Arlington, VA to Lancaster, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

• Your budget won't be hit too hard when you move to Lancaster from Arlington with rent being about the same in each state.
• Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 42% cheaper in Lancaster than in Arlington.
• You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 42% less in Lancaster than in Arlington.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Lancaster. The cost of living for a single person there is 63% below that of Arlington.
• A move to Lancaster can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 54% lower compared to Arlington.
• Lancaster has a higher unemployment rate than Arlington by about 290%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
• Sales taxes in Lancaster surpass those in Arlington by 71%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
• Income taxes are 131% more in California than in Virginia. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

• Lancaster's population is about 27% less than Arlington.
• Lancaster has no measurable public transportation (score of 0), while Arlington scores 9 out of 10, showing a clear advantage for Arlington.
• Lancaster is less walkable than Arlington with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Arlington's 71 out of 100.
• Lancaster has a bike-friendliness score of 40 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Arlington, which has a score of 72.
• Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Arlington with a score of 45.5 compared to Arlington's 15.67. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
• Lancaster is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 54.5 vs Arlington's 79.15.
• Air quality in Lancaster is Good, and in Arlington it's Good.

• HOA rules: Plan time to look into your HOA or community rules and regulations before moving day arrives, to avoid any delays.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Lancaster. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Downtown Lancaster
• Central Lancaster
• East Lancaster
• College Terrace
• Skytower Park

Best neighborhoods for families

• Quartz Hill
• West Lancaster
• Rancho Vista
• Brentwood
• El Dorado

Things to do in Lancaster

With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Lancaster. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you'll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Lancaster is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Lancaster Museum of Art & History, Western Hotel Museum, and Boyle Heights History Studios & Tours.
• Outdoor recreation: The city's Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an game.