Moving from Florida to Pennsylvania Cost and Tips

While you’re preparing for your move from FL to PA you need to know all the factors that impact cost. The timing, type, and size of your move all affect your moving budget.

Sergio Ocampo

Sergio Ocampo is a Chief Writer for moveBuddha keen to share his moving expertise.

Jun 16 · < 1

If you’re considering moving to Pennsylvania from Florida, there are some things you need to know.

How much will the move itself cost?

Quick Answer: The average cost to move from Florida to Pennsylvania is $2,100-$4,150 depending on the size, route, and timing of the move. Hiring a professional moving company will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or using a moving container will save you money but also require a lot more work.

Those are just some factors though, there are others that will affect the price of your move that you should know about. These include when you move, when you book, where exactly you’re moving, and of course, the size of your move.

For a more personalized price quote, use our moving cost calculator.

For now, let’s jump right in.

How Much Does It Cost to Move from Florida to Pennsylvania?

	Moving Company	Moving Container	Freight Company	Truck Rental*
Studio/1 bedroom	$1,630-$2,100	$1,799-$2,273	$1,330-$1,890	$1,081-$1,459
2-3 bedroom	$2,650-$4,100	$2,700-$3,410	$1,853-$2,633	$1,264-$1,706
4+ bedroom	$3,455-$5,950	$3,054-$3,858	$2,043-$2,903	$1,386-$1,871

*Estimates for truck rentals include fuel costs only. Other costs may include lodging, tolls, or parking.

Why Do the Prices Vary So Much?

Prices are affected by many factors. One of the most important factors is the type of move you choose. Professional movers cost the most, but they take a lot of stress out of the moving experience. To save money use moving containers, freight companies, and DIY truck rentals as other options.

For example, moving containers and freight companies only move your belongings, you must complete the packing and unpacking.

If you rent a truck you are responsible for every step of the moving process, which can be both physically and mentally stressful. It all depends on how much sweat you want to put into your move.

Inbound vs. Outbound State Demands Impacts Price

The popularity of a state can also impact your moving cost. For example, Pennsylvania is the 10th most popular destination for people moving from another state.

With so many moving to the state, you are more likely to get a better price from professional movers who are already moving other customers to the same location.

You can find a good rate if a moving company is coordinating additional Florida to Pennsylvania moves.

Offseason vs Peak Moving Season Impacts Price

When you move also affects your cost. If you move during moving season you will pay more. Offseason moves will save you a lot if you can choose your moving dates.

Compare the costs of a moving season move (summer) to an offseason move (fall or winter) from Florida to Pennsylvania.

November 1: A five-bedroom house with professional movers: $3,455-$5,950
July 1: A five-bedroom house with professional movers: $4,950-$8,100

Use the moving cost calculator to get your best-customized estimate based on your moving dates and the size of your move.

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Why Are People Moving from Florida to Pennsylvania?

While Florida has a lot to offer, it is not for everyone. A limited economy and the threat of hurricanes have led many to seek out different locales.

The reasonable cost of living and Pennsylvania’s proximity to New York City creates the opportunity to find more jobs and maintain a better life. Compared to its close neighbor, New York City, Pennsylvania’s rent prices are about 50% lower and its real estate prices are about 70% lower.

Many also find the historic qualities of Pennsylvania’s cities a strong attraction.

Best Places to Move in Pennsylvania

Before your move, think about some of the places in Pennsylvania that offer you what you need including recreation, cost of living or employment opportunities. These are a few prime locations preferred by inbound movers.

Philadelphia

This historic city of Philadelphia offers much in the way of culture. Art museums and historic sites are embedded in the city proper. There is also a modern edge to the city to balance the tradition.

Young professionals flock to Philly neighborhoods like Fishtown and Old City, which are full of bustling bars and restaurants.

Philadelphia has a booming job market and offers a reasonable cost of living compared to major metro areas in the US.

Scranton

The close-knit neighborhoods of Scranton attract a mix of young professionals and families. A vibrant downtown area offers ample opportunities for employment. There are lots to do on the weekends with fairs and festivals throughout the year and plenty of trendy restaurants.

Most residents will remark on the small-town feel of their big city. The blend of urban bustle with quiet village-style suburbs makes Scranton a popular choice for anyone looking for an alternative to Philadelphia.

Allentown

Much of Pennsylvania offers American history and modern lifestyle side by side. In Allentown, You will find Victorian-style houses in this quaint town alongside modern condo developments.

Parts of Allentown slip over into the state of New Jersey. Many of the amenities of Allentown and their neighbor are shared.

Allentown gets high marks for healthcare and ranks 10th out of 125 metro areas for the best places to live.

York

The geographic shape of Pennsylvania allows it to share its borders with many thriving districts in nearby states. This proximity gives many residents the ability to enjoy the low cost of living in PA while finding employment and other activities just across the border.

York is right next to Maryland. The cost of living is slightly higher but for those working the next state over, York is an ideal location.

A flourishing arts community has caused a surge in growth in the York downtown area. Rolling farmland, modern city parks, and plenty of shopping centers offer a little bit of everything to new residents.

Reading

Reading offers a diverse community and a fluid one. The economic growth has transformed the town as manufacturing and transportation industries were replaced with service industries. Not far from Philadelphia, Reading acts almost as a suburb for young professionals and families who want accessibility to the big city, but the qualities of small-town life.

Housing costs are reasonable with residents spending about 23.44% of the median household income on housing.

Pittsburgh

Of all the places to live in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh is by far the most affordable. The cost of living requires just 20,15% of household income. Though the city experienced hurdles with the loss of the steel industry, it’s on its way back.

Major American corporations are eyeing Pittsburgh for its affordability. A hub of tech and education is already thriving in the city, which is driving a spike in employment.

Lower cost housing makes this city a great place to start a family and a perfect place to launch a career as a recent college grad.

Lancaster

For some, the big city is not an attraction. For a slower-paced rural life, look to Lancaster.

Here you will find Amish country culture everywhere. The city of Lancaster has been highly ranked for the quality of life and for preparing high school students for college readiness.

Local industries are thriving here, especially in the food category. The proximity of farms has secured Kellogg’s and Mars manufacturing in the area.

High-quality healthcare, low crime rates, and leisurely commute times make this small town the best place to enjoy rural life.