Best Pennsylvania to Washington Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Pennsylvania to Washington and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,596 mile PA to WA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 232 Pennsylvania to Washington 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 Pennsylvania compared to Washington. 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 Pennsylvania to Washington Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pittsburgh Moving9.629.51Authorized For HHGContact
2Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
3EverSafe Moving Co.9.509.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC9.499.53Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC9.479.56Authorized For HHGContact
6John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Pennsylvania to Washington

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,596 miles from Pennsylvania to Washington will cost on average $3,989 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom PA to WA move is roughly $9,641. 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 in Pennsylvania and dropoff in Washington 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 Pennsylvania to Washington movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,674300 ft³8.91
1 Bedroom$3,989450 ft³8.86
2 Bedrooms$6,611750 ft³8.81
3 Bedrooms$9,6411100 ft³8.76
4 Bedrooms$13,9431600 ft³8.71
5+ Bedrooms$15,5951800 ft³8.66
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & Washington. 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 PA to WA mover.
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Compare the 6 Best PA to WA 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
S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,941+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC Logo

Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 755+ data points

Harrisburg, PA, 17120

About Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC

Keystone Moving & Junk Removal is a BBB-accredited moving company in Mechanicsburg that services Harrisburg, Camp Hill, and all surrounding areas...

Services

  • Local & long-distance moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Labor-only moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3011826 / 59310

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
S

Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC

Exceptional9.47/10
based on 699+ data points

1231 Pine Grove Rd

Yardley, PA, 19067

About Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC

Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC is a family-owned and operated business that offers various moving and storage solutions in Southeastern...

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential & Commercial Relocation
  • Packing & Crating

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3375156 / 1082634

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington

Moving across states isn't just about changing addresses; it's a substantial lifestyle shift. This guide draws an honest reflection weighing the good and bad attributes of relocating from Pennsylvania to Washington . Through detailed comparison charts, discover the pros and cons of leaving Pennsylvania for Washington and vice versa, setting realistic expectations for your big move.

CONs
PROs
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Higher taxes
  • Colder winters
  • Less tech jobs
  • Lower minimum wage
Washington iconWashington
  • No income tax
  • Milder climate
  • Tech hub
  • Higher minimum wage
Washington iconWashington
  • Less history
  • More rainfall
  • Higher housing costs
  • Far from East Coast
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Historic sights
  • Diverse seasons
  • Lower cost of living
  • Proximity to NY

While the transition from Pennsylvania to Washington involves grappling with higher living and housing costs, the advantages like Washington's substantial tech industry boom lead to promising career opportunities in companies like Microsoft and Amazon. You'll miss Pennsylvania's historic charm, embodied in landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Gettysburg, but the Pacific Northwest greets you with its outdoor splendor—from the tranquil shores of Lake Union to hiking in Mount Rainier National Park. Not to mention, Seattle's food scene, with places like Pike Place Fish Market and Canlis, offers a diversity that food lovers will relish. Lastly, the lack of a state income tax in Washington presents a financial upside that benefits most residents in the long run.

Pennsylvania vs. Washington Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pennsylvania & Washington, highlighting how food is a vital aspect of local culture and living experience. Understanding the distinctions in culinary scenes will prepare you better for your move.

PennsylvaniaWashington
Most iconic local food itemPhilly CheesesteakSalmon
Most popular meat dishPork and SauerkrautGeoduck Clam
Most popular street food itemPretzelsFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodMushroom CheesesteakTempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Pennsylvania, especially Philadelphia, the Philly Cheesesteak reigns supreme as the iconic local food item — a must-try for visitors. For those moving to Washington, the culinary scene shifts towards seafood, with salmon being a staple and the geoduck clam offering a unique local taste that might be new to you. Washington's food scene is distinguished by its sustainability and seafood cuisine, with neighborhoods like Pike Place Market in Seattle serving as culinary hubs. Both states have vibrant food scenes, but Washington stands out for its health-conscious options and a stronger emphasis on vegan foods, such as the popular tempeh Reuben found in various local eateries.

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Pennsylvania vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial consideration when planning a move. Understanding how Pennsylvania and Washington differ in terms of housing cost, architectural style, walkability, and overall urban lifestyle can significantly impact your decision-making process.

ComparisonPennsylvaniaWashington
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, FarmhouseCraftsman, Contemporary
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHistoric details, Large yardsEco-friendly features, Proximity to nature

The stark contrast in the median home prices and rent between Pennsylvania and Washington reflects the broader cost of living and economic opportunities in each state. Pennsylvania's colonial and farmhouse-style homes often appeal to those seeking historic charm and larger plots of land. On the other hand, Washington's preference for Craftsman and contemporary architecture mirrors its modern, eco-conscious ethos, coupled with a high priority on walkability and bikeability. The urban lifestyle score emphasizes Washington's vibrancy, bolstered by its cities' proximity to natural landscapes, making it an attractive option for those who seek a blend of urban living with easy access to outdoor activities.

Pennsylvania vs. Washington Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Pennsylvania to Washington, comparing the weather between these states can help set realistic expectations for your new environment. From average temperatures to natural disasters , understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for the change.

