Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Richmond to Pittsburgh Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Richmond, VA to the bustling cultural hub of Pittsburgh, PA, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. While leaving behind the River City's storied past and vibrant arts scene may be bittersweet, the Steel City awaits with its renowned museums, sports legacy, and the promise of innovation. Given the transition ahead, it's crucial you entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a smooth sail as you navigate the complexities of this long-distance move.

Virginia iconArrow iconPennsylvania icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Richmond guide.

5 Best Richmond to Pittsburgh 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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

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
#2
Estes SureMove Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,255+ data points

Richmond, VA
Home moving, Employee relocations, Add-ons (such as same-day pickup) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 121018 Verify

About Estes SureMove

The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you, but at th...Read More >>

top 3 richmond 2024 estes suremove image
top 10 ranked movers in blackstone 2023 estes suremove image
top 10 ranked movers in richmond 2022 estes suremove image
#3
M
Exceptional

based on 336+ data points

Pittsburgh, PA
Full-service local Pittsburgh moves, Long distance residential and commercial moves, Loading or unloading your truck or pod See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3295834 Verify

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>

top 3 pittsburgh 2024 meta movers image
top 10 ranked movers in canonsburg 2023 meta movers image
top 10 ranked movers in east liverpool 2022 meta movers image
#4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb

based on 3,899+ data points

Henrico, VA
Local moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2423213 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

With over 30 years’ experience and 350 locations worldwide, Two Men and a Truck is a trusted name in the moving industry. Its Richmond locat...Read More >>

top 10 richmond 2024 two men and a truck image
top 10 ranked movers in richmond 2023 two men and a truck image
top 10 ranked movers in richmond 2022 two men and a truck image
#5
Cavalier Moving Logo
Fabulous

based on 4,080+ data points

Richmond, VA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Local Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3193540 Verify

About Cavalier Moving

Established in Richmond in 2019, Cavalier Moving is not a novice in the moving industry. It’s backed by highly-experienced owners and profes...Read More >>

top 10 richmond 2024 cavalier moving image
top ranked movers in richmond 2023 cavalier moving image
top ranked movers in richmond 2022 cavalier moving image

Relocating from Richmond to Pittsburgh Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide is designed to ease this transition. By comparing local neighborhoods between Richmond, VA & Pittsburgh, PA , we aim to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings, using what you already know as a baseline. Discover which Pittsburgh neighborhoods best match your favorite Richmond locales below.

RichmondPittsburgh
The FanShadyside

Vibrant, historic, with a range of dining options

Church HillSquirrel Hill

Diverse community, rich history, and food scene

Scott's AdditionLawrenceville

Industrial roots with a trendy, artsy vibe

CarytownBloomfield

Eclectic shopping and eateries, known as Little Italy

Shockoe BottomStrip District

Historic market area, nightlife, and riverside views

West EndMount Lebanon

Suburban feel, family-friendly, with strong community

Short PumpSouth Hills

Shopping hub, convenient, with spacious homes

Libbie Mill-MidtownEast Liberty

Revitalized, mixed-use district with innovative spaces

Forest HillHighland Park

Large park spaces, active community vibe

Museum DistrictNorth Shore

Cultural attractions, nearby parks, and entertainment

Finding a neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle is a critical part of making your move feel like you’re coming home. For fans of Richmond's vibrant, historic The Fan district, Pittsburgh's Shadyside offers a similar charm with its bustling avenues, like Walnut Street, known for upscale boutiques and cozy cafes like Coffee Tree Roasters. If the eclectic and diverse atmosphere of Church Hill captured your heart, you’ll appreciate Squirrel Hill in Pittsburgh, which boasts a rich history and a welcoming community, along with a thriving food scene exemplified by the renowned Pamela’s Diner. Meanwhile, lovers of Carytown’s unique shopping experience might find themselves at home in Bloomfield, Pittsburgh’s own Little Italy, celebrated for its array of independent shops and annual Italian festivals. Each Pittsburgh neighborhood carries its own distinctive flair, with parks, restaurants, and cultural spots that invite exploration and make the Steel City feel like home.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Pittsburgh

  • Explore the Heinz History Center
  • Ride the Duquesne Incline
  • Walk through Phipps Conservatory
  • Discover Carnegie Science Center
  • Catch a Pirates game at PNC Park
  • Bike on Three Rivers Heritage Trail

