New Orleans, LA to Pittsburgh, PA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

How we chose the best LA→PA movers

The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 32 Louisiana movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

What to know before moving from New Orleans to Pittsburgh

Many movers find Pittsburgh easier on the wallet than New Orleans - roughly 32% less for singles and 37% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,129 for one person in Pittsburgh versus $3,134 in New Orleans. For a family of four, it's $5,011 compared with $7,905.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

	New Orleans	Pittsburgh
Average 1 BR rent	$1,813	$1,710
Average 3 BR rent	$3,150	$2,917
Average home value	$231,649	$222,451
Average income (per capita)	$51,116	$54,306
Cost of living (single)	$3,134	$2,129
Cost of living (family of four)	$7,905	$5,011
Unemployment rate	11.0%	7.1%
Sales tax	10.0%	7.0%
State income tax	4.25%	3.07%

source: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation

When relocating from New Orleans to Pittsburgh, expect to find rent about 15% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Pittsburgh and New Orleans, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 6% higher in Pittsburgh compared to New Orleans, which might allow for more savings or investments.
You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Pittsburgh, as the cost of living for a single person is 32% lower compared to New Orleans.
A move to Pittsburgh can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 37% less than what it costs in New Orleans.
The unemployment rate in Pittsburgh is about 35% lower than in New Orleans. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
Sales taxes are 30% less in Pittsburgh relative to New Orleans. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 28% below those in Louisiana. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between New Orleans and Pittsburgh:

Living Expense	New Orleans	Pittsburgh
Basic utilities	$244.46	$263.34
Cell phone plan	$58.50	$53.44
Dozen eggs	$4.35	$4.62
Loaf of bread	$4.03	$4.03
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal)	$25.50	$20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant)	$124.00	$60.00
Gym membership	$61.75	$43.33

Basic utilities cost less in New Orleans than in Pittsburgh, helping trim your monthly bills.
Cell phone plans typically cost more in New Orleans than in Pittsburgh.
Eggs are less expensive in New Orleans than in Pittsburgh.
Bread costs are about the same in both places.
A quick meal tends to cost more in New Orleans than in Pittsburgh.
A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in New Orleans than in Pittsburgh.
Gym memberships cost more in New Orleans than in Pittsburgh.

How life is different in New Orleans vs. Pittsburgh

	New Orleans	Pittsburgh
Population	383,997	303,255
Transportation score	7	8
Walkability score	58	62
Bike friendliness score	66	55
Crime index	67.31	37.74
Safety index	32.69	62.26
Air quality	Good	Good

source: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow

Pittsburgh's population is about 21% less than New Orleans.
Pittsburgh's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than New Orleans's score of 7.
Pittsburgh is more walkable than New Orleans with a score of 62 out of 100 vs New Orleans's 58 out of 100.
Pittsburgh has a bike-friendliness score of 55 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as New Orleans, which has a score of 66.
Pittsburgh's crime rate is lower than New Orleans with a score of 37.74 compared to New Orleans's 67.31. This means that Pittsburgh neighborhoods are safer than 37.74% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New Orleans neighborhoods are safer than 67.31%.
Pittsburgh is considered to be safer than New Orleans with a safety index of 62.26 vs New Orleans's 32.69.
Air quality in Pittsburgh is Good, and in New Orleans it's Good.

Other things to consider for your New Orleans to Pittsburgh move

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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
State regulator: Pennsylvania’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
Moving Permits: Pennsylvania does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Pittsburgh. Start the process here.
Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Pittsburgh

Planning your move to Birmingham of America? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Pittsburgh.

Best neighborhoods for singles

Downtown
Greenfield
Oakland
Polish Hill
Shadyside

Best neighborhoods for families

Brookline
Highland Park
Point Breeze
Regent Square
Squirrel Hill North

Things to do in Pittsburgh

After settling into your new Pennsylvania home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Pittsburgh has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

Arts and culture: Pittsburgh features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Duquesne Incline, Bicycle Heaven, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and The Andy Warhol Museum.
Outdoor recreation: The city's Point State Park, Schenley Park, Frick Park, and West End - Elliot Overlook Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB)Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL)Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL Championship) game.

source: AttractionsofAmerica

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New Orleans to Pittsburgh?

Planning your move from New Orleans to Pittsburgh? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in New Orleans.

When is the cheapest time to move from New Orleans to Pittsburgh?

Because most people are moving from New Orleans to Pittsburgh in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from New Orleans to Pittsburgh take?

The 1,090-mile journey from New Orleans, LA to Pittsburgh, PA, typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in New Orleans offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Pittsburgh.

Are there special savings available from movers in New Orleans?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in New Orleans?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In New Orleans, 7 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Louisiana has 18 piano movers and 11 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.