Factors that influence moving costs from Tampa to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Tampa movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Tampa to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,387, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,268.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Tampa, 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 $1,671 to $4,527. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Tampa to Lancaster

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

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

Tampa Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,930 $2,600
Average home value $371,271 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $66,802 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $3,232 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,108 $5,562
Unemployment rate 5.0% 15.6%
Sales tax 6.5% 10.25%
State income tax 0.0% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 35% higher than in Tampa, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Tampa.
    Home prices in Lancaster are 27.4% higher than in Tampa.
  • Income in Lancaster is 11.9% higher than in Tampa, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Lancaster include Antelope Valley Hospital, Antelope Valley Union High School District, and Lancaster School District.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Lancaster is 21.4% lower than in Tampa. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lancaster is 31.4% lower than in Tampa.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 212.00% higher than in Tampa.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 57.69% higher than in Tampa.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 13.30% higher than in Tampa.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,357.67 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Tampa.

How life is different in Tampa vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Tampa
Population 173,516 403,364
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 8
Walkability score 29 51
Bike friendliness score 40 51
Crime Index 45.5 46.15
Safety Index 54.5 53.85
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lancaster's population is about 57% less than Tampa.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Tampa's higher score of 8.
  • Lancaster is less walkable than Tampa with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Tampa's 51 out of 100.
  • Lancaster has a bike-friendliness score 40 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Tampa, which has a score of 51 out of 100.
  • Lancaster and Tampa have a similar crime rate.
  • Lancaster and Tampa are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Tampa it's good.

Other things to consider for your Tampa vs. Lancaster move

  • Weather: If you're looking to move to Lancaster, consider doing this on the months of May, October and April. Summers are hot and nearly rainless while winter could be mildly cold.
  • 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a โ€œT Numberโ€ 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: California 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 Lancaster. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.Opt for Released Value Protection โ€“ 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Lancaster

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

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

After getting comfortable in your new California home, itโ€™s time to see what Lancaster is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ€” thereโ€™s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lancaster include museums and art centers like the Lancaster Museum of Art & History, Western Hotel Museum, and Boyle Heights History Studios & Tours.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park โ€” and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Tampa to Lancaster, 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 Tampa to Lancaster take?

The 2,548-mile journey from Tampa, FL to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Tampa offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Lancaster.

Helpful moving resources