Best Pennsylvania to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the Keystone State to the Evergreen State is more than a change of scenery; it's an adventure into a new way of life. You're leaving behind the historical charm and hearty seasons of Pennsylvania for Washington's lush landscapes and innovative spirit. Understanding the importance of your journey, we emphasize the necessity of trusting your move to professional movers who are not only reliable but come highly recommended for such long-distance transitions.
Best Pennsylvania to Washington Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.51 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC | 9.50 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Stress-Less Moving & Storage Company LLC | 9.47 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| First Due Movers | 9.26 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Pennsylvania guide.
6 Best PA to WA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
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 >>
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
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 >>
Services
- Local & long-distance moving
- Commercial moving
- Labor-only moving
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 >>
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential & Commercial Relocation
- Packing & Crating
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington
Moving across states isn't just about changing addresses; it's a substantial lifestyle shift. This guide draws an honest reflection weighing the good and bad attributes of relocating from Pennsylvania to Washington . Through detailed comparison charts, discover the pros and cons of leaving Pennsylvania for Washington and vice versa, setting realistic expectations for your big move.
Pennsylvania- Higher taxes
- Colder winters
- Less tech jobs
- Lower minimum wage
Washington- No income tax
- Milder climate
- Tech hub
- Higher minimum wage
Washington- Less history
- More rainfall
- Higher housing costs
- Far from East Coast
Pennsylvania- Historic sights
- Diverse seasons
- Lower cost of living
- Proximity to NY
While the transition from Pennsylvania to Washington involves grappling with higher living and housing costs, the advantages like Washington's substantial tech industry boom lead to promising career opportunities in companies like Microsoft and Amazon. You'll miss Pennsylvania's historic charm, embodied in landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Gettysburg, but the Pacific Northwest greets you with its outdoor splendor—from the tranquil shores of Lake Union to hiking in Mount Rainier National Park. Not to mention, Seattle's food scene, with places like Pike Place Fish Market and Canlis, offers a diversity that food lovers will relish. Lastly, the lack of a state income tax in Washington presents a financial upside that benefits most residents in the long run.
Pennsylvania vs. Washington Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pennsylvania & Washington, highlighting how food is a vital aspect of local culture and living experience. Understanding the distinctions in culinary scenes will prepare you better for your move.
| Pennsylvania | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Philly Cheesesteak | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork and Sauerkraut | Geoduck Clam |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Mushroom Cheesesteak | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Pennsylvania, especially Philadelphia, the Philly Cheesesteak reigns supreme as the iconic local food item — a must-try for visitors. For those moving to Washington, the culinary scene shifts towards seafood, with salmon being a staple and the geoduck clam offering a unique local taste that might be new to you. Washington's food scene is distinguished by its sustainability and seafood cuisine, with neighborhoods like Pike Place Market in Seattle serving as culinary hubs. Both states have vibrant food scenes, but Washington stands out for its health-conscious options and a stronger emphasis on vegan foods, such as the popular tempeh Reuben found in various local eateries.
Ready to start your move?
Pennsylvania vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial consideration when planning a move. Understanding how Pennsylvania and Washington differ in terms of housing cost, architectural style, walkability, and overall urban lifestyle can significantly impact your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Pennsylvania | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Farmhouse | Craftsman, Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, Large yards | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to nature |
The stark contrast in the median home prices and rent between Pennsylvania and Washington reflects the broader cost of living and economic opportunities in each state. Pennsylvania's colonial and farmhouse-style homes often appeal to those seeking historic charm and larger plots of land. On the other hand, Washington's preference for Craftsman and contemporary architecture mirrors its modern, eco-conscious ethos, coupled with a high priority on walkability and bikeability. The urban lifestyle score emphasizes Washington's vibrancy, bolstered by its cities' proximity to natural landscapes, making it an attractive option for those who seek a blend of urban living with easy access to outdoor activities.
Pennsylvania vs. Washington Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Pennsylvania to Washington, comparing the weather between these states can help set realistic expectations for your new environment. From average temperatures to natural disasters , understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for the change.
