Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,314) Cost to Move From Lancaster, CA to Philadelphia, PA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,692 miles from Lancaster to Philadelphia has an average cost ranging from $1,677 to $7,702. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly seven–21 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Lancaster to Philadelphia

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Lancaster to Philadelphia

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Lancaster to Philadelphia. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 20 interstate moving companies in Lancaster. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Philadelphia.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Lancaster to Philadelphia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,692-mile move from Lancaster to Philadelphia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,607 – $6,067
  • Moving Container $1,957 – $3,691
  • Rental Truck $1,400 – $2,885
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,615 – $7,702
  • Moving Container $2,440 – $4,938
  • Rental Truck $1,677 – $3,503
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,800 – $11,334
  • Moving Container $3,198 – $7,140
  • Rental Truck $1,998 – $4,340
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
PODS
Duarte, CA Uwchlan, PA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Palmdale, CA Aldan, PA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
American Van Lines
Glendale, CA Eagleview, PA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 25, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Santa Clarita, CA Lower Moreland, PA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Pasadena, CA Yardley, PA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
BLVD Moving
Lancaster, CA Hilltown, PA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
Safeway Moving
La Crescenta-Montrose, CA Ridley Park, PA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Phelan, CA Royersford, PA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
United Van Lines
Burbank, CA Trumbauersville, PA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 25, 2025
North American Van Lines
Rosamond, CA West Norriton, PA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Philadelphia, PA to Lancaster, CA guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Lancaster to Philadelphia moves

Organizing a move from Lancaster to Philadelphia can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 21 local movers in Lancaster known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Lancaster to Philadelphia.

  1. Speedwell Transportation Inc.: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  2. Antelope Valley Van & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  3. Elite Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentlemen’s Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
80.6% of all reviews were positive
13.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers praise Speedwell Transportation Inc. for delivering fast, professional moving services with efficient communication and careful handling of items. Staff members consistently earn positive remarks for politeness and reliability. Many share that their belongings arrived undamaged, with several highlighting a quick, organized process—even for large-scale or long-distance moves. Calls and questions are answered promptly, and flexible scheduling stands out when compared to other moving companies. The most common concerns relate to boxes going missing, reports of staff being rude, and delays, especially with longer-distance moves or communication breakdowns. Of 36 feedback entries, 80.6% were favorable—making Speedwell one of the more reputable options for dependable movers.
Get a Quote (661) 338-5998

Company Info

State license #: 159158

Years in Business: 37

DOT #: 1861478

Alternate Names: Speedwell Transportation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.6% of all reviews were positive
11.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Antelope Valley Van & Storage means working with friendly, professional teams who treat belongings with care. Out of 52 feedback entries, more than 84% spoke highly of professional and polite movers, careful handling, and efficient work. Customers often highlighted clear communication and the willingness to recommend the business to others. On the other hand, a few shared negative experiences involving unexpected charges, missing items, and difficulty resolving claims, issues that can harm trust, especially compared to other moving companies with more transparent billing. Most feedback shows quick moving, helpful attitudes, and reliable handling, making this company stand out for service quality.
Get a Quote (661) 947-4121

Company Info

State license #: 0061148

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 34380

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.0% of all reviews were positive
22.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day? Elite Moving & Storage Inc. receives high praise for efficiency, professional conduct, and careful handling of belongings, with 435 out of 572 feedback entries (76%) expressing satisfaction. Customers frequently highlight friendly, polite movers who work quickly yet take the time to protect fragile or valuable items. Many comment on stress-free moves, transparent quotes, and responsive communication. On the flip side, 23% of customer input describes serious concerns like unexpected charges not disclosed until after the move, damage to items, or delayed arrivals and deliveries. While complaints about hidden fees and poorly packed boxes appear more frequently here than with many moving companies, many customers still appreciate the above-average speed and care shown by the teams. Few express neutral sentiment, mostly noting pricing for packing materials. Elite stands out for fast, friendly service but should clarify pricing and better ensure item protection to match the best in the industry.
Get a Quote (888) 693-9080

Company Info

State license #: 0189126

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 1360438

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.4% of all reviews were positive
27.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Night-and-day experiences define Air 1 Moving & Storage’s reputation, based on 545 customer reviews. About 71% of the feedback highlights professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient and fast moves, and affordable prices. Many people praise the company for managing stressful relocations with skill, moving items without damage or delays, and maintaining courteous communication throughout. Customers frequently mention the team’s reliability and trustworthiness, setting Air 1 apart from other movers. On the other hand, nearly 27% of the input focuses on negative incidents—most notably, unexpected charges, damaged or lost items, and delivery delays. Some report being billed far above initial quotes or experiencing broken or missing property without adequate resolution. Issues with last-minute fees and withheld communication stand out as significant frustrations. Compared to industry competitors, Air 1 garners above-average praise for its staff’s professionalism but struggles with cost transparency and consistency on long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Company Info

State license #: 0189688

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 1095485

Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
7.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier with Gentlemen’s Moving Company, based on 498 pieces of customer input. An impressive 91.8% of feedback highlights efficient crews, careful handling, reliable staff, quick moving, and some of the most competitive rates around. Most customers praise the friendly, professional teams who protect property and keep the move on schedule, often at lower cost than rivals. A few clients, however, experience unreliable timing, damage to items, or run-ins with rude staff. About 8% mention delayed moves or damaged belongings, especially on bigger or long-distance jobs, and report issues with response times or complaint handling. Compared to many moving companies, Gentlemen’s consistently receives higher marks for speed, courtesy, and affordability—but buyers should still confirm expectations and timing to avoid the rare letdown.
Get a Quote (877) 613-5576

Company Info

State license #: 0191251

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2399435

Alternate Names: Oleg’s Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Lancaster to Philadelphia?

