Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia?

6 Best PA to VA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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PA to VA Moving Specialists

Moving from Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, to Virginia, the Old Dominion, promises an exciting journey filled with new opportunities and experiences. Leaving behind Pennsylvania's rich history and embracing Virginia's diverse landscapes, from breathtaking mountains to gorgeous beaches, marks a significant life change. To ensure this transition is as smooth as possible, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, our unbiased ranking algorithm helps you find the best movers for your long-distance adventure, taking the guesswork out of your big move.

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

6 Best Pennsylvania to Virginia Movers

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

#1
Pittsburgh Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,264+ data points

Pittsburgh, PA
Local move in Pittsburgh, Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh, Residential move See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in pittsburgh 2022 pittsburgh moving image
#2
ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA
Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3260258 Verify

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

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#3
A
Exceptional

based on 925+ data points

Hopewell, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 1293943 Verify

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...Read More >>

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#4
Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 755+ data points

Harrisburg, PA
Local & long-distance moving, Commercial moving, Labor-only moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 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 >>

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#5
EverSafe Moving Co. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,941+ data points

Philadelphia, PA
Local Movers, Long-distance Movers, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 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 >>

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#6
Best US Moving Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 580+ data points

Blandon, PA
Long Distance Moving, City Moving, Military Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3359524 Verify

About Best US Moving Inc

Best US Moving Inc, founded in 2019 and headquartered in Blandon, PA, is a relatively new but rapidly growing interstate moving company. Tho...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia

Moving between states is a significant decision that involves weighing various factors to find your best fit. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Pennsylvania to Virginia relocation , underlining the positives and negatives through mirrored charts. Whether it's the climate, cost of living, or community vibe, understanding these differences can guide your transition smoothly.

CONs
PROs
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Higher taxes
  • Colder winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less historical sites
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Lower taxes
  • Milder winters
  • More cultural diversity
  • Lower cost of living
  • More historical sites
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Less historic depth
  • More urban
  • Less sports-centric
  • Narrower job market
  • Fewer top-tier schools
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Rich history
  • Diverse landscapes
  • Strong sports culture
  • Robust job market
  • Excellent educational institutions

While Pennsylvania boasts a rich history with cities like Philadelphia, home to the Liberty Bell and Philadelphia Museum of Art, Virginia counters with its own historical tapestry evident in Colonial Williamsburg and the numerous Civil War sites. Virginia's milder winters are a reprieve for those weary of Pennsylvania's chilly snowfalls, offering a more temperate climate conducive to outdoor activities year-round. Living in Virginia might mean enjoying a day out at the Colonial Williamsburg or exploring the natural beauty of Shenandoah River State Park, contrasting the urban sprawl with green spaces and historical depth. The shift from Pennsylvania's vibrant sports culture to Virginia's diverse cultural scene allows for new experiences, from dining at renowned restaurants like Leesburg Public House in Virginia to embracing the beauty of its coastal cities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia

When considering a move, food is an essential aspect of local culture and gives a sense of what life is in a new area. Therefore, we've prepared this comparison to help you grasp the different culinary landscapes you'll encounter. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pennsylvania & Virginia, aiming to give you better insights into the food scene of your potential new home.

PennsylvaniaVirginia

Most iconic local food item

Philly CheesesteakHam

Most popular meat dish

Pork and SauerkrautBBQ

Most popular street food item

PretzelsFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Mushroom SoupAvocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Zahav
  • Vesper Teen
  • Primanti Bros.
  • The Shack
  • Le Diplomate Bistro
  • Mama J's Kitchen

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

88

Vegan Friendly

78

In Pennsylvania, especially in Philadelphia, the Philly Cheesesteak is not just a food item; it's an icon. You can find this delicacy in many versions across the state, with some of the best spots located in its birthplace, Philadelphia. Notable mention goes to the street food scene, with soft pretzels being a go-to snack for many locals. On the other hand, Virginia boasts a rich tradition of BBQ dishes, with pulled pork and brisket leading the charge. Its food scene is markedly influenced by its agricultural richness, offering a variety of farm-to-table experiences. Health and fitness conscientiousness are slightly higher in Virginia, making it a slightly more vegan-friendly setting than Pennsylvania. Virginia's abundance of food trucks, especially in bustling urban areas like Richmond and Alexandria, offers a diverse culinary adventure from street tacos to gourmet sandwiches.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia

Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, especially when considering a move between states. Understanding the differences in housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle between Pennsylvania and Virginia is essential for making an informed decision. This comparison serves as a guide to what you can expect in each state.

