How we chose the best moving companies for your PA to LA move
After studying pricing from 106 Pennsylvania movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
-
Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
-
Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
-
Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Pennsylvania to Louisiana?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Pennsylvania to Louisiana.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,138 – $4,642 |
$917 – $2,247 |
$758 – $1,509 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,581 – $6,162 |
$1,656 – $3,305 |
$862 – $1,794 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,541 – $7,966 |
$2,290 – $4,347 |
$1,020 – $2,210 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,317-mile move from PA to
LA are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Pennsylvania to Louisiana
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Pennsylvania to Louisiana will cost between
$1,138 and
$4,642.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from PA to LA will
range from $2,581 to
$6,162, and a large move from Pennsylvania
to Louisiana will cost from $4,541
to $7,966.
Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to Louisiana
If you’re moving from Pennsylvania to Louisiana,
expect to pay between $917
and $2,247 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,656 up to
$3,305.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,290 and
$4,347. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Pennsylvania to Louisiana
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$758 and
$1,509.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $862
and $1,794. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,020 up to
$2,210 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from PA to LA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Pennsylvania to Louisiana. Here’s what might influence your total price:
-
Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
-
Time of year: The peak moving season in Pennsylvania is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
-
DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from PA to LA
A relocation from Pennsylvania to Louisiana comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs. Louisiana
Comparing expenses in Pennsylvania and Louisiana shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Pennsylvania |
Louisiana |
| Average rent |
$1,110 |
$996 |
| Average home cost |
$268,824 |
$201,519 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$73,170 |
$57,852 |
| Cost of living index |
99 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.4% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
6.34% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
3.07% |
4.25% |
-
Expect to pay around 10% less in rent in Louisiana than in Pennsylvania, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
-
Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 25% lower in Louisiana than in Pennsylvania.
-
Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Louisiana are about 21% lower than in Pennsylvania.
-
Living in Louisiana is about 7% cheaper than Pennsylvania. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
-
Unemployment in Louisiana is about 21% higher than in Pennsylvania. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
-
Sales taxes are 10% higher in Louisiana than in Pennsylvania, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
-
Income taxes are 38% higher in Louisiana than in Pennsylvania. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Louisiana vs. Pennsylvania
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Louisiana stacks up against Pennsylvania across important lifestyle factors:
|
Louisiana |
Pennsylvania |
| Population |
4,573,749 |
12,961,683 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60.2-38.2 |
Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high |
92ºF |
83ºF |
| Winter low |
39ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
60″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
38″ |
| Crime index |
33.77 |
17.62 |
-
With a population about 65% smaller than Pennsylvania, Louisiana offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
-
During the last presidential election, both Pennsylvania and Louisiana supported the Republican candidate.
-
Louisiana averages 92°F in summer compared to 83°F in Pennsylvania.
That extra heat means more sunshine and outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Louisiana bottoms out around 39°F, compared to 19°F in Pennsylvania.
A move to Louisiana with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
Expect about 60 inches of rain each year in Louisiana, a noticeable difference from the 44 inches you’re used to in Pennsylvania.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
Louisiana doesn’t get snow, while Pennsylvania sees around 38 inches annually.
Relocating to Louisiana means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
-
Louisiana has a higher crime rate than Pennsylvania with a crime index of 33.77 vs. 17.62.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Pennsylvania vs. Louisiana
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Louisiana versus Pennsylvania:
| Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
Pros of living in Louisiana |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant fun and recreational activities |
Delicious regional food |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Diverse culture |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Fun outdoor activities |
| Excellent education options |
Cajun culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Pennsylvania vs. Louisiana
Moving from Pennsylvania to Louisiana comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
Cons of living in Louisiana |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad driving conditions |
Pesky wildlife and insects |
| Nuclear power plants |
Limited economic opportunities |
| Unpredictable weather |
High crime rate |
| High taxes on gasoline |
Hot humidity |
Other things to consider for your Pennsylvania to Louisiana move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
-
State licensing:
If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC).
During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC.
In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify a Louisiana moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Louisiana, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Louisiana without a hitch. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Louisiana
Get ready to discover all that Louisiana has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Louisiana
- The National WWII Museum
- USS Kidd
- Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
- R. W. Norton Art Gallery
- Shreveport Water Works Museum
Parks in Louisiana
- Millennium Park
- Prien Lake Park
- Sam Houston Jones State Park
- Camp Salmen Nature Park
- Lafreniere Park
Sports teams in Louisiana
- New Orleans Saints (NFL)
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
- New Orleans Gold (MLR)
- Ragin’ Cajuns (NCAA)
- Tigers and Lady Tigers (NCAA)
Universities in Louisiana
- Louisiana State University
- Tulane University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of New Orleans
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Pennsylvania to Louisiana?
Do movers transport your car from Pennsylvania to Louisiana?
What are the benefits of moving from Pennsylvania to Louisiana?
The main reasons people are moving from Pennsylvania to Louisiana are the amazing upsides of living in Louisiana, such as low cost of living and delicious regional food.
Is it cheaper to live in Pennsylvania or Louisiana?
Living in Louisiana usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is more affordable in Louisiana,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 25% lower than in Pennsylvania.
However, taxes are
lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Louisiana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Louisiana?
You should make approximately $53,317 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Louisiana.
The cost of living in Louisiana is about $2,452 per month for an individual and $5,746 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Pennsylvania?
Some movers in Pennsylvania provide budget-friendly deals.
In Pennsylvania, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 1 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 2 movers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Pennsylvania moving services
Popular Pennsylvania routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When moving from Pennsylvania to Louisiana, expect to spend between
$2,581–$6,162 if using professional movers, about
$2,480 for a moving container, and around
$1,328
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