Summer icon
85°F / 62°F

Pennsylvania

79°F / 55°F

Washington

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39°F / 20°F

Pennsylvania

47°F / 36°F

Washington

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Pennsylvania

38

Washington

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
38

Pennsylvania

16

Washington

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPennsylvaniaWashington
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsEarthquakes, Volcanoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington, you'll notice milder summers and winters in Washington, thanks to its coastal climate. While Pennsylvania enjoys more sunny days, Washington's higher humidity level contributes to a lush, green environment but can amplify mold and tree pollen allergies. Furthermore, you'll transition from a region where tornadoes and floods are more common to an area with a greater risk of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Air quality is generally better in Washington, a benefit for those sensitive to pollution. This comparison highlights that preparation for different weather patterns and natural disaster risks is key to a smooth transition.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington

When considering a move, grasping the financial differences between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the economic aspects of transitioning from Pennsylvania to Washington. Understanding the cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities is essential, especially when moving between states as different as Pennsylvania and Washington.

ComparisonPennsylvaniaWashington
Avg. Household Income$71,798$91,306
Cost of Living Index99.7104.1
State Income Tax3.070
Avg. Property Tax1.500.93
Avg. Sales Tax6.349.17
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, RetailTechnology, Aerospace, Agriculture
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowLower
HomelessnessNoticeableSignificant

Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington introduces a significant shift in economic landscape. While Washington boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a higher cost of living index, indicating that your earnings might not stretch as far as expected. The absence of state income tax in Washington may seem attractive, but higher sales and property taxes could offset this benefit. Moreover, the contrast in the dominant industries between the two states highlights the opportunities for career movement or change, particularly for those in technology and aerospace sectors. Such economic factors are crucial to consider for a smooth transition and to set realistic expectations for your new life in Washington.

Pennsylvania vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the politics between Pennsylvania & Washington, as well as the religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the societal landscape you’re moving into.

PennsylvaniaWashington
Political Make-upSwing State with a mix of Democratic and Republican leaningsLeans Democratic, especially in urban areas
Local PoliticsLocalized to township and county influencesStrong city-based political activism
ReligionChristianity predominates, with a diverse mix of other religionsLess religious overall, with Christianity being major, but has a significant "nones" demographic

In detail, when moving from Pennsylvania to Washington, you'll find yourself transitioning from an environment where politics can swing either way to one where Democratic inclinations are more pronounced, especially in urban centers like Seattle. This could mean different local policies, public opinion climates, and social issues at the forefront. Local politics in Washington may lean more towards city-based initiatives and activism, reflecting the state's progressive stance on various issues. Religion-wise, while Pennsylvania has a robust religious community with Christianity at the forefront, Washington is known for a larger proportion of individuals identifying as non-religious or part of the "nones" demographic, alongside a significant Christian community. This shift could influence the cultural and community activities available to you, as well as the general societal atmosphere.

Education Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington

When considering a move from Pennsylvania to Washington, it's crucial to compare educational opportunities for your child. This comparison will enable you to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Pennsylvania and Washington . By doing so, you're taking an important step towards choosing the best educational path for your family's needs.

PennsylvaniaWashington

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University
Temple University
University of Washington
Washington State University
Western Washington University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Albert M. Greenfield School (Philadelphia)
Ad Prima Charter School (Philadelphia)
Penn Wynne School (Wynnewood)
Cascade K-8 Community School (Shoreline)
Bertschi School (Seattle)
The Bush School (Seattle)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia)
Radnor Middle School (Radnor)
Charles F. Patton Middle School (Kennett Square)
Lakeside Middle School (Seattle)
Seattle Academy (Seattle)
Islander Middle School (Mercer Island)

Top 3 High School Schools

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia)
Conestoga High School (Berwyn)
Lower Merion High School (Ardmore)
Bellevue High School (Bellevue)
International School (Bellevue)
Redmond High School (Redmond)

Top 3 private high schools

The Baldwin School (Bryn Mawr)
The Episcopal Academy (Newtown Square)
Mercersburg Academy (Mercersburg)
The Overlake School (Redmond)
Lakeside School (Seattle)
The Bush School (Seattle)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Agnes Irwin School (Rosemont)
The Shipley School (Bryn Mawr)
Germantown Friends School (Philadelphia)
The Bear Creek School (Redmond)
Lakeside School (Seattle)
The Bush School (Seattle)

Top 3 School Districts

Radnor Township School District
Tredyffrin-Easttown School District
Lower Merion School District
Mercer Island School District
Bellevue School District
Lake Washington School District

Choosing the right school for your child requires thoughtful consideration. Pennsylvania offers a wealth of historic and prestigious educational institutions like the Julia R. Masterman Secondary School in Philadelphia, renowned for its rigorous academic program, and the University of Pennsylvania, a leading Ivy League institution. Similarly, Washington provides excellent opportunities with top-ranked schools and universities, including the University of Washington and the innovative, holistic educational approaches found at The Overlake School in Redmond and Bellevue High School. Both states boast schools that are highly regarded nationally, making them excellent choices for families prioritizing education in their relocation decision. Furthermore, exploring the offerings of the top private K-12 schools, such as The Shipley School in Bryn Mawr, PA, and The Bush School in Seattle, WA, can provide insights into the unique educational philosophies and environments available.

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