Best Washington DC to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Washington DC to Lancaster Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Ap Pro Moving Llc9.459.39Active
4Speedwell Transportation Inc.8.077.08Authorized For HHG
5Antelope Valley Van and Storage7.767.02Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,746300 ft³$9.15
1 Bedroom$4,097450 ft³$9.10
2 Bedrooms$6,791750 ft³$9.05
3 Bedrooms$9,9051100 ft³$9.00
4 Bedrooms$14,3271600 ft³$8.95
5+ Bedrooms$16,0271800 ft³$8.90
*Please note: These DC to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed DC to CA mover.
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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 Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,057+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 3,605+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 343+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Speedwell Transportation Inc. Logo

Speedwell Transportation Inc.

Good8.07/10
based on 81+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1861478 / 673344

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Antelope Valley Van and Storage Logo

Antelope Valley Van and Storage

Good7.76/10
based on 143+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

34380 / 133696

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved13,629 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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 DCLancasterHow They're Similar
GeorgetownWest LancasterHistoric charm, vibrant shopping district
Capitol HillAntelope AcresCommunity-oriented, spacious homes
Dupont CircleQuartz HillArtsy vibe, local coffee shops
ShawRancho VistaTrendy eateries, young professionals
Logan CircleDesert View HighlandsCircular layout, historic homes
Adams MorganLake Los AngelesDiverse cuisine, nightlife
Columbia HeightsPalmdaleFamily-friendly, urban-suburban mix
Foggy BottomLeona ValleyNear nature, peaceful
Navy YardRosamondGrowing, near water activities
BloomingdaleWestside LancasterQuaint, 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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Humid summers
  • Dense population
Lancaster, CA iconLancaster, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Dry, mild climate
  • More open space
Lancaster, CA iconLancaster, CA
  • Less cultural venues
  • Car-dependent
  • Fewer job options
  • Fewer landmarks
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • 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.

Washington DC
Lancaster
Most iconic local food item
Half-smoke
BLVD Burger
Most popular meat dish
Mumbo sauce with wings
Tri-tip steak
Most popular street food item
Jumbo slice pizza
Street Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Plant-based burgers
Quinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Old Ebbitt Grill
  • Zaytinya
  • The Lemon Leaf Cafe
  • Kinetic Brewing Company
  • Black Angus Steakhouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
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Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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Foodie Scene (out of 10)
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Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
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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 DCLancasterWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateThe Lemon Leaf CafeEuropean flair with a cozy atmosphere.
RasikaSpice ElephantAuthentic and innovative Indian cuisine.
Ben’s Chili BowlCrazy Otto’s DinerIconic diner experience with hearty American classics.
ZaytinyaZamora’s RestaurantMediterranean-inspired dishes with a fresh twist.
Busboys and PoetsGiannini Bistro & GrillA blend of American cuisine with a touch of artistic flair.
Fiola MareLU&PE Mexican RestaurantOffers an upscale dining experience with exquisite seafood dishes.
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabBlack Angus SteakhouseFor a premium steak and seafood selection.
2 AmysRustico RistoranteAuthentic Neapolitan pizzas and Italian cuisine.
Old Ebbitt GrillBroken Bit SteakhouseA touch of American tradition with historic vibes.
Central Michel RichardMarie Callender'sComfort 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.

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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.

Washington DC
Lancaster
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian, Federal
Ranch, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Hardwood floors, proximity to metro
Spacious backyards, mountain views

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.

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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.

Washington DC
Lancaster
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Winter storms
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good to Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 71°F
97°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 28°F
58°F / 33°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

40.8"
7.9"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

15.5"
0"


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.

Washington DC
Lancaster
Avg. Household Income
$90,088
$64,242
Cost of Living Index
140.1
136.4
State Income Tax
4.0% to 8.95%
1.0% to 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax
0.55%
0.77%
Avg. Sales Tax
6%
9.5%
Top 3 Industries
Government, Professional Services, Education
Aerospace, Manufacturing, Entertainment
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
High
Moderate

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.

Washington DC
Lancaster
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Mixed, with a lean towards Republican
Local Politics
Highly active, national focus
Community-centric, local focus
Religion
Diverse religious communities
Christian majority, with diverse smaller communities

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.

Washington DC
Lancaster
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
29.8
30.2
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
2 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

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.

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