Quick answer: Expect to pay $1,633–$10,117 for a move from Ann Arbor to Lancaster, with most moves taking six to 17 days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 2,222 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Lancaster to Ann Arbor guide.

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Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Ann Arbor to Lancaster

Choosing a long-distance mover for your trip from Ann Arbor to Lancaster can be tough. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed about who you can truly count on.

Save yourself the hassle of sorting through countless moving companies — we've already narrowed down the best for you. Our favorites earned their spots thanks to rave reviews, budget-friendly prices, and versatile services to suit any type of move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 46 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies in Ann Arbor

  1. Handle With Care Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Palmer Moving Services: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Glass City Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/Hwcmd4260, https://x.com/HWCMD
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Handle With Care Moving's exceptional efficiency, careful handling of belongings, and courteous, hard-working team. Feedback often highlights polite staff, excellent communication, and rapid, damage-free moves that stand out from other moving companies. Most clients appreciate straightforward estimates, transparent pricing, and how the company keeps moves stress-free.
Negative feedback, though rare, centers on occasional item damage, challenges in resolving complaints, and unexpected charges or discrepancies in estimates. Handle With Care outpaces competitors in reliability and professionalism, making it one of the most trusted choices for moves in and out of Ann Arbor. Over 92% of the 249 reviews express strong satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/palmermoving/, https://x.com/PalmerMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors.
Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/gowondermove, https://x.com/campusconcepts
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers are raving about how smoothly Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage handles moving day. Nearly 90% of the 348 reviews are positive, standing out with efficiency, careful handling of belongings, professionalism, fair pricing, and excellent communication. Many mention a courteous and capable moving crew, stress-free organization, and no hidden fees.
People appreciate how quickly and gently items are moved, even under challenging conditions such as snowstorms or tight schedules. Some say this company is better—friendlier, faster, and more affordable—compared to other movers they've hired before. Negative feedback makes up less than 10% of reviews, with most complaints centered on occasional damaged items, delayed arrivals without updates, and moves costing more than originally estimated. While infrequent, a few customers describe frustrations about reaching support or compensation for damages. Overall, the strong pattern of positive input shows that Campus Concepts consistently delivers reliable, efficient, and well-priced moving services that outshine many other local options.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 545-5617

Company Info

State license #: 36269

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2582190

Alternate Names: Wondermove


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/GlassCityMovers/,
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving experiences with Glass City Movers, LLC stand out for professionalism, care, and strong teamwork. In reviewing 264 pieces of feedback, nearly 76% express satisfaction, highlighting the staff’s politeness, careful handling, efficient operations, clear communication, and competitive pricing. Customers repeatedly describe the crews as friendly, responsive, and attentive, confirming their approach makes moving far less stressful compared to other companies.
Affordable rates and accurate timing strengthen their reputation. Some input, about 23%, details dissatisfaction rooted in item damage, poor communication, or delays. The most frequent complaints involve belongings arriving damaged, missing, or late, and customers sometimes struggle to get updates or claims resolved. Neutral notes raise minor complaints about communication or compensation, but typically call the overall experience decent. Glass City Movers gets consistent praise for reliable service but could match top-tier competitors by improving damage prevention and communication throughout the move.
Show more
Get a Quote (419) 475-6767

Company Info

State license #: 1403449

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1403449

Alternate Names: Glass City Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Royal-Movers-1658269400878748/,
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive.
Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Ann Arbor to Lancaster?

Ann Arbor movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,645 - $6,323 $1,546 - $3,833 $1,618 - $3,066
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,287 - $10,117 $2,669 - $5,292 $1,633 - $3,685
4+ bedrooms $8,893 - $14,198 $3,662 - $7,162 $2,127 - $4,384
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,222 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Michigan to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,645 and $6,323. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,287 to $10,117 for the trip from MI to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,893 and $14,198.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to California

If you're moving from Michigan to California, expect to pay between $1,546 and $3,833 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,669 up to $5,292. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,662 and $7,162. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to California

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,618 and $3,066. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,633 and $3,685. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,127 and $4,384.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Ann Arbor to Lancaster movetoggle

The cost of Ann Arbor movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Ann Arbor to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,645, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,714.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Ann Arbor, 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 $1,618 to $3,843 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Lancaster

Moving from Ann Arbor to Lancaster comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Lancaster is generally more expensive than Ann Arbor, it'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:

Ann Arbor Lancaster
Average rent cost $2,260 $2,600
Average home value $474,909 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $66,964 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $2,176 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,344 $5,562
Unemployment rate 3.5% 15.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Lancaster, since prices are typically 15% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • Home prices are the same in Lancaster and Ann Arbor.
  • You’re likely to make a higher income living in Lancaster, where incomes are, on average, 11.6% higher than in Ann Arbor. Major 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 16.7% higher than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you'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 4.1% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 345.71% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Lancaster, since its sales taxes are 70.83% higher than what you are paying in Ann Arbor.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 212.94% higher than in Ann Arbor.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,501.84 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Ann Arbor.

How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Ann Arbor
Population 173,516 123,851
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 7
Walkability score 29 52
Bike friendliness score 40 71
Crime Index 45.5 31.0
Safety Index 54.5 79.18
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Lancaster's population is about 40% greater than Ann Arbor.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Ann Arbor's higher score of 7.
  • Lancaster is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 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 Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
  • Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 45.5 compared to Ann Arbor's 31.0. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
  • Lancaster is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 54.5 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Ann Arbor it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Lancaster Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

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

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what Lancaster has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Lancaster, such as the Lancaster Museum of Art & History, Western Hotel Museum, and Boyle Heights History Studios & Tours.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to Lancaster?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Ann Arbor to Lancaster are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Ann Arbor. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Lancaster?

Because most people are moving from Ann Arbor to Lancaster 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 Ann Arbor to Lancaster take?

Moving from Ann Arbor, MI to Lancaster, CA covers 2,222 miles and usually takes six to 17 days Need to move faster? Some Ann Arbor movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Lancaster.

Helpful moving resources