Factors that influence moving costs from Baltimore to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Baltimore movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Baltimore to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,414, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $12,977.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Baltimore, 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 $1,834 to $4,599. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Baltimore to Lancaster

Moving from Baltimore to Lancaster comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Lancaster is generally more expensive than Baltimore, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Baltimore Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,600 $2,600
Average home value $180,790 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $58,349 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $2,223 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,088 $5,562
Unemployment rate 7.9% 15.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 5.75% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 63% higher than in Baltimore, 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 Baltimore.
    Home prices in Lancaster are 161.7% higher than in Baltimore.
  • Income in Lancaster is 28.1% higher than in Baltimore, 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.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Lancaster, since the cost of living for a single person in Lancaster is 14.3% higher than in Baltimore. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Lancaster, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Lancaster is 9.3% higher than in Baltimore.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 97.47% higher than in Baltimore.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 70.83% higher than in Baltimore.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 131.30% higher than in Baltimore.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,427.80 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Baltimore.

How life is different in Baltimore vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Baltimore
Population 173,516 585,708
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 8
Walkability score 29 64
Bike friendliness score 40 53
Crime Index 45.5 72.72
Safety Index 54.5 27.28
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lancaster's population is about 70% less than Baltimore.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Baltimore's higher score of 8.
  • Lancaster is less walkable than Baltimore with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Baltimore's 64 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 Baltimore, which has a score of 53 out of 100.
  • Lancaster's crime rate is lower than Baltimore with a score of 45.5 compared to Baltimore's 72.72. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Baltimore neighborhoods are safer than 72.72%.
  • Lancaster is considered to be safer than Baltimore with a safety index of 54.5 vs Baltimore's 27.28.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Baltimore it's good.

Other things to consider for your Baltimore 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: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • 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: 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: California doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Lancaster. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Lancaster

Ready to relocate to ""? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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 settling into your new California home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Lancaster has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Lancaster is home to museums and cultural arts 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€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

The 2,627-mile journey from Baltimore, MD to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Baltimore 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