Factors that influence moving costs from Philadelphia to Lancaster
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Lancaster
Moving from Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia than in Lancaster, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Philadelphia compares to Lancaster so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Philadelphia | Lancaster | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,695 | $2,600 |
Average home value | $216,914 | $473,053 |
Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $74,723 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,541 | $2,540 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,190 | $5,562 |
Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 15.6% |
Sales tax | 8.0% | 10.25% |
State income tax | 3.07% | 13.3% |
- Rent prices in Lancaster are 53% higher than in Philadelphia, which means youโll have less money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Philadelphia.
Home prices in Lancaster are 118.1% higher than in Philadelphia. - Income in Lancaster is 5.6% higher than in Philadelphia, 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 is the same in Lancaster and Philadelphia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Lancaster is 10.1% lower than in Philadelphia.
- The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 47.17% higher than in Philadelphia.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโs sales taxes in Lancaster are 28.13% higher than in Philadelphia.
- State income taxes in Lancaster are 333.22% higher than in Philadelphia.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,998.82 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Lancaster
Lancaster | Philadelphia | |
---|---|---|
Population | 173,516 | 1,603,797 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 0 | 9 |
Walkability score | 29 | 75 |
Bike friendliness score | 40 | 67 |
Crime Index | 45.5 | 66.09 |
Safety Index | 54.5 | 33.91 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Lancaster's population is about 89% less than Philadelphia.
- Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Philadelphia's higher score of 9.
- Lancaster is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Philadelphia's 75 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 Philadelphia, which has a score of 67 out of 100.
- Lancaster's crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 45.5 compared to Philadelphia's 66.09. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
- Lancaster is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 54.5 vs Philadelphia's 33.91.
- Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Philadelphia it's good.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia 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 regulationsโsome 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 โT 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\โs license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You wonโt need a moving permit in California, though it\โs 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 youโve 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, itโs the perfect time to explore Lancaster. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll 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 cityโs 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 Philadelphia to Lancaster?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Philadelphia to Lancaster. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Philadelphia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Lancaster?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia to Lancaster take?
The 2,692-mile journey from Philadelphia, PA to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Philadelphia 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.