While the median home price in Virginia is significantly higher than in Pennsylvania, this reflects the vibrant urban lifestyle and modern amenities frequently highlighted in Virginia's real estate listings. The architecture in both states shares a Colonial influence, yet Virginia homes often boast Craftsman styles with a focus on energy efficiency. Pennsylvania offers more spacious backyards and an appreciation for historic charm. Both states present an evenly matched bikeability score, showcasing their efforts towards a bike-friendly environment. The decision between Pennsylvania's rustic charm against Virginia's modern and urban appeal depends on your personal lifestyle preferences and financial considerations.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia

When planning a move from Pennsylvania to Virginia, understanding the weather variations is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights key climate differences to prepare you for your new environment. Weather comparison between Pennsylvania and Virginia emphasizes the importance of preparing for the shift in climate conditions.

Summer icon
83°F / 62°F

Pennsylvania

87°F / 66°F

Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 21°F

Pennsylvania

47°F / 29°F

Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Pennsylvania

44

Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
38

Pennsylvania

25

Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Despite some similarities, the climates of Pennsylvania and Virginia have distinct differences. Virginia generally enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters compared to Pennsylvania, making it an appealing destination for those seeking less harsh winter conditions. However, the slightly higher humidity and UV index in Virginia mean newcomers should prepare for warmer, more humid summers. Additionally, while both states experience their share of natural disasters, Virginia's coastal location makes it more susceptible to hurricanes. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more comfortably to your new home in Virginia.

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

When relocating, understanding the financial landscape of your new environment is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities between Pennsylvania and Virginia, aiding you in making an informed decision about your move.

While both states offer unique economic opportunities, Virginia's average household income is notably higher, indicative of its more affluent status. However, this comes with a higher cost of living index and state income tax, potentially offsetting the financial benefits for some. The technology, government, and defense sectors drive Virginia's economy, offering a range of career opportunities. On the other hand, Pennsylvania's diverse industries, including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing, provide a stable economic environment with a more reasonable cost of living, though with lower average household incomes. Your financial planning should take into account these differences to maximize your lifestyle and opportunities in your new state.

Political & Religious Comparison between Pennsylvania and Virginia

Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia can bring changes in the community you'll interact with. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents between Pennsylvania & Virginia, helping you understand the local dynamics you're moving into.

PennsylvaniaVirginia

Political Make-up

Moderately DemocraticModerately Democratic to Toss-Up

Local Politics

Urban areas lean Democratic, rural areas lean RepublicanUrban and suburban areas lean Democratic, rural areas lean Republican

Religion

Christianity predominant, with significant Jewish, Muslim, and other faithsChristianity predominant, with growing numbers of Hindu, Muslim, and other faiths

While both Pennsylvania and Virginia have a moderately Democratic leaning at the state level, you'll find their local politics reflect a common urban-rural divide, where urban and suburban areas tend to support Democratic candidates and rural areas favor Republicans. Pennsylvania's religious landscape is predominantly Christian, similar to Virginia, but Virginia is experiencing a faster growth in religious diversity, including Hinduism and Islam, which contributes to its rich multicultural tapestry. Exploring these dynamics can help you adapt and connect with your new community more effectively.

Education Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia

Moving can be a transformative experience, especially when it involves transitioning between states with diverse educational landscapes. To help you navigate this transition, we provide a comparison to better understand what the comparisons are between school options from Pennsylvania to Virginia. This overview aims to highlight differences and similarities that could influence your decision on where to plant new roots, particularly if education is a top priority for your family.

PennsylvaniaVirginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Penn State University
University of Pennsylvania
Temple University
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
William & Mary

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Marshall Elementary School (Pittsburgh)
Bradford Heights Elementary School (Downingtown)
Whitemarsh Elementary (Lafayette Hill)
Arlington Science Focus School (Arlington)
Stenwood Elementary School (Vienna)
Lucketts Elementary School (Leesburg)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia)
Haverford Middle School (Havertown)
Charles F. Patton Middle School (Kennett Square)
Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Frost Middle School (Fairfax)
Henley Middle School (Charlottesville)

Top 3 High School Schools

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia)
Conestoga Senior High School (Berwyn)
Central High School (Philadelphia)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High School (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)

Top 3 private high schools

The Haverford School (Haverford)
Germantown Friends School (Philadelphia)
The Baldwin School (Bryn Mawr)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Norfolk Academy (Norfolk)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Shipley School (Bryn Mawr)
Friends' Central School (Wynnewood)
The Agnes Irwin School (Rosemont)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Flint Hill School (Oakton)
Madeira School (McLean)

Top 3 School Districts

Tredyffrin-Easttown School District
Radnor Township School District
Lower Merion School District
Falls Church City Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools

Among the standout institutions, Julia R. Masterman Secondary School in Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Virginia are frequently recognized for their exceptional academic standards. These schools reflect the broader educational quality available in their respective states, showcasing strong performances in STEM, humanities, and extracurricular activities. Similarly, the university affiliations of Pennsylvania and Virginia, featuring prestigious institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Virginia, respectively, offer robust pathways for high school graduates seeking advanced education within their state. Whether opting for public or private education, both states present compelling opportunities tailored to diverse learner needs and aspirations.

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