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

Moving from one city to another presents both opportunities and challenges. In the spirit of providing a balanced view, we have carefully compared the pros and cons of relocating from Richmond, VA to Pittsburgh, PA . Through these comparisons, we aim to offer an honest reflection of what this significant change entails, capturing the essence of both cities to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Hotter summers
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer tech jobs
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Larger urban area
  • Cooler summers
  • More diverse culture
  • Booming tech scene
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Lesser historic sites
  • No nearby beaches
  • Colder winters
  • Higher living costs
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Rich historic sites
  • Close to beaches
  • Mild winters
  • Lower living costs

While moving from Richmond, VA, to Pittsburgh, PA, you'll transition from the smaller, historic charm of Richmond with its mild winters and proximity to Virginia beaches to a larger urban setting renowned for its Carnegie Science Center, vibrant tech industry, and rich cultural diversity. You'll find Pittsburgh's neighborhoods, like Lawrenceville, bustling with trendy restaurants, parks, and art galleries. However, prepare for cooler summers and colder winters, and while you'll leave behind Richmond's beaches, you'll gain access to Pittsburgh's Cultural District and its array of theaters and events, creating a unique blend of recreational and cultural opportunities. This contrast underscores a move defined by exploring new landscapes both in the urban environment and in the natural and cultural offerings that distinguish Pittsburgh.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding local culture and the lifestyle in different areas. In this guide, we will conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Richmond & Pittsburgh to help you grasp the culinary scenes of both cities before your move.

RichmondPittsburgh

Most iconic local food item

Virginia HamPierogi

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork BBQPrimanti Bros Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Soft Shell CrabHaluski

Most popular vegan food

Seitan BBQVegan Pierogi

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Mama J's Kitchen
  • Sub Rosa Bakery
  • Lemaire
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • The Whitfield

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

If you're embarking on a culinary adventure in Pittsburgh, you'll find that neighborhoods like the Strip District and Lawrenceville are essential stops for food enthusiasts. Here, you can savor the iconic Primanti Bros sandwich with its unique combination of meat, coleslaw, and fries stuffed between two slices of Italian bread. For a taste of local tradition, Pierogi, particularly the vegan options, have become a staple in Pittsburgh's diverse food scene. Meanwhile, establishments such as Pamela's Diner for breakfast and The Whitfield for an upscale dining experience showcase the city's culinary diversity. Exploring Pittsburgh's food trucks and vegan offerings in various neighborhoods ensures a fulfilling gastronomic journey tailored to your preferences.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

Food plays a vital role in making a new city feel like home. This guide aims to ease your transition from Richmond to Pittsburgh by comparing top restaurants in Richmond to their Pittsburgh counterparts , ensuring you find your new favorite dining spots.

L’OpossumEleven

Upscale dining with a contemporary cuisine twist

Stella’sDianoia's Eatery

Offers a cozy and authentic comfort food experience

Mamma ZuAlla Famiglia

Renowned for its Italian flair and hearty dishes

Joe’s InnPamela’s Diner

Iconic for breakfast and casual eats, with a local twist

The RooseveltThe Whitfield

Captures the essence of American cuisine with a modern touch

RappahannockMorimoto

Known for exquisite seafood with a unique fusion approach

ComfortMeat & Potatoes

Comfort food heaven with a rustic, yet sophisticated vibe

ZZQ Texas Craft BarbequePig Iron Public House

Famous for its smoked meats and crafted brews

Metzger Bar & ButcheryCure

Offers a focused menu of local and seasonal dishes, highlighting meats

8 1/2Piccione Pastry

Delightful spot for Italian desserts and coffee, comforting and quaint

When exploring the culinary scene of Pittsburgh, places like Eleven and Alla Famiglia stand out not only for their exceptional cuisine but also for their ability to create memorable dining experiences similar to those found in Richmond's top spots. For example, transitioning from the Italian staples of Mamma Zu to the authentic allure of Alla Famiglia ensures a seamless culinary journey, maintaining the beloved flavors and ambience you’ve enjoyed back home. Similarly, swapping the hip, barbeque vibes of ZZQ for Pig Iron Public House’s smoked delights and crafted ales means you won't have to forsake your love for quality meats and relaxed dining. Finding familiarity in these nuances is what makes moving cities an adventure rather than a challenge, especially for the food-loving heart.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the real estate markets compare in your current and future cities. This comparison between Richmond, VA, and Pittsburgh, PA highlights key aspects such as cost and lifestyle, shedding light on what to expect in terms of housing.

