Factors that influence moving costs from Raleigh to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Raleigh to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,392, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $12,896.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Raleigh, 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 $1,739 to $4,223. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to Lancaster

Moving from Raleigh 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 Raleigh than in Lancaster, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Raleigh Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,670 $2,600
Average home value $431,795 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $6,077 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,077 $5,562
Unemployment rate 4.3% 15.6%
Sales tax 7.25% 10.25%
State income tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 56% higher than in Raleigh, 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 Raleigh.
    Home prices in Lancaster are 9.6% higher than in Raleigh.
  • Income in Lancaster is 2,805.2% higher than in Raleigh, 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 58.2% lower than in Raleigh. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lancaster is 8.5% lower than in Raleigh.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 262.79% higher than in Raleigh.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 41.38% higher than in Raleigh.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 195.56% higher than in Raleigh.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,253.91 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Raleigh.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Raleigh
Population 173,516 467,665
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 4
Walkability score 29 31
Bike friendliness score 40 39
Crime Index 45.5 38.87
Safety Index 54.5 60.13
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Lancaster's population is about 63% less than Raleigh.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Raleigh's higher score of 4.
  • Lancaster and Raleigh are similarily walkable.
  • Both Lancaster and Raleigh have the same bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, meaning Lancaster is about as safe for cyclists as Raleigh. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
  • Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 45.5 compared to Raleigh's 38.87. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • Lancaster is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 54.5 vs Raleigh's 60.13.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Raleigh it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh 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 regulationsโ€”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 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in California, though it\โ€™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 toLancaster 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 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Lancaster

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Lancaster to check out.

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

Now that you've made the move to California, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Lancaster. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™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 cityโ€™s Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park โ€” 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 Raleigh to Lancaster?

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

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

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

The 2,535-mile journey from Raleigh, NC to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Raleigh 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