Factors that influence moving costs from Lansing to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Lansing to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,533, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,050.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Lansing, 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 $1,451 to $3,770. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Lansing to Lancaster

Moving from Lansing to Lancaster comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Lancaster is generally more expensive than Lansing, 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:

Lansing Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,129 $2,600
Average home value $148,542 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $1,595 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,199 $5,562
Unemployment rate 7.4% 15.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 130% higher than in Lansing, 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 Lansing.
    Home prices in Lancaster are 218.5% higher than in Lansing.
  • Income in Lancaster is 15.4% higher than in Lansing, 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 59.2% higher than in Lansing. 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 32.5% higher than in Lansing.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 110.81% higher than in Lansing.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 70.83% higher than in Lansing.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 212.94% higher than in Lansing.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,777.43 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Lansing.

How life is different in Lansing vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Lansing
Population 173,516 112,644
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 5
Walkability score 29 46
Bike friendliness score 40 55
Crime Index 45.5 48.66
Safety Index 54.5 51.34
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lancaster's population is about 54% greater than Lansing.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Lansing's higher score of 5.
  • Lancaster is less walkable than Lansing with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Lansing's 46 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 Lansing, which has a score of 55 out of 100.
  • Lancaster and Lansing have a similar crime rate.
  • Lancaster and Lansing are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Lansing it's good.

Other things to consider for your Lansing 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

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in California, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Lancaster has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Lancaster features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

The 2,200-mile journey from Lansing, MI to Lancaster, CA typically takes six to 17 days. Some movers in Lansing 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