taste the local flavor, we've mapped out your next favorite spots.
| Philadelphia | Lancaster | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Giannini Bistro & Grill | Mediterranean inspired flavors |
| Vernick Food & Drink | Barrel Springs Steakhouse & Saloon | Upscale dining with a welcoming atmosphere |
| Suraya | Al Watan | Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine mirroring Suraya's Lebanese offerings |
| Pizzeria Beddia | Barone's Pizza | Gourmet pizzas that remind you of Beddia's fame |
| Pho 75 | Pho Lê | A touch of Vietnamese authenticity in your bowl |
| Reading Terminal Market | The BLVD Market | Various stalls offering diverse and local food options |
| Di Bruno Bros. | S & M Market | Exquisite cheeses and charcuterie to explore |
| Federal Donuts | Donut Star | Creative and classic donuts alike, a sweet bite of happiness |
| El Vez | Medrano's Mexican Restaurant | Vibrant flavors and a festive atmosphere |
| La Colombe Coffee Roasters | Sagebrush Café | Artistic vibes with quality coffee and pastries |
In the search for culinary gems within Lancaster, CA, you'll find vibrant parallels to Philadelphia's diverse dining scene. For instance, Giannini Bistro & Grill emulates Zahav's celebrated Mediterranean influences with a Californian twist, ensuring your taste buds won't miss a beat. Meanwhile, Pho Lê offers a slice of Vietnamese culture similar to Pho 75, comforting both locals and newcomers with steaming bowls of pho. For those yearning for a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of Vernick Food & Drink, Barrel Springs Steakhouse & Saloon delivers with its exceptional steaks and welcoming vibe. These establishments not only promise to satisfy your cravings but also invite you to embrace Lancaster's local flavor, making the transition from Philadelphia both exciting and delectable.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between Philadelphia, PA and Lancaster, CA illuminates crucial aspects of your decision. This guide aims to offer a clear contrast to support your choice.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Row Homes, Historic | Ranch, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to amenities, historic charm | Spacious plots, modern amenities |
Philadelphia and Lancaster offer distinct living experiences shaped largely by their real estate markets. In Philadelphia, the urban lifestyle score is high, reflecting the city's dense, walkable nature and the prevalence of historic row houses that appeal to those who value history and proximity to city amenities. In contrast, Lancaster's appeal lies in its more spacious and modern housing options, albeit with lower walkability, indicating a lifestyle that leans more towards driving. The difference in median home prices and rents points to Lancaster being slightly more expensive, likely due to California's overall higher real estate prices. However, Lancaster's appeal includes modern amenities and larger plots, catering to those seeking more space and a modern living environment.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another involves many adjustments, and one critical area is the weather. It's fundamental to understand how weather conditions in Philadelphia, PA compare to those in Lancaster, CA, to adequately prepare for your new environment.
Philadelphia, PA
Lancaster, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Lancaster, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Lancaster, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Lancaster, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | moderate | good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Hurricanes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Philadelphia to Lancaster, you'll notice a significant difference in both the number of sunny days per year and overall humidity. Lancaster enjoys more than 280 days of sunshine annually and has lower humidity levels, making it feel drier and more comfortable for many. However, the trade-off includes facing more extreme temperatures in the summer and dealing with different types of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and wildfires, rather than the blizzards and hurricanes more common in Philadelphia. Adapting to these changes will be key to enjoying your new environment in Lancaster.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Lancaster
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in cost of living and financial climate between Philadelphia, PA and Lancaster, CA is crucial. This comparison will give you an insight into how your expenses, income, and living standards might change.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $64,242 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8% | 9.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When moving from Philadelphia to Lancaster, you'll notice several financial differences. For instance, the average household income in Lancaster is slightly higher than in Philadelphia. However, this comes with a higher cost of living indexed at 110.9 compared to Philadelphia's 101.6. Taxation also varies significantly; state income tax in Lancaster (California) is notably higher due to California's tax brackets, yet the average property tax rate is lower. These factors, along with differing top industries, affluence, and poverty levels, contribute to a distinct economic environment in each city. Understanding these variances can help you financially prepare for a smooth transition.
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from Philadelphia, PA to Lancaster, CA, it’s essential to understand the different communities you'll be joining. This quick comparison gives you a snapshot of the politics and religion - comparing Philadelphia & Lancaster, providing insight into what to expect in terms of local culture and community atmosphere.
| Philadelphia | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Mixed, with a conservative lean |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Conservative on fiscal policies |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Christian dominance with Grace Chapel and others |
Philadelphia's political climate is predominantly Democratic, emphasizing progressive stances on social issues, which mirror the city's diverse population and its broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds. Lancaster presents a contrasting scene with its conservative lean, particularly noticeable in local governance and fiscal policies. This difference in political orientation may reflect on various community programs and priorities. The religious landscape also shifts from Philadelphia's wide array of faiths and places of worship to Lancaster’s stronger Christian presence, led by institutions like Grace Chapel. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt and find your niche in your new home.
Philadelphia vs. Lancaster Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Lancaster, CA? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options will help you gauge what daily commute and traffic patterns will be like. This comparison will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 29 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In Philadelphia, the presence of extensive public transportation options like SEPTA, which includes buses, trolleys, subways, and regional trains, means you could easily get by without owning a car. The city's average commute time is slightly higher, likely due to the bustling urban environment and higher traffic congestion. On the other hand, Lancaster, CA, offers a more laid-back traffic atmosphere with lower congestion, but the sparse availability of public transit makes it almost essential to have a car for daily commuting. This stark difference in public transit availability could be a significant change if you're used to Philadelphia's convenience. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your lifestyle and commuting habits after the move.
Additional Resources
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