Best Pittsburgh to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,465 mile move from Pennsylvania to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Pittsburgh to Lancaster moving companies and more than 20,000 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Lancaster Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Meta Movers | 9.11 | 9.43 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.80 | 8.2 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.02 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.74 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to Lancaster
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,465 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Lancaster, CA will cost on average $3,877 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Lancaster move is roughly $9,368. 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 | $2,600 | 300 ft³ | 8.67 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,877 | 450 ft³ | 8.62 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,425 | 750 ft³ | 8.57 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,368 | 1100 ft³ | 8.52 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,546 | 1600 ft³ | 8.47 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,150 | 1800 ft³ | 8.42 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lancaster to Pittsburgh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Lancaster Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pittsburgh Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
Meta Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
3555 Valley Dr
Pittsburgh, PA, 15234
About Two Men and a Truck
With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1321899 / 509618 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 260,000 (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) |
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've compared the top neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA & Lancaster, CA to help you find a new place that feels like home. By looking at various aspects such as vibes, amenities, and community, we've pinpointed the most similar neighborhoods between these two cities.
| Pittsburgh | Lancaster | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Shadyside | West Lancaster | Trendy shopping & dining |
| Squirrel Hill | Quartz Hill | Family-friendly with parks |
| Lawrenceville | Westside Lancaster | Artsy and vibrant |
| East Liberty | Desert View Highlands | Urban renewal energy |
| South Side | Lancaster Blvd | Active nightlife |
| Mount Washington | Antelope Acres | Stunning views |
| Bloomfield | Lake Los Angeles | Laid-back atmosphere |
| North Shore | Rancho Vista | Entertainment & shopping |
| Strip District | Lancaster Old Town | Historic charm, market vibe |
| Highland Park | East Lancaster | Community parks & activities |
For those who enjoy the trendy shopping and dining scene of Shadyside in Pittsburgh, West Lancaster offers a similar vibe with its eclectic mix of local boutiques and restaurants. If you're moving from a neighborhood known for its parks and family-friendly atmosphere like Squirrel Hill, you'll find Quartz Hill in Lancaster to be a comfortable transition with its community parks and recreational areas. Lawrenceville's artsy and vibrant culture can be closely matched in Westside Lancaster, where creativity and community engagement are thriving. And for those who appreciate an active nightlife, moving from South Side to Lancaster Blvd will feel almost seamless, with numerous bars, pubs, and live music venues bringing the street to life after dark. Each of these neighborhoods in Lancaster maintains its unique charm and offers a slice of familiarity for those relocating from Pittsburgh.
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 Pittsburgh to Lancaster
Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Lancaster, CA offers a unique opportunity to weigh the balance of lifestyle changes. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision on your move. Let’s dive into the detailed observations to understand better the contrast between your current home and your potential new one.
Pittsburgh, PA- Colder winters
- Smaller city
- Less sunshine
- Higher humidity
Lancaster, CA- Milder winters
- Larger area
- More sunshine
- Dry climate
Lancaster, CA- Less cultural diversity
- Desert landscape
- Younger city
- Spread out
Pittsburgh, PA- Vibrant culture
- Lush greenery
- Rich history
- Compact city
While weighing the pros and cons of moving from Pittsburgh, PA, to Lancaster, CA, certain aspects stand out. Pittsburgh's vibrant culture and lush greenery, courtesy of its parks like Schenley Park and the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, contrast with Lancaster's desert landscapes. However, Lancaster counters with its more consistent sunshine and a drier climate, which might be a welcome change for those tired of Pittsburgh's colder winters and higher humidity. Furthermore, Lancaster's sprawl offers a different living experience than Pittsburgh's compact and history-rich environment. While Lancaster may offer less in terms of cultural diversity, places like the Lancaster Museum of Art and History and the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve present unique local attractions that embrace the region's natural and cultural heritage.
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Lancaster to give you a taste of the food scene in both areas. Food is a central part of local culture and living, so understanding what each city offers can help you adapt more comfortably to your new home.
| Pittsburgh | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pierogi | A.V. Thomas Produce Sweet Potatoes |
| Most popular meat dish | Primanti Bros. Sandwich | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Curry | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster, you'll transition from a city renowned for its pierogies and hearty Primanti Bros. sandwiches to a place where agriculture, especially A.V. Thomas Produce Sweet Potatoes, plays a significant role in local cuisine. Lancaster offers a distinct experience, with tri-tip BBQ as the go-to meat dish reflecting its close ties to California's agricultural heartland. You can find the evolution of these local specialties in neighborhoods like Lancaster's Downtown, where places like Kinetic Brewing Company serve as a hub for both food and community, showcasing the diversity and innovation within Lancaster's food scene.
