Factors that influence moving costs from Pittsburgh to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Pittsburgh movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Pittsburgh to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,412, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,047.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Pittsburgh , 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 $1,581 to $4,075. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Pittsburgh to Lancaster

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

Pittsburgh Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,500 $2,600
Average home value $222,451 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $54,306 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $2,129 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,011 $5,562
Unemployment rate 7.1% 15.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.25%
State income tax 3.07% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 73% higher than in Pittsburgh , 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 Pittsburgh .
    Home prices in Lancaster are 112.7% higher than in Pittsburgh .
  • Income in Lancaster is 37.6% higher than in Pittsburgh , 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 19.3% higher than in Pittsburgh . 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 11.0% higher than in Pittsburgh .
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 119.72% higher than in Pittsburgh .
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 46.43% higher than in Pittsburgh .
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 333.22% higher than in Pittsburgh .

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,579.15 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Pittsburgh .

How life is different in Pittsburgh vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Pittsburgh
Population 173,516 303,255
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 8
Walkability score 29 62
Bike friendliness score 40 55
Crime Index 45.5 37.74
Safety Index 54.5 62.26
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lancaster's population is about 43% less than Pittsburgh .
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Pittsburgh 's higher score of 8.
  • Lancaster is less walkable than Pittsburgh with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Pittsburgh 's 62 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 Pittsburgh , which has a score of 55 out of 100.
  • Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Pittsburgh with a score of 45.5 compared to Pittsburgh 's 37.74. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Pittsburgh neighborhoods are safer than 37.74%.
  • Lancaster is considered to be less safe than Pittsburgh with a score of 54.5 vs Pittsburgh 's 62.26.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Pittsburgh it's good.

Other things to consider for your Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Lancaster?

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

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

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

The 2,409-mile journey from Pittsburgh , PA to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Pittsburgh 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