When planning a move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, professional movers typically run between
$1,615 and $4,625, a moving container averages about
$1,665, and a rental truck is around
$500.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, you have a choice of 87 interstate moving companies that can accomodate your move to West Virginia. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Pennsylvania based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- The Armstrong Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Zippy Shell: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- South Hills Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 8917264
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage
Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920700
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3078473
Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.
Forward Moving LLC, serving Exton, PA, has been the reliable choice for local residential moving since 2018. Known for their comprehensive range of services, they handle everything from simple packing and unpacking to more specialized tasks like moving pianos, art, and antiques. While their Yelp reviews average a 3.9 rating from 11 reviewers, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average from 274 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Forward Moving LLC accepts credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3060008
Alternate Names: Masha Mobile Moving and Storage, LLC
Zippy Shell, a local moving company based in Pottstown, PA, has been serving the community since 2019. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an impressive 4.3 rating on Yelp from 39 reviews and an even higher 4.6 rating from 168 reviews on Google My Business, along with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many of their competitors, Zippy Shell offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, making them a one-stop-shop for all moving needs. Additionally, they are equipped to move delicate items such as pianos and antiques, ensuring a secure and efficient relocation process. For those looking for trusted local residential movers, Zippy Shell stands out as a reliable and highly-rated choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 8919262
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: BLL Charles Inc
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been serving the Glenshaw, PA area with reliable local residential moving services since 2018. Renowned for its comprehensive offerings, such as office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, this company stands out among local competitors. Clients appreciate their no-deposit policy and credit card payment options, evidenced by an impressive 4.7-star average from 853 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp reviews are more mixed. Overall, College Hunks offers a trustworthy and versatile moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 94
DOT #: 98045
South Hills Movers, a trusted name in Bethel Park, PA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1931. With an impressive array of offerings that include packing, unpacking, and specialized services for moving pianos, art, and antiques, they cater to a wide range of customer needs. While their Yelp profile shows a modest rating, they boast a stronger 4.1 average on Google and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a generally positive reputation. Compared to other nearby movers, South Hills Movers stands out for their long history and comprehensive service options, making them a reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Pennsylvania to West Virginia moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Pennsylvania and delivering it to your new place in West Virginia.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best Pennsylvania to West Virginia moving truck rentals
If you’re looking to cut costs on your move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you’ll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best Pennsylvania to West Virginia labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your PA to WV move
Using rate data from 103 Pennsylvania movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
- Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
- Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
- Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $947 – $2,897 | $633 – $1,470 | $311 – $608 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,615 – $4,625 | $1,125 – $2,206 | $330 – $671 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,358 – $5,875 | $1,487 – $2,537 | $410 – $820 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 335-mile move from PA to WV, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Pennsylvania to West Virginia
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, you can expect to spend between $947 and $2,897. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,615 to $4,625 on the same route (PA to WV). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Pennsylvania to West Virginia typically runs between $2,358 and $5,875.
Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to West Virginia
Moving from Pennsylvania to West Virginia? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $633 and $1,470. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,125 to $2,206. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,487 up to $2,537. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Pennsylvania to West Virginia
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 $311 and $608. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $330 and $671. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $410 and $820.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from PA to WV
There are many factors that influence Pennsylvania moving costs. The cost to move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia will depend on these factors:
- How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
- When you move: Summer moves in Pennsylvania fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
- Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from PA to WV
Moving between Pennsylvania and West Virginia involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs. West Virginia
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Pennsylvania and West Virginia. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates, this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle. Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
| Pennsylvania | West Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,110 | $899 |
| Average home cost | $268,824 | $168,172 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,170 | $55,217 |
| Cost of living index | 99 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 4.2% |
| Average sales tax | 6.34% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 6.5% |
- Rent in West Virginia is about 19% cheaper than in Pennsylvania, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in West Virginia are roughly 37% less than in Pennsylvania, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
- Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in West Virginia are about 25% lower than in Pennsylvania.
- Moving to West Virginia is about 9% cheaper than living in Pennsylvania. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
- West Virginia has a higher unemployment rate than Pennsylvania by about 24%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
- Sales tax is similar in West Virginia and Pennsylvania, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
- Income taxes in West Virginia are 112% higher than in Pennsylvania. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in West Virginia vs. Pennsylvania
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how West Virginia differs from Pennsylvania in these areas.
| West Virginia | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,782,959 | 12,961,683 |
| Political leaning | Republican 69-30 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 83ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 21ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 45″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 38″ |
| Crime index | 17.47 | 17.62 |
- With a population about 86% smaller than Pennsylvania, West Virginia offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
- In the last presidential election, both Pennsylvania and West Virginia voted Republican.
- Summer highs in West Virginia average 83°F, almost the same as 83°F in Pennsylvania. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
- In West Virginia, winter lows are about 21°F, while Pennsylvania averages 19°F. With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
- In West Virginia, you’ll get about 45 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 44 inches you’ve been used to in Pennsylvania. Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
- In West Virginia, you’ll get about 33 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania usually sees around 38 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar in both states, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
- West Virginia and Pennsylvania both have similar crime rates (17.62). Keep in mind, though, that crime levels can differ significantly between cities and neighborhoods, so it’s smart to check local crime statistics for a more accurate view.
Comparing the pros of Pennsylvania vs. West Virginia
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in West Virginia stacks up against Pennsylvania:
| Pros of living in Pennsylvania | Pros of living in West Virginia |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Low cost of living |
| Abundant fun and recreational activities | Abundant outdoor activities |
| Beautiful landscapes | 4 distinct seasons of weather |
| Ample economic opportunity | Immense natural beauty |
| Excellent education options | Relaxed small cities and towns |
Comparing the cons of living in Pennsylvania vs. West Virginia
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Pennsylvania | Cons of living in West Virginia |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | Dismal economy |
| Bad driving conditions | High rates of crime |
| Nuclear power plants | High rates of drug abuse |
| Unpredictable weather | Shrinking population |
| High taxes on gasoline | Lack of diversity |
Other things to consider for your Pennsylvania to West Virginia move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a West Virginia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: West Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to West Virginia right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in West Virginia
Get ready to discover West Virginia. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in West Virginia
- West Virginia State Museum
- The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
- Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- Clay Center
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum
Parks in West Virginia
- Oglebay Park
- Ritter Park
- Wheeling Park
- Haddad Riverfront Park
- Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
Sports teams in West Virginia
- Wheeling Nailers (ECHL)
- West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA)
Universities in West Virginia
- West Virginia University
- Marshall University
- Shepherd University
- West Virginia State University
- Fairmont State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia?
Hiring a full-service Pennsylvania moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Pennsylvania to West Virginia?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving package. Alternatively, you can book vehicle transport from Pennsylvania to West Virginia separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Pennsylvania to West Virginia?
More and more folks are relocating from Pennsylvania to West Virginia to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in Pennsylvania. Housing is more affordable in West Virginia, with average rent about 19% less and home prices 37% lower than in Pennsylvania. However, taxes are lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by West Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in West Virginia?
If you’re planning to live on your own in West Virginia, aim for an income of around $53,753 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,211 if you’re flying solo, or $4,826 for a family of four. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Coalton and Charleston usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Pennsylvania?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Pennsylvania. There are 1 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts. Savings for seniors are available from 1 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
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