Quick answer: A typical 2,167-mile move from Dayton to Lancaster runs $1,666–$9,125 and takes six to 17 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

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

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Dayton to Lancaster

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Dayton to Lancaster isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any 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 OH to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 68 Ohio 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Dayton to Lancaster journey

Organizing a move from Dayton to Lancaster can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Dayton known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Dayton to Lancaster.

  1. American Way Van & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  3. Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Mayberry's Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Lincoln Storage & Moving Inc: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/American.Way.Van.Storage/?ref=ts, https://x.com/awvs
77% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about the professionalism, careful handling, and consistently strong communication from American Way Van & Storage, with 77% of all input showing high satisfaction. Many praise the friendly teams for efficient moves and attention to detail, especially around fragile items. Quotes are typically accurate, and staff go out of their way to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Some even highlight the company’s reliability as a deciding factor over competitors. A number of clients return for additional moves after positive past experiences. Negative feedback, accounting for 22% of responses, centers on damaged belongings, surprise charges, and slow or unresponsive communication when resolving issues. Claims over damaged goods or missing items sometimes take weeks or months to resolve and may end with unsatisfactory compensation. Compared to others in the moving industry, American Way stands out for customer service and staff courtesy but shares the common pitfalls of moving companies: disputes about damage and billing. 145 reviews were analyzed, showing most people feel their property is respected and the process is handled by a professional team, yet the risk of damage and unexpected costs remains.
Show more
Get a Quote (937) 898-7294

Company Info

State license #: 00139517

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 76628


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/TWOMENANDATRUCKCincinnati/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenAndATruck?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
87% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, friendly, and professional defines most feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Analysis of 247 reviews shows 87% are positive, highlighting professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of items, quick moving, and helpful movers. Many customers rave about stress-free moves and crews who show genuine concern for belongings.
Helpful office staff and transparent communication rank above experiences with most other moving companies. On the flip side, 12% cite problems, especially damage to items, big discrepancies between estimates and final costs, and unresolved complaints. Some mention poor packing or careless handling, while others are frustrated by unhelpful customer service when things go wrong. A small set of neutral comments focus on truck sizes not matching job needs, requiring extra moving trips. Compared to others, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for strong praise in reliability and staff attitude, but repeat concerns about damage, cost overruns, and complaint handling indicate areas for improvement.
Show more
Get a Quote (513) 823-4125

Company Info

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LewisAndMichaelMovingAndStorage/,
79% of all reviews were positive
21% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback shows Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage excels in professionalism, speed, and careful handling. Out of 84 reviews, nearly 79% reflect satisfaction, praising courteous staff, efficient moves, and value pricing. Customers often describe their moving crews as respectful and quick, with many recommending the company to friends and family.
Yet, about 21% of the feedback reports damaged items, frustrating wait times, and poor follow-up after issues. A small number mention lack of care with fragile goods, unexpected damage, and unresponsive communication when problems arise. Lewis & Michael stands out for efficiency and professionalism compared to typical movers, but those with valuable or delicate belongings should verify insurance and clarify expectations up front to avoid mishaps.
Show more
Get a Quote (937) 252-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 75

DOT #: 728239

Alternate Names: Lewis & Michael, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/mayberrysvan/,
84% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Exceeding expectations, Mayberry's Van & Storage, Inc. receives strong support from its customers. Out of 32 reviews examined, 84% offered positive input, with customers noting professional movers, careful handling of belongings, efficiency, reasonable rates, and frequent recommendations to friends and family. People highlight the staff's politeness and consistent service quality.
Negative feedback is rare but centers on serious problems, such as lost or damaged items, unexpected billing differences, and difficulty communicating with the company. Most movers in this industry struggle to match this level of satisfaction, making Mayberry's a standout choice for reliability and professionalism, with only a small share of unresolved issues reported.
Show more
Get a Quote (937) 298-8800

