Factors that influence moving costs from Chesapeake to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Chesapeake movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Chesapeake to Lancaster might cost as little as $1,448, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,310.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Chesapeake, 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 $1,845 to $4,672. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Chesapeake to Lancaster

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

Chesapeake Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,800 $2,600
Average home value $375,209 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $63,484 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $1,882 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,656 $5,562
Unemployment rate 5.0% 15.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 5.75% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Lancaster are 44% higher than in Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake.
    Home prices in Lancaster are 26.1% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • Income in Lancaster is 17.7% higher than in Chesapeake, 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 35.0% higher than in Chesapeake. 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 52.1% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 212.00% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lancaster, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lancaster are 70.83% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 131.30% higher than in Chesapeake.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,048.88 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chesapeake.

How life is different in Chesapeake vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Chesapeake
Population 173,516 249,422
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 2
Walkability score 29 21
Bike friendliness score 40 35
Crime Index 45.5 25.0
Safety Index 54.5 70.88
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lancaster's population is about 30% less than Chesapeake.
  • Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Chesapeake's higher score of 2.
  • Lancaster is more walkable than Chesapeake with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Chesapeake's 21 out of 100.
  • With a score of 40 out of 100, Lancaster is more bike-friendly than Chesapeake, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Chesapeake with a score of 45.5 compared to Chesapeake's 25.0. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chesapeake neighborhoods are safer than 25.0%.
  • Lancaster is considered to be less safe than Chesapeake with a score of 54.5 vs Chesapeake's 70.88.
  • Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Chesapeake it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chesapeake 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

After settling into your new California home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Lancaster has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Lancaster is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chesapeake to Lancaster?

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

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

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

The 2,704-mile journey from Chesapeake, VA to Lancaster, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Chesapeake 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