How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to PA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 95 Washington moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Washington to Pennsylvania?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Washington to Pennsylvania.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,411 – $5,751 |
$1,272 – $3,261 |
$1,432 – $2,559 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$4,270 – $8,402 |
$2,327 – $4,795 |
$1,431 – $3,111 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$7,334 – $12,488 |
$3,237 – $6,264 |
$1,827 – $4,012 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,588-mile move from WA to
PA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Washington to Pennsylvania
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to Pennsylvania typically costs between
$1,411 and
$5,751.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$4,270
and $8,402
when moving from WA to PA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Washington to Pennsylvania,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,334
up to $12,488.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to Pennsylvania
If you’re relocating from Washington to Pennsylvania,
you’ll typically spend between $1,272
and $3,261 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,327 up to
$4,795.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,237 and
$6,264. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington to Pennsylvania
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$1,432 and
$2,559.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,431 to
$3,111.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,827 and
$4,012.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to PA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Washington to Pennsylvania. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Washington, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from WA to PA
Transitioning from Washington to Pennsylvania gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Washington vs. Pennsylvania
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Washington and Pennsylvania are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Washington |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
3.07% |
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Rent is about 42% less expensive in Pennsylvania than in Washington, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Pennsylvania are about 54% lower than in Washington, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Pennsylvania are roughly 19% lower than in Washington.
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Moving to Pennsylvania costs about 14% less than living in Washington. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 29% lower than Washington, Pennsylvania offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax rates are similar in Pennsylvania and Washington, so this won’t affect your cost of living when you relocate.
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Pennsylvania has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Pennsylvania vs. Washington
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Pennsylvania and Washington compare.
|
Pennsylvania |
Washington |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
37.32 |
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If you’re moving from Washington to Pennsylvania, you’ll find Pennsylvania has about 66% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Pennsylvania leaned Republican, while Washington supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Pennsylvania is 83°F, while Washington averages 79°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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In the coldest months, Pennsylvania dips to about 19°F, colder than 31°F in Washington.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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Get ready for about 44 inches of rain each year in Pennsylvania.
That’s quite a change from the 38 inches you’re used to back in Washington. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
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Each year, Pennsylvania gets about 38 inches of snow, far more than the 18 inches you might be accustomed to in Washington.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
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Pennsylvania boasts a lower crime rate than Washington, with a crime index of 17.62 compared to 37.32.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Washington vs. Pennsylvania
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Pennsylvania to Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| High quality of life |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious seafood |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. Pennsylvania
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Washington to Pennsylvania:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
| Constant rain |
Harsh winter weather |
| Bad traffic |
Bad driving conditions |
| High cost of living |
Nuclear power plants |
| High crime rate |
Unpredictable weather |
| Natural disasters |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your Washington to Pennsylvania move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
State licensing:
For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services.
Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Pennsylvania moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Pennsylvania, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Pennsylvania. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Pennsylvania
Get excited to explore Pennsylvania. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to Pennsylvania?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Washington to
Pennsylvania
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to Pennsylvania?
Many people are making the move from Washington to Pennsylvania to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Pennsylvania has to offer, like low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or Pennsylvania?
Living in Pennsylvania usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in Pennsylvania,
with average rent about 42% less and home prices 54% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and Pennsylvania.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
Planning to move to Pennsylvania? A single adult should aim for an income of around $56,150 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,452 for an individual, or $5,603 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Washington:
4 provide military discounts;
5 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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When relocating from Washington to Pennsylvania, expect professional movers to cost around
$4,270 to
$8,402, roughly
$3,561 for a container move, and close to
$2,271
for a rental truck.
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