Factors that influence moving costs from Lancaster to Mesatoggle

The cost of Lancaster movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Lancaster to Mesa might cost as little as $1,217, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,276.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Lancaster, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $453 to $1,035. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Lancaster to Mesa

Moving from Lancaster to Mesa means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Lancaster than in Mesa, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Lancaster compares to Mesa so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Lancaster Mesa
Average rent cost $2,600 $1,786
Average home value $473,053 $432,892
Average income (per capita) $74,723 $64,524
Cost of living (single person) $2,540 $2,416
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,562 $5,566
Unemployment rate 15.6% 6.1%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.3%
State income tax 13.3% 2.5%
  • Rent prices in Mesa are 31% lower than in Lancaster, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Mesa.
    Home prices in Mesa are 8.5% lower than in Lancaster.
  • Income in Mesa is 13.6% lower than in Lancaster, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Mesa include Banner Health System, Mesa Public Schools, and The Boeing Company.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Mesa is 4.9% lower than in Lancaster. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family is the same in Mesa and Lancaster.
  • The unemployment rate in Mesa is 60.90% lower than in Lancaster.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Mesa, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Mesa are 19.02% lower than in Lancaster.
  • One perk of moving to Mesa is paying less in state income taxes, which are 81.20% lower than in Lancaster.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,853.54 in Mesa to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Lancaster.

How life is different in Lancaster vs. Mesa

Mesa Lancaster
Population 504,258 173,516
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 0
Walkability score 38 29
Bike friendliness score 60 40
Crime Index 44.67 45.5
Safety Index 55.33 54.5
Air Quality Good Good
  • Mesa's population is about 191% greater than Lancaster.
  • Mesa's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Lancaster's lower score of 0.
  • Mesa is more walkable than Lancaster with a score of 38 out of 100 vs Lancaster's 29 out of 100.
  • With a score of 60 out of 100, Mesa is more bike-friendly than Lancaster, which has a score of 40 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Mesa and Lancaster have a similar crime rate.
  • Mesa and Lancaster are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Mesa is good, and in Lancaster it's good.

Other things to consider for your Lancaster vs. Mesa move

  • Weather: Extreme heat may cause discomfort if you choose to move in the summer. Pay close attention to heat sensitive household items such as instruments, antique furniture, and electronics.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an โ€œunregulatedโ€ state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Mesa. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectivenessโ€”offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Mesa

Now that you've decided to make the move to "", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Mesa.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central
  • Southwest
  • Northwest
  • Northeast
  • West Central

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Red Mountain Ranch
  • Superstition Springs
  • Eastmark
  • Dobson Ranch
  • Alta Mesa

Things to do in Mesa

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in Arizona, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Mesa has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Mesa features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Commemorative Air Force Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, Mesa Arts Center, i.d.e.a. Museum, and Mesa Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Freestone Park, Riverview Park, and Pioneer Park โ€” among other spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Lancaster to Mesa?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Lancaster to Mesa. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Lancaster.

When is the cheapest time to move from Lancaster to Mesa?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Lancaster to Mesa, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Lancaster to Mesa take?

The 410-mile journey from Lancaster, CA to Mesa, AZ typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Lancaster offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Mesa.

Helpful moving resources