Moving from Pennsylvania to California?

6 Best PA to CA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

PA to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from the Keystone State to the Golden State is more than a relocation; it's an exciting adventure and a significant change in your life. You're leaving behind Pennsylvania's rich historical tapestry and hearty seasons for California's sun-soaked beaches, bustling cities, and innovative spirit. Given the vast distance and logistical complexities of such a move, it's crucial to entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring we match you with the best in the business for a smooth transition.

Pennsylvania iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Pennsylvania guide.

6 Best Pennsylvania to California Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

Location DotEl Sobrante, CA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2597230 Verify

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

top 3 san francisco 2024 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,688+ data points

Location DotSanta Monica, CA
GearResidential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3207734 Verify

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>

top santa ana 2024 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa ana 2023 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa monica 2022 pure movers santa monica image
#3
Pittsburgh Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,264+ data points

Location DotPittsburgh, PA
GearLocal move in Pittsburgh, Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh, Residential move See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3901080 Verify

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...Read More >>

top pittsburgh 2024 pittsburgh moving image
top 10 ranked movers in pittsburgh 2023 pittsburgh moving image
top 10 ranked movers in pittsburgh 2022 pittsburgh moving image
#4
EverSafe Moving Co. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,941+ data points

Location DotPhiladelphia, PA
GearLocal Movers, Long-distance Movers, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2261303 Verify

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>

top 3 philadelphia 2024 eversafe moving co image
top ranked movers in philadelphia 2023 eversafe moving co image
top ranked movers in philadelphia 2022 eversafe moving co image
#5
Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 755+ data points

Location DotHarrisburg, PA
GearLocal & long-distance moving, Commercial moving, Labor-only moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3011826 Verify

About Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC

Keystone Moving & Junk Removal is a BBB-accredited moving company in Mechanicsburg that services Harrisburg, Camp Hill, and all surround...Read More >>

top harrisburg 2024 keystone moving junk removal llc image
top 3 ranked movers in harrisburg 2023 keystone moving junk removal llc image
top ranked movers in harrisburg 2022 keystone moving junk removal llc image
#6
S
Exceptional

based on 699+ data points

Location DotYardley, PA
GearLocal & Long Distance Moving, Residential & Commercial Relocation, Packing & Crating See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/12/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3375156 Verify

About Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC

Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC is a family-owned and operated business that offers various moving and storage solutions in Sou...Read More >>

top 3 allentown 2024 stress less moving storage company llc image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Pennsylvania to California

Moving from one state to another can be a significant life change, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This guide provides a balanced look at relocating from Pennsylvania to California, offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad. The purpose of the upcoming charts is to directly compare the life changes when moving from Pennsylvania to California, ensuring you make an informed decision about this major move.

CONs
PROs
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller tech sector
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Fewer national parks
  • Lower avg. salary
California iconCalifornia
  • Milder winters
  • Larger tech industry
  • More diverse food options
  • More national parks
  • Higher avg. salary
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer historical sites
  • More urbanized
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less affordable housing
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Lower cost of living
  • Rich historical sites
  • Cozy small towns
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More affordable housing

Although the decision to move from Pennsylvania to California presents challenges like the higher cost of living and more urbanized areas, it also opens up opportunities that align with various lifestyles and career paths. California's vibrant food scene, for example, offers an incredible variety of cuisines, from the renowned sushi in Los Angeles to authentic Mexican food in San Diego. Additionally, the tech industry in Silicon Valley is a powerful magnet for professionals looking to advance their careers. For nature lovers, California's vast number of national parks, such as Yosemite and Sequoia, provide endless outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Despite the higher expenses, neighborhoods like the Mission District in San Francisco or Silver Lake in Los Angeles are teeming with creative energy, diversity, and unique restaurants like Tartine Bakery or Guisados, making them worth the investment for many.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to California

When considering a move, food plays a crucial role in experiencing local culture and understanding what life in a new area will be like. In order to make this transition smoother for you, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Pennsylvania & California, highlighting what each has to offer so you can be better informed about the food scene in your new home.

PennsylvaniaCalifornia

Most iconic local food item

Philly Cheesesteak
Fish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Pork Roll
Tri-Tip

Most popular street food item

Pretzel
Street Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan Cheesesteak
Avocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Geno's Steaks
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Cheese Board Pizza
  • The French Laundry
  • Gjelina

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
10

Foodie Scene

8
10

Vegan Friendly

7
10

Both Pennsylvania and California offer unique and vibrant culinary scenes that reflect their diverse cultures and histories. In Pennsylvania, especially in cities like Philadelphia, the cheesesteak reigns supreme, with places like Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks drawing in crowds daily. However, if you're making the move to California, get ready to embrace a health-conscious lifestyle, where options like avocado toast and farm-to-table dining experiences at restaurants like Gjelina in Los Angeles are plentiful. California's emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients is evident in its versatile food scene, ranging from the iconic street tacos found in food trucks lining Venice Beach to the sophisticated dishes served at The French Laundry in Yountville.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Pennsylvania to California

When planning a significant move, delving into the intricacies of real estate is crucial for a smooth transition from Pennsylvania to California. Understanding differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between these states can significantly impact your decision-making process.

