Factors that influence moving costs from Providence to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Providence movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Providence to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,552, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $14,140.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Providence, 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 $2,016 to $4,814. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Providence to Lancaster

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

Providence Lancaster
Average rent cost $2,200 $2,600
Average home value $398,785 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $69,956 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $2,493 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,406 $5,562
Unemployment rate 8.6% 15.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.25%
State income tax 5.99% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 18% higher than in Providence, 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 Providence.
    Home prices in Lancaster are 18.6% higher than in Providence.
  • Income in Lancaster is 6.8% higher than in Providence, 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 1.9% higher than in Providence. 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 2.9% higher than in Providence.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 81.40% higher than in Providence.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 46.43% higher than in Providence.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 122.04% higher than in Providence.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,056.56 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Providence.

How life is different in Providence vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Providence
Population 173,516 190,934
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 7
Walkability score 29 76
Bike friendliness score 40 61
Crime Index 45.5 49.84
Safety Index 54.5 50.16
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lancaster's population is about 9% less than Providence.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Providence's higher score of 7.
  • Lancaster is less walkable than Providence with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Providence's 76 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 Providence, which has a score of 61 out of 100.
  • Lancaster's crime rate is lower than Providence with a score of 45.5 compared to Providence's 49.84. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Providence neighborhoods are safer than 49.84%.
  • Lancaster is considered to be safer than Providence with a safety index of 54.5 vs Providence's 50.16.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Providence it's good.

Other things to consider for your Providence 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: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While California doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lancaster without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Lancaster

With your sights set on "", these are some of the most popular 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

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 Providence to Lancaster?

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

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

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

The 2,951-mile journey from Providence, RI to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Providence 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