Both Richmond and Pittsburgh offer attractive attributes for potential residents, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Richmond, with its rich history, boasts Colonial and Victorian homes, often highlighted by their spacious backyards and hardwood floors. Pittsburgh, on the other hand, leans towards Craftsman styles and modern amenities like granite countertops. A key advantage of Pittsburgh is its slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores, and its emphasis on being close to public transit, reflecting a more urban lifestyle compared to Richmond's balance of urban and suburban characteristics. This information can help you weigh your lifestyle preferences and budgetary considerations in making a decision.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Lawrenceville: This neighborhood boasts a vibrant community with easy access to dog parks and pet-friendly restaurants like The Vandal, making it perfect for you and your furry friend.

2. Shadyside: Known for its walkable streets and a welcoming atmosphere for pets, Shadyside offers numerous pet stores such as Petagogy and outdoor areas, ideal for keeping your pet healthy and happy.

3. Squirrel Hill: With its close proximity to Frick Park, Squirrel Hill provides endless trails and green spaces for you and your pet to explore, alongside pet-friendly cafes and community activities.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

When planning a move from Richmond, VA to Pittsburgh, PA, it's crucial to consider how the weather compares between these two cities. Understanding the differences can help you adjust to your new environment more smoothly. Differences in temperature, humidity, and sunshine can significantly affect your daily life and activities.

Summer icon
89/71

Richmond, VA

82/62

Pittsburgh, PA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
48/29

Richmond, VA

35/21

Pittsburgh, PA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Richmond, VA

38

Pittsburgh, PA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
10

Richmond, VA

41

Pittsburgh, PA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities experience all four seasons, Pittsburgh sees more extreme variations, particularly with colder winters and more snowfall, averaging 41 inches annually compared to Richmond's 10 inches. Sunshine is also more plentiful in Richmond, enjoying around 210 sunny days a year, whereas Pittsburgh has about 160. This could affect your daily activities and mood, especially in winter. Despite these differences, both cities have similar levels of annual rainfall and average humidity, with slightly different allergy triggers due to the local flora. Understanding these weather differences is vital for preparing for your move and adapting to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

When considering a move from Richmond to Pittsburgh, it's crucial to grasp how the financial aspects and cost of living will affect your budget and quality of life. Comparing these factors helps ensure a smoother transition and financial stability in your new city.

In moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh, you'll notice significant differences in living costs and taxes. Pittsburgh offers a lower cost of living index and a more affordable lifestyle despite a slightly lower average household income than Richmond. It's worth noting that the average property tax rate in Pittsburgh is higher, which could influence your decision if you plan to buy a home. Additionally, both cities demonstrate moderate affluence with noticeable concerns regarding poverty and homelessness. Transitioning to Pittsburgh may also align well with career opportunities, especially in the healthcare, education, and technology sectors, which are amongst the city's top industries.

Political & Religious Comparison between Richmond, VA and Pittsburgh, PA

When considering a move from Richmond, VA to Pittsburgh, PA, understanding the local climate—both political and religious—can help you anticipate the community you'll be joining. This comparison between Richmond & Pittsburgh offers a quick snapshot of what to expect in terms of the residents' political and religious makeup.

RichmondPittsburgh

Political Make-up

Liberal-leaningLiberal-leaning

Local Politics

Diverse representation, with a focus on progressive policiesHistorically Democratic, with active local governance

Religion

Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faithsChristianity predominant, including Catholic and Protestant, alongside other religions

In both cities, you will find a liberal-leaning political atmosphere, yet the roots and expressions of these leanings might vary. Richmond's political scene tends to rally around diverse representation and progressive policies that reflect its growing urban culture. On the other hand, Pittsburgh's historical Democratic foundation often translates into active local governance and policy-making that prioritizes community welfare. Religiously, Christianity takes the foreground in both cities, but they are homes to a vibrant mix of faiths and congregations, such as the Catholic Diocese of Richmond and the Diocese of Pittsburgh, implying a rich tapestry of religious expressions and community offerings that newcomers can explore and join.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Richmond to Pittsburgh

Moving from Richmond, VA to Pittsburgh, PA presents an opportunity to better understand the daily commute and traffic differences between these two cities. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in Richmond & Pittsburgh.

RichmondPittsburgh
2527

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

56

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, but limited

Can you get by without car?

In Richmond, you'll find the average commute time to be slightly less than in Pittsburgh, indicating potentially smoother traffic flow or less distance to cover. Despite this, Pittsburgh scores higher in terms of public transit availability, making it marginally easier for those without a car to navigate the city. However, it's worth noting that traffic congestion in Pittsburgh is perceived to be slightly higher, possibly due to its dense urban layout and topology that includes rivers and hills impacting road networks. Even though living in both cities without a car is feasible, doing so in Pittsburgh might be a bit more convenient because of its somewhat more extensive public transportation system.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Richmond to Pittsburgh Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Richmond, VA to Pennsylvania Moving Routes