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Restaurant Comparison
Finding your next favorite eatery in a new city can feel daunting, but this guide aims to ease the transition. By comparing top Pittsburgh restaurants to similar spots in Lancaster, CA, you'll be making yourself right at home in no time. Let our restaurant comparison guide between Pittsburgh and Lancaster serve as your culinary compass, guiding you from familiar flavors to new delights.
| Pittsburgh | Lancaster | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Pamela's Diner | Marie Callender's | Traditional American breakfast options |
| Primanti Bros. | Crazy Otto's Diner | Known for hearty sandwiches and homestyle ambiance |
| Altius | The Lemon Leaf Café | Upscale dining with a focus on presentation and flavor |
| Meat & Potatoes | Broken Bit Steakhouse | Offers robust, meat-centric meals in a cozy setting |
| Gaucho Parrilla Argentina | Rio Brazilian Grill | Authentic South American flavors with a focus on grilled meats |
| Pigeon Bagels | Spunky Steer | Cozy spot for breakfast and bakery items, including bagels |
| Dish Osteria Bar | Giannini Bistro & Grill | Italian cuisine with a warm, inviting atmosphere |
| Spoon | Barone's Pizzeria | Creative and classic dishes with a modern twist |
| DiAnoia's Eatery | Olives Mediterranean Café | Offers a cozy vibe for Italian and Mediterranean fusion dishes |
| Eleven | Black Angus Steakhouse | Refined dining experience featuring premium steaks and seafood |
Among these culinary bridges between Pittsburgh and Lancaster, a few stand out for their unique appeal. Gaucho Parrilla Argentina enchants meat lovers with its South American grilling tradition, echoed by Lancaster's Rio Brazilian Grill, where the scent of grilled meats fills the air with promises of a flavorful journey. For those seeking a cozy Italian vibe reminiscent of Dish Osteria Bar, Giannini Bistro & Grill in Lancaster offers an inviting atmosphere where every dish feels like a warm embrace. And when it's time for a familiar but distinctive dining experience, the upscale menus of Altius find a counterpart in The Lemon Leaf Café, blending sophistication with a touch of creativity that would satisfy any Pittsburgh native's palate looking for something uniquely Lancaster.
Ready to start your move?
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's essential to compare key elements of potential new homes. Real estate remains atop the crucial list, especially when considering a relocation from Pittsburgh, PA to Lancaster, CA . Understanding the differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall lifestyle each city offers can significantly impact your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian & Modern | Modern & Ranch Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to restaurants and parks | Spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods |
While Pittsburgh boasts a more urban environment with higher walkability and bikeability scores, its Victorian and modern homes are relatively affordable with a median price of $200,000. In contrast, Lancaster offers a suburban feel, reflected in its quieter, more spacious neighborhoods and prevalent ranch-style architecture. However, this comes at a higher median home price of $380,000. Notably, both cities present unique lifestyle opportunities, but if you lean towards a vibrant urban environment, Pittsburgh might be more appealing, whereas Lancaster offers a tranquil suburban lifestyle.
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another is a significant life event. Understanding the change in weather you'll experience is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight the weather patterns between Pittsburgh and Lancaster to help you adjust to your new environment more comfortably.
Pittsburgh, PA
Lancaster, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Lancaster, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Lancaster, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pittsburgh, PA
Lancaster, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Floods | Wildfires, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Pittsburgh to Lancaster means preparing for significantly more sunny days and a drier climate. Lancaster experiences a stark contrast in humidity levels and rainfall compared to Pittsburgh, leading to different lifestyle adjustments, such as increased water intake and usage of humidifiers. The average winter temperatures in Lancaster are milder, offering a more comfortable cold season compared to the chilly winters of Pittsburgh. It's also worth noting the different natural disaster risks; familiarizing yourself with earthquake and wildfire preparedness will be beneficial upon your move to Lancaster.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster
When you're contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape awaiting you is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in cost of living and economic conditions between Pittsburgh, PA, and Lancaster, CA , offering a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of expenses and opportunities in your new home.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $57,821 | $64,242 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07% | 9.3% - 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.07% | 0.77% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 9.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
Moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster presents a variety of financial contrasts. Notably, while average household income is slightly higher in Lancaster, the cost of living and tax rates, particularly state income tax and sales tax, are significantly higher, reflecting California's overall economic climate. Property tax rates in Lancaster are notably lower than in Pittsburgh, which could be beneficial for homeownership. Despite similar affluence levels, Lancaster experiences a higher degree of poverty and homelessness, factors that are important to consider for social and community engagements in your new city. These contrasts underscore the importance of preparing for the economic realities of your new locale.
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics and religion between Pittsburgh and Lancaster provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at offering insights into the typical makeup of the population in both cities.
| Pittsburgh | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive urban policies | Conservative, suburban focus |
| Religion | Diverse; significant Catholic presence | Diverse; strong Evangelical and Anabaptist presence |
When moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster, you'll find a shift from a city that leans Democratic toward one with a Republican tilt. Pittsburgh, known for its progressive urban policies, contrasts with Lancaster's conservative, suburban focus. Religion in both cities is diverse, but you'll notice a significant Catholic presence in Pittsburgh, whereas Lancaster showcases a strong Evangelical and Anabaptist community, reflecting its historical roots in the area. Understanding these differences can help smooth your transition and integration into your new community.
Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison sheds light on the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Lancaster, offering insights into what your daily commute might look like after moving. From average commute times to the feasibility of living without a car, this guide helps you navigate the differences.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | Difficult |
In Pittsburgh, the public transit system is relatively robust, with options such as buses and the light rail system making it possible to get around without a car for most daily needs. This contributes to a lower necessity for a personal vehicle in comparison to Lancaster, where public transit options are not as extensive, making a car almost essential for commuting and accessing local amenities. While traffic congestion is notably higher in Pittsburgh, the average commute time is surprisingly shorter, likely due to the city's comprehensive transit network and more efficient planning of urban infrastructure.
Additional Resources
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