Company Info

Years in Business: 80

DOT #: 81407


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/TheLincolnStorageandMovingCompany, https://twitter.com/lincolnstorage
61% of all reviews were positive
39% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback paints a clear picture of Lincoln Storage & Moving Inc’s strengths and challenges. About 61% of reviews are positive, out of 28 total analyzed. Customers frequently mention great communication, polite and professional staff, reasonable prices, and efficient service.
Many say the company shows reliability and earns repeated business for smooth, well-organized moves. On the other hand, several reviewers point out critical issues: delayed or canceled moves without notice, items being damaged or mishandled, and billing surprises. Compared to other movers, Lincoln Storage & Moving Inc stands out for its friendly, communicative crews and affordability, but inconsistent reliability and occasional losses or damages keep some customers dissatisfied. Choosing Lincoln means excellent service for many, but some experience setbacks that concern punctuality and responsibility.
Show more
Get a Quote (937) 223-8165

Company Info

State license #: 00606034

Years in Business: 108

DOT #: 1008646

Alternate Names: Lincoln Storage and Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Dayton to Lancaster?

Dayton movers charge $140 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 $1,661 - $6,846 $1,570 - $3,742 $1,524 - $3,032
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,254 - $9,125 $2,685 - $5,323 $1,666 - $3,717
4+ bedrooms $7,982 - $14,641 $3,758 - $7,274 $2,125 - $4,380
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,167 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 Ohio to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ohio to California typically costs between $1,661 and $6,846. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,254 and $9,125 when moving from OH to CA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Ohio to California, you're looking at costs ranging from $7,982 up to $14,641.

Cost of moving containers from Ohio to California

If you're moving from Ohio to California, expect to pay between $1,570 and $3,742 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,685 up to $5,323. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,758 and $7,274. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio 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 $1,524 and $3,032. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,666 and $3,717. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,125 and $4,380.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from Dayton to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Dayton movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Dayton to Lancaster (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,661, while larger moves may reach $13,337 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Dayton,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $1,524 to $3,723), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Dayton to Lancaster

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

Dayton Lancaster
Average rent cost $925 $2,600
Average home value $135,815 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $62,673 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $1,593 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,788 $5,562
Unemployment rate 6.8% 15.6%
Sales tax 7.5% 10.25%
State income tax 3.5% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Lancaster, since prices are typically 181% higher than in Dayton.
  • The home prices in Lancaster are 248.3% higher than in Dayton, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Lancaster, where incomes are, on average, 19.2% higher than in Dayton. 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 59.4% higher than in Dayton. 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 46.8% higher than in Dayton.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 129.41% higher than in Dayton.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Lancaster, since its sales taxes are 36.67% higher than what you are paying in Dayton.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 280.00% higher than in Dayton.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,783.43 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Dayton.

How life is different in Dayton vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Dayton
Population 173,516 137,644
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 6
Walkability score 29 45
Bike friendliness score 40 47
Crime Index 45.5 4.0
Safety Index 54.5 40.68
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • The population of Lancaster is about 26% greater than Dayton, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Getting around Lancaster without a car might be more difficult than in Dayton. Lancaster has a public transportation score of 0 out of 10, whereas Dayton is ranked 6. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Lancaster neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Dayton. Based on its score of 29 out of 100, Lancaster isn't as walkable as Dayton, which has a score of 45 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Lancaster, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Dayton. While Dayton has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, Lancaster earned a 40. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • The crime rate in Lancaster is higher than in Dayton, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 45.5 in Lancaster, it is 4.0 in Dayton. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Lancaster than in Dayton, based on Lancaster's safety index of 54.5 versus 40.68 for Dayton. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Lancaster has better air quality than in Dayton. Lancaster has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Dayton. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Dayton 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 “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. 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't require moving permits, but it'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. You'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 – 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 getting comfortable in your new California home, it's time to see what Lancaster is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • 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 city's Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park — among other sites — 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 Dayton to Lancaster?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Dayton to Lancaster You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Dayton.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Dayton to Lancaster are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Dayton to Lancaster take?

The 2,167-mile journey from Dayton, OH to Lancaster, CA, typically takes six to 17 days. Some movers in Dayton 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