Pennsylvania
Washington
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pennsylvania
Washington
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pennsylvania
Washington
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pennsylvania
Washington
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Pennsylvania | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington, you'll notice milder summers and winters in Washington, thanks to its coastal climate. While Pennsylvania enjoys more sunny days, Washington's higher humidity level contributes to a lush, green environment but can amplify mold and tree pollen allergies. Furthermore, you'll transition from a region where tornadoes and floods are more common to an area with a greater risk of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Air quality is generally better in Washington, a benefit for those sensitive to pollution. This comparison highlights that preparation for different weather patterns and natural disaster risks is key to a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington
When considering a move, grasping the financial differences between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the economic aspects of transitioning from Pennsylvania to Washington. Understanding the cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities is essential, especially when moving between states as different as Pennsylvania and Washington.
| Comparison | Pennsylvania | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,798 | $91,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.7 | 104.1 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.50 | 0.93 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.34 | 9.17 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington introduces a significant shift in economic landscape. While Washington boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a higher cost of living index, indicating that your earnings might not stretch as far as expected. The absence of state income tax in Washington may seem attractive, but higher sales and property taxes could offset this benefit. Moreover, the contrast in the dominant industries between the two states highlights the opportunities for career movement or change, particularly for those in technology and aerospace sectors. Such economic factors are crucial to consider for a smooth transition and to set realistic expectations for your new life in Washington.
Pennsylvania vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the politics between Pennsylvania & Washington, as well as the religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the societal landscape you’re moving into.
| Pennsylvania | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Swing State with a mix of Democratic and Republican leanings | Leans Democratic, especially in urban areas |
| Local Politics | Localized to township and county influences | Strong city-based political activism |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with a diverse mix of other religions | Less religious overall, with Christianity being major, but has a significant "nones" demographic |
In detail, when moving from Pennsylvania to Washington, you'll find yourself transitioning from an environment where politics can swing either way to one where Democratic inclinations are more pronounced, especially in urban centers like Seattle. This could mean different local policies, public opinion climates, and social issues at the forefront. Local politics in Washington may lean more towards city-based initiatives and activism, reflecting the state's progressive stance on various issues. Religion-wise, while Pennsylvania has a robust religious community with Christianity at the forefront, Washington is known for a larger proportion of individuals identifying as non-religious or part of the "nones" demographic, alongside a significant Christian community. This shift could influence the cultural and community activities available to you, as well as the general societal atmosphere.
Education Guide When Moving from Pennsylvania to Washington
When considering a move from Pennsylvania to Washington, it's crucial to compare educational opportunities for your child. This comparison will enable you to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Pennsylvania and Washington . By doing so, you're taking an important step towards choosing the best educational path for your family's needs.
| Pennsylvania | Washington |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania State University Temple UniversityUniversity of Washington Washington State University Western Washington University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Albert M. Greenfield School (Philadelphia) Ad Prima Charter School (Philadelphia) Penn Wynne School (Wynnewood)Cascade K-8 Community School (Shoreline) Bertschi School (Seattle) The Bush School (Seattle) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia) Radnor Middle School (Radnor) Charles F. Patton Middle School (Kennett Square)Lakeside Middle School (Seattle) Seattle Academy (Seattle) Islander Middle School (Mercer Island) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia) Conestoga High School (Berwyn) Lower Merion High School (Ardmore)Bellevue High School (Bellevue) International School (Bellevue) Redmond High School (Redmond) | |
Top 3 private high schools The Baldwin School (Bryn Mawr) The Episcopal Academy (Newtown Square) Mercersburg Academy (Mercersburg)The Overlake School (Redmond) Lakeside School (Seattle) The Bush School (Seattle) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Agnes Irwin School (Rosemont) The Shipley School (Bryn Mawr) Germantown Friends School (Philadelphia)The Bear Creek School (Redmond) Lakeside School (Seattle) The Bush School (Seattle) | |
Top 3 School Districts Radnor Township School District Tredyffrin-Easttown School District Lower Merion School DistrictMercer Island School District Bellevue School District Lake Washington School District | |
Choosing the right school for your child requires thoughtful consideration. Pennsylvania offers a wealth of historic and prestigious educational institutions like the Julia R. Masterman Secondary School in Philadelphia, renowned for its rigorous academic program, and the University of Pennsylvania, a leading Ivy League institution. Similarly, Washington provides excellent opportunities with top-ranked schools and universities, including the University of Washington and the innovative, holistic educational approaches found at The Overlake School in Redmond and Bellevue High School. Both states boast schools that are highly regarded nationally, making them excellent choices for families prioritizing education in their relocation decision. Furthermore, exploring the offerings of the top private K-12 schools, such as The Shipley School in Bryn Mawr, PA, and The Bush School in Seattle, WA, can provide insights into the unique educational philosophies and environments available.
Popular Pennsylvania to Washington Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
