How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to PA move
Using rate data from 10 West Virginia movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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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 West Virginia to Pennsylvania?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from West Virginia
to Pennsylvania with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$905 – $2,909 |
$623 – $1,377 |
$322 – $593 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,605 – $4,743 |
$1,033 – $1,989 |
$356 – $668 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,491 – $6,271 |
$1,352 – $2,684 |
$425 – $800 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 338-mile move from WV to
PA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 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 West Virginia to Pennsylvania
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from West Virginia to Pennsylvania,
you can expect to spend between $905
and $2,909.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $1,605 to
$4,743 on the same route
(WV to PA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from West Virginia to Pennsylvania typically runs between
$2,491 and
$6,271.
Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to Pennsylvania
Moving from West Virginia to Pennsylvania? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $623 and
$1,377. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,033 to
$1,989. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,352 up to
$2,684. 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 West Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from West Virginia to Pennsylvania
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
$322 and
$593.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$356 and
$668.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $425 and
$800.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WV to PA
There are many factors that influence West Virginia moving costs. The cost to move from West Virginia to Pennsylvania 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.
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When you move: Summer moves in West Virginia fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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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 WV to PA
Moving between West Virginia and Pennsylvania involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: West Virginia vs. Pennsylvania
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
West Virginia and Pennsylvania. 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:
|
West Virginia |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$899 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$168,172 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$55,217 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.2% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
6.5% |
3.07% |
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Rent costs 23% more in Pennsylvania compared to West Virginia. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Pennsylvania to be about 60% more than what you’ll find in West Virginia.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 33% more in Pennsylvania compared to West Virginia. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Moving to Pennsylvania will cost you 10% more than living in West Virginia, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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Pennsylvania has a lower unemployment rate than West Virginia by about 19%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Pennsylvania pay about 6% more in sales tax than those in West Virginia, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 53% lower than in West Virginia. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Pennsylvania vs. West Virginia
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 Pennsylvania differs from West Virginia in these areas.
|
Pennsylvania |
West Virginia |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
1,782,959 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
83ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
21ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
33″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
17.47 |
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If you’re relocating from West Virginia to Pennsylvania, you’ll notice that Pennsylvania has about 627% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both West Virginia and Pennsylvania voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Pennsylvania average 83°F, almost the same as 83°F in West Virginia.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
In Pennsylvania, winter lows are about 19°F, while West Virginia averages 21°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
In Pennsylvania, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 45 inches you’ve been used to in West Virginia.
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 Pennsylvania, you’ll get about 38 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, West Virginia usually sees around 33 inches annually.
With snowfall levels being similar in both states, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
-
Pennsylvania and West Virginia both have similar crime rates (17.47).
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 West Virginia vs. Pennsylvania
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Pennsylvania stacks up against West Virginia:
| Pros of living in West Virginia |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant outdoor activities |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| 4 distinct seasons of weather |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Immense natural beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Relaxed small cities and towns |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in West Virginia vs. Pennsylvania
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from West Virginia to Pennsylvania, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in West Virginia |
Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
| Dismal economy |
Harsh winter weather |
| High rates of crime |
Bad driving conditions |
| High rates of drug abuse |
Nuclear power plants |
| Shrinking population |
Unpredictable weather |
| Lack of diversity |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your West Virginia to Pennsylvania 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.
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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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Pennsylvania moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Pennsylvania does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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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 Pennsylvania right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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.
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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 Pennsylvania
Get ready to discover Pennsylvania. Check out these must-visit places 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 West Virginia to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from West Virginia to Pennsylvania?
What are the benefits of moving from West Virginia to Pennsylvania?
More and more folks are relocating from West Virginia to Pennsylvania to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in West Virginia or Pennsylvania?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is much 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 Pennsylvania?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Pennsylvania, aim for an income of around $56,150 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,452 if you’re flying solo, or $5,603 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
West Virginia moving services
Popular West Virginia routes
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When planning a move from West Virginia to Pennsylvania, professional movers typically run between
$1,605 and $4,743, a moving container averages about
$1,511, and a rental truck is around
$512.
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