The commonwealth of Pennsylvania offers numerous opportunities for singles, couples, and families to enjoy an affordable, high-quality lifestyle. In addition, its great schools and proximity to several major East Coast cities, including its own storied cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, make it an attractive destination for those looking to relocate.
But before moving to Pennsylvania, you’ll need to do your due diligence in searching for and hiring affordable or cheap cross-country movers that can get you there safely. While average living costs and tax rates across the state are still low compared to the national average, finding a budget-friendly moving company will allow you to save more for your initial living costs when arriving in Pennsylvania.
Once you have organized your moving services, be sure to consider the following key things to know before moving to Pennsylvania to ensure a smooth transition into your new home.
1. Get registered in the state as soon as you arrive
To take advantage of the residence benefits of living in Pennsylvania, such as voting, you must first register with the state. You can do this by visiting the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s website and providing proof of residency, identity, and citizenship.
In most cases, you’ll have about 20 days to change your address, get a new driver’s license, and register your vehicle to a Pennsylvania address. After completing these steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the state has to offer its new residents.
2. Know the weather and plan accordingly
While you may be tempted to plan your move during the months when moving prices are at their lowest (late fall to early spring), be aware that the weather in Pennsylvania can be brutal during these times.
Winters in Pennsylvania are notoriously cold and snowy, so if you’re not prepared for frigid temperatures and treacherous driving conditions, it’s best to wait until the warmer months to make your move. Spring and summer are usually better for moving, unloading, and unpacking.
3. Inform your moving company of any special items you'll be bringing
If you have any large, valuable, or sentimental items that you’ll be bringing with you on your move, it’s essential to inform your moving company in advance. This way, they can take the necessary precautions to ensure that your items are properly packed and protected during transit.
Pennsylvania roads are known to have potholes that can damage your belongings, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your valuables.
4. Moving to Pennsylvania will probably be considered a long-distance move
Unlike local moves that are usually less than 100 miles with state lines, a move to Pennsylvania from another state will most likely be considered long-distance. Long-distance moves are typically more expensive than local moves, with the average cost ranging from $2500 to $5000 or more.
You can get an accurate estimate of your long-distance moving costs by using an online moving cost calculator to better estimate what to budget for.
5. Hiring full-service movers is recommended
With the average long-distance move being quite costly, hiring full-service movers