While the median home price in California towers over that in Pennsylvania, reflecting the Golden State's higher cost of living, California also tends to offer homes with modern, eco-friendly features which cater to an increasing demand for sustainable living. The diverse architecture found between these states speaks to their unique cultural and historical identities—Pennsylvania with its rich colonial heritage, and California with its modern and Spanish influences. Moreover, California edges out Pennsylvania in terms of bikeability and urban lifestyle, which might appeal to those looking for a more active and outdoorsy way of life. Whether you’re drawn to the spacious yards and historic details of Pennsylvania or the open-floor plans and eco-conscious design of California homes, weighing these factors against personal preferences and priorities is key.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to California

When planning a move from Pennsylvania to California, it's crucial to understand how the weather comparison between these two states will affect your daily life and seasonal planning. This comparison sheds light on key differences and similarities you'll experience, helping you adjust to your new surroundings with ease.

Summer icon
85/62

Pennsylvania

85/60

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37/21

Pennsylvania

60/45

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Pennsylvania

22

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
38

Pennsylvania

190 (in mountains)

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Pennsylvania and California both enjoy warm summers, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s, their winter climates are markedly different. In Pennsylvania, winter temperatures average between 21°F and 37°F, whereas California's winters are milder, with averages between 45°F and 60°F. Moreover, California offers significantly more sunshine throughout the year, with 284 sunny days compared to Pennsylvania's 179. This difference can impact daily life, mood, and outdoor activity levels. The natural disaster risks also shift from thunderstorms and snowstorms in Pennsylvania to earthquakes and wildfires in California, highlighting the importance of preparedness in your new home state.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to California

Moving from one location to another involves a significant adjustment, especially when it comes to your finances. Understanding how the cost of living and income opportunities in Pennsylvania and California compare to what you're accustomed to can help you make a smoother transition. This guide aims to provide a clear comparison to aid in your financial planning for the move.

When moving from Pennsylvania to California, you'll face crucial financial adjustments. California boasts a significantly higher average household income than Pennsylvania, which can be appealing. However, this is counterbalanced by a much higher cost of living, including a stark difference in the sales tax and a variable state income tax that can go up to 13.3%. This adjustment requires careful financial planning, especially considering California's higher level of affluence alongside its notable issues with poverty and homelessness. Additionally, the dominant industries in each state suggest potential career paths or business opportunities that could influence your decision to move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Pennsylvania and California

Moving from Pennsylvania to California offers much more than a change of scenery. It’s about diving into diverse cultures and communities. This comparison provides a quick glance at the politics between Pennsylvania & California , along with a peek into the religious makeup of their residents, equipping you with knowledge for a smooth transition.

PennsylvaniaCalifornia

Political Make-up

Swing StateDemocratic Stronghold

Local Politics

Moderately Conservative in Rural AreasLiberal, especially in Urban Areas

Religion

Christian PredominanceDiverse Religious Landscape

While Pennsylvania often plays a pivotal role in national elections due to its swing state status, California is known for its firm Democratic leanings, particularly evident in its major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. This political disposition influences both local policy and social culture significantly. In terms of religious make-up, Pennsylvania's communities are predominantly Christian, with a strong presence of Catholic and Protestant believers. In contrast, California boasts a much more diverse religious landscape, reflecting its multicultural population. This diversity enriches community life and offers a wide array of cultural experiences, festivals, and houses of worship, accommodating people from various faith backgrounds.

Education Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to California

Moving from Pennsylvania to California opens up a new realm of educational opportunities for your family. Understanding the differences between school options is crucial for making an informed decision. This guide will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Pennsylvania and California , focusing on various educational institutions.

PennsylvaniaCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Pennsylvania
Penn State University
Carnegie Mellon University
University of California
Los Angeles
University of Southern California
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wallace A. Conwell School
Media
Ad Prima Charter School
Philadelphia
Upper Dublin School
Fort Washington
Point Vicente Elementary School
Rancho Palos Verdes
Old Orchard Elementary School
Valencia
La Cañada Elementary School
La Cañada Flintridge

Top 3 Middle Schools

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School
Philadelphia
Radnor Middle School
Wayne
Haverford Middle School
Havertown
Henry E. Huntington Middle School
San Marino
Canyon Charter Elementary School
Santa Monica
Chaparral Middle School
Diamond Bar

Top 3 High Schools

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School
Philadelphia
Conestoga High School
Berwyn
Central High School
Philadelphia
Henry M. Gunn High School
Palo Alto
California Academy of Mathematics and Science
Carson
Troy High School
Fullerton

Top 3 private high schools

The Haverford School
Haverford
Shady Side Academy
Pittsburgh
William Penn Charter School
Philadelphia
Harvard-Westlake School
Los Angeles
The Webb Schools
Claremont
Phillips Academy
Andover (CA Branch)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Moravian Academy
Bethlehem
Friends' Central School
Wynnewood
Germantown Friends School
Philadelphia
The Nueva School
Hillsborough
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
Santa Monica
The Athenian School
Danville

Top 3 School Districts

Tredyffrin-Easttown School District
Wayne
Lower Merion School District
Ardmore
Radnor Township School District
Radnor
San Marino Unified School District
San Marino
Palo Alto Unified School District
Palo Alto
La Cañada Unified School District
La Cañada Flintridge

When comparing educational systems between Pennsylvania and California, it's evident that both states offer exceptional opportunities, but with unique distinctions. California is renowned for its prestigious universities and innovative K-12 schools, especially in areas like Palo Alto and La Cañada Flintridge, which are known for their high academic standards and strong STEM programs. Pennsylvania, on the other hand, prides itself on historical institutions and competitive secondary education, with schools like the Julia R. Masterman Secondary School and the University of Pennsylvania standing out. The choice between Pennsylvania and California could depend on the specific academic needs and preferences of your family, whether it's a focus on tech-driven education or traditional, well-established schools.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Pennsylvania to California Movers Featured Image