On average, moving companies in California charge about $128 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,314 – $5,294 $1,416 – $3,356 $1,473 – $2,800
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,615 – $7,702 $2,440 – $4,938 $1,677 – $3,503
4+ bedrooms $6,800 – $11,334 $3,198 – $7,140 $1,998 – $4,340
*Estimated cost ranges for a 2,692-mile move from Lancaster to Philadelphia are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Lancaster to Philadelphia

When planning a move to Philadelphia from Lancaster, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,314 and $5,294. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,615 and $7,702 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,800 to $11,334.

Cost of moving containers from Lancaster to Philadelphia

When you’re heading from Lancaster to Philadelphia, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,416 and $3,356. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,440 and $4,938. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,198 to $7,140. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lancaster to Philadelphia

A moving rental truck from Lancaster to Philadelphia is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,473 to $2,800. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,677 to $3,503, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Lancaster to Philadelphia costs around $1,998 to $4,340.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Lancaster to Philadelphia

The cost of Lancaster movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Lancaster to Philadelphia may only cost $2,540, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $11,269.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Lancaster.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,473–$3,694), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Lancaster to Philadelphia

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Philadelphia runs about 0% higher for singles and 11% higher for families than Lancaster.

Singles spend around $2,541 in Lancaster versus $2,540 in Lancaster; families pay $6,190 compared with $5,562.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Lancaster Philadelphia
Average 1 BR rent $2,305 $1,791
Average 3 BR rent $2,500 $3,116
Average home value $473,053 $216,914
Average income (per capita) $74,723 $70,746
Cost of living (single) $2,540 $2,541
Cost of living (family of four) $5,562 $6,190
Unemployment rate 15.6% 10.6%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 3.07%
  • Rent is about 35% less expensive in Philadelphia than in Lancaster, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 54% cheaper in Philadelphia than in Lancaster.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Philadelphia and Lancaster are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • As the cost of living for a single person differs by around 5% between Philadelphia and Lancaster, you likely won’t feel a significant change.
  • When considering a family move to Philadelphia, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 11% higher than in Lancaster.
  • Philadelphia has a lower unemployment rate than Lancaster by about 32%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 22% cheaper in Philadelphia compared to Lancaster. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 77% less in Pennsylvania compared to California, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Lancaster versus Philadelphia:

Living Expense Lancaster Philadelphia
Basic utilities $225.00 $269.29
Cell phone plan $43.00 $61.40
Dozen eggs $2.67 $4.30
Loaf of bread $5.51 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $90.00
Gym membership $40.00 $48.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Lancaster than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lancaster than in Philadelphia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lancaster than in Philadelphia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Lancaster than in Philadelphia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Lancaster than in Philadelphia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lancaster than in Philadelphia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Lancaster than in Philadelphia.

How life is different in Lancaster vs. Philadelphia

Lancaster Philadelphia
Population 173,516 1,603,797
Transportation score 0 9
Walkability score 29 75
Bike friendliness score 40 67
Crime index 45.5 66.09
Safety index 54.5 33.91
Air quality Good Good
  • Philadelphia’s population is about 824% greater than Lancaster.
  • Philadelphia has a public transportation score of 9 out of 10, while Lancaster has no measurable transit system (score of 0).
  • Philadelphia is more walkable than Lancaster with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Lancaster’s 29 out of 100.
  • With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia is more bike-friendly than Lancaster, which has a score of 40 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Philadelphia’s crime rate is higher than Lancaster with a score of 66.09 compared to Lancaster’s 45.5. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5%.
  • Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than Lancaster with a score of 33.91 vs Lancaster’s 54.5.
  • Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Lancaster it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Lancaster to Philadelphia move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Lancaster and Philadelphia are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the 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: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Pennsylvania, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Pennsylvania, 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 Philadelphia. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Philadelphia

With your sights set on Philly, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Philadelphia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cedar Park
  • Fishtown
  • Manayunk
  • Point Breeze
  • Washington Square West

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bella Vista
  • Bustleton
  • Chestnut Hill
  • Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
  • Foxchase
  • Roxborough

Things to do in Philadelphia

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

  • Arts and culture: Philadelphia is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, and Museum of the American Revolution.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love 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 Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)Philadelphia Union (MLS) game.

FAQ

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

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Lancaster to Philadelphia. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Lancaster.

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

Want to save on your move from Lancaster to Philadelphia? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Lancaster to Philadelphia take?

The 2,692-mile move from Lancaster, CA, to Philadelphia, , takes seven to 21 days. Some Lancaster movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Philadelphia.

What kinds of discounts do Lancaster movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In Lancaster, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. 1 movers offer special pricing for military members.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Lancaster?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 20 movers in Lancaster provide piano moving services. 15 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle