Best Washington DC to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Washington DC to Lancaster and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,723 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Washington DC to Lancaster moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Lancaster. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Washington DC to Lancaster Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Mic's Moving | 9.60 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.45 | 9.39 | Active |
4 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.07 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.76 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Washington DC to Lancaster?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,723 miles from Washington DC, DC to Lancaster, CA will cost on average $4,097 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Lancaster move is roughly $9,905. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,746 | 300 ft³ | $9.15 |
1 Bedroom | $4,097 | 450 ft³ | $9.10 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,791 | 750 ft³ | $9.05 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,905 | 1100 ft³ | $9.00 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,327 | 1600 ft³ | $8.95 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,027 | 1800 ft³ | $8.90 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lancaster to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Lancaster Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
Registered Drivers | 21 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |

Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |

Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |

Speedwell Transportation Inc.
860 W. Avenue L8
Lancaster, CA, 93534
About Speedwell Transportation Inc.
Speedwell Transportation Inc. is a team of professional movers in Santa Clarita, CA with over 60 years of experience. The team...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1861478 / 673344 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |

Antelope Valley Van and Storage
602 E Ave R
Palmdale, CA, 93550
About Antelope Valley Van and Storage
Instead of memories of stress, you’ll remember moving day as a memorable experience with Antelope Valley Van and Storage, a moving...
Services
- Local Moves
- Intrastate Moves
- Interstate Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 34380 / 133696 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 13,629 (2024) |

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when transitioning to a city unfamiliar to you. To ease this transition, we offer a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Lancaster, CA. By comparing the popular neighborhoods in Washington DC with their closest counterparts in Lancaster, we hope to help you familiarize yourself with your new city, using your current city as a helpful baseline.
Washington DC | Lancaster | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Georgetown | West Lancaster | Historic charm, vibrant shopping district |
Capitol Hill | Antelope Acres | Community-oriented, spacious homes |
Dupont Circle | Quartz Hill | Artsy vibe, local coffee shops |
Shaw | Rancho Vista | Trendy eateries, young professionals |
Logan Circle | Desert View Highlands | Circular layout, historic homes |
Adams Morgan | Lake Los Angeles | Diverse cuisine, nightlife |
Columbia Heights | Palmdale | Family-friendly, urban-suburban mix |
Foggy Bottom | Leona Valley | Near nature, peaceful |
Navy Yard | Rosamond | Growing, near water activities |
Bloomingdale | Westside Lancaster | Quaint, community parks |
In comparing these neighborhoods, it's easy to see how each city offers unique yet somehow familiar settings for their residents. For instance, if you're drawn to the historic charm and bustling streets of Georgetown, you might find West Lancaster appealing with its own vibrant shopping districts and a touch of historic ambiance. Meanwhile, Dupont Circle's artsy vibe and abundance of local coffee shops find a mirror in Quartz Hill, where local art and cozy cafés abound. For those who appreciate the trendy atmosphere and the buzz of young professionals similar to Shaw, Rancho Vista in Lancaster offers a lively dining scene and a community of forward-thinking individuals. It's these nuanced similarities that make the transition from Washington DC to Lancaster not just a change of scenery, but a continuation of the lifestyle you've grown to love.

Things to Do in Lancaster
- Visit the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve
- Enjoy a show at Lancaster Performing Arts Center
- Explore Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Stroll around The BLVD
- Hike in Antelope Valley
- Try local brews at Bravery Brewing
- Watch a JetHawks baseball game
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Lancaster
Moving between cities can be daunting, but it's also an opportunity to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks. In an effort to offer an honest reflection of what this transition entails, we delve into a detailed comparison that highlights the cons of living in Washington DC, DC versus the pros of moving to Lancaster, CA. Conversely, we also consider the pros of staying in Washington DC, DC against the cons of relocating to Lancaster, CA. This guide aims to provide a balanced perspective to help you make an informed decision.
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Humid summers
- Dense population
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Dry, mild climate
- More open space
- Less cultural venues
- Car-dependent
- Fewer job options
- Fewer landmarks
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Public transport options
- Plentiful job opportunities
- Historic landmarks
The move from Washington DC to Lancaster presents a significant shift in lifestyle. In Lancaster, the allure of a more comfortable cost of living and relaxed pace of life contrasts sharply with DC's high-paced, culturally rich environment. While DC boasts an array of museums like the Smithsonian, diverse cuisine, and historical landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Lancaster offers a quieter, more sprawling landscape. Here, you can enjoy the natural beauty of places like the Saddleback Butte State Park, and while the cultural scene might not be as vibrant, the local Lancaster Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of performances. This move, therefore, might appeal more to those seeking a serene lifestyle over the hustle and bustle of city life, albeit with some trade-offs in cultural and entertainment options.
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Food Guide
Understanding that food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area, this comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Lancaster ensures you can be better informed about the food scene in the place you're moving to.
- Ben's Chili Bowl
- Old Ebbitt Grill
- Zaytinya
- The Lemon Leaf Cafe
- Kinetic Brewing Company
- Black Angus Steakhouse
When moving to Lancaster, expect a significant shift in the food scene compared to Washington DC. Here, the local cuisine leans more towards traditional American comfort foods with a notable lean on meat dishes like the iconic Tri-tip steak found at several establishments around the city. However, Lancaster has been growing its repertoire of healthier and vegan options, with places like The Lemon Leaf Cafe offering wonderfully fresh quinoa salads. The city doesn't boast as strong a food truck or vegan scene as Washington DC, but its local eateries like Kinetic Brewing Company and Black Angus Steakhouse provide a unique and welcoming dining atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates what Lancaster is all about.
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a critical role in making a place feel like home and choosing the right eatery can turn a meal into a memory. For those moving from Washington DC to Lancaster, this restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by drawing parallels between your old and new favorite spots . Whether you're after a high-end experience, casual dining, or something unique and affordable, our guide is designed to help you find your next go-to restaurant.
Washington DC | Lancaster | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Le Diplomate | The Lemon Leaf Cafe | European flair with a cozy atmosphere. |
Rasika | Spice Elephant | Authentic and innovative Indian cuisine. |
Ben’s Chili Bowl | Crazy Otto’s Diner | Iconic diner experience with hearty American classics. |
Zaytinya | Zamora’s Restaurant | Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a fresh twist. |
Busboys and Poets | Giannini Bistro & Grill | A blend of American cuisine with a touch of artistic flair. |
Fiola Mare | LU&PE Mexican Restaurant | Offers an upscale dining experience with exquisite seafood dishes. |
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Black Angus Steakhouse | For a premium steak and seafood selection. |
2 Amys | Rustico Ristorante | Authentic Neapolitan pizzas and Italian cuisine. |
Old Ebbitt Grill | Broken Bit Steakhouse | A touch of American tradition with historic vibes. |
Central Michel Richard | Marie Callender's | Comfort food with an iconic offering of pies. |
When blending the culinary landscapes of two cities, it's fascinating to see how local flavors and dining experiences can align. For example, if you adored Le Diplomate in Washington DC for its impeccable French bistro ambiance and cuisine, you'll find a similar vibe at The Lemon Leaf Cafe in Lancaster, with its European flair and cozy dining experience. Equally, fans of Rasika's innovative Indian dishes will feel at home at Spice Elephant, where the Indian culinary traditions meet creative twists. Such comparisons not only help newcomers in Lancaster discover the richness of their new local dining scene but also reconnect with the familiar tastes and atmospheres they cherished back in Washington DC.

Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate features like housing costs, style, and lifestyle between your current and future cities is crucial. This comparison between Washington DC and Lancaster highlights the key differences and similarities, helping you make an informed decision.
While Washington DC boasts a higher urban lifestyle rating with an emphasis on historical architecture and proximity to metro stations, Lancaster offers a more suburban feel with modern homes and spacious living spaces at a significantly lower cost. The difference in walkability and bikeability between the two cities reflects their distinct lifestyles; Washington DC's urban environment supports a more active, pedestrian-friendly lifestyle, whereas Lancaster's design is more car-dependent. This contrast extends to their real estate markets, where the median home prices and rent reflect the premium placed on Washington DC's dense, amenity-rich urban environment versus Lancaster's more affordable, expansive layouts catering to those seeking space and natural views.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lancaster, CA
1. Quartz Hill : You’ll find large yards and pet-friendly parks, making it easy for your furry friends to enjoy the outdoors.
2. West Lancaster : With numerous walking trails and pet-friendly amenities, you and your pets will have plenty of space to explore together.
3. East Lancaster : Known for its welcoming community and pet-friendly rental options, you’ll feel right at home with your pets here.
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Weather Considerations
If you're contemplating a move, understanding the weather comparison between Washington DC and Lancaster, CA is crucial. This will prepare you for the climate differences and help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from the humid subtropical climate of Washington DC to the arid conditions in Lancaster, you'll notice a significant change in both temperature and humidity. Lancaster boasts more sunshine days and significantly less rainfall than Washington DC, aligning with its desert environment. This means lighter, more breathable clothing, and perhaps a greater emphasis on sun protection due to higher UV exposure. Also, prepare for different natural disaster preparedness, with a shift from hurricanes and winter storms to earthquakes and wildfires.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Lancaster
When considering a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape of your new location compares to your current one. This comparison between Washington DC and Lancaster, CA will help illuminate these differences.
Moving from Washington DC to Lancaster, you will find stark contrasts, especially in the average household income and cost of living. While DC boasts a higher average income, it comes with a significantly higher cost of living. State income taxes in California have a wider range, potentially impacting your take-home pay differently based on your income bracket. Interestingly, the top industries shift from government and professional services in DC to aerospace and manufacturing in Lancaster. This could mean new job opportunities or the need for a career pivot. Lancaster's more moderate affluence and higher poverty rate compared to DC highlight the socioeconomic shifts you may encounter.
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot providing insights into the politics between Washington DC & Lancaster, in addition to the religious landscape of both cities. It aims to help you understand the community you are moving into or leaving behind.
When comparing Washington DC and Lancaster, one notable difference is the political landscape. While Washington DC is known for its overwhelming Democratic inclination, largely due to its role in national politics and government employee demographics, Lancaster presents a more balanced political environment, tilting slightly towards Republican values. This contrast is reflective of the broader differences between urban and suburban or rural areas. The local politics in Lancaster are more focused on community and municipal issues, whereas in Washington DC, even local politics can have a national or international impact. Another important aspect to consider is the religious makeup of both areas. While both cities enjoy a diversity of religious beliefs and practices, Washington DC tends to have a more varied religious landscape, reflective of its highly diverse population. Lancaster, while also diverse, has a larger Christian community. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate more smoothly to your new home.
Washington DC vs. Lancaster Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be a huge change, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Washington DC & Lancaster, CA . Whether you're wondering about traffic congestion, public transportation, or if you can get by without a car, we've got you covered.
While both Washington DC and Lancaster, CA, have average commute times hovering around the 30-minute mark, the experience in each city can be drastically different. In Washington DC, the high availability of public transit options, scoring 9 out of 10, means you can easily get by without a car. In contrast, Lancaster scores a mere 2 out of 10 in public transit availability, making a car almost essential for daily commutes. Additionally, traffic congestion in DC is more intense compared to Lancaster, reflecting the denser urban environment and higher volume of commuters in the capital.



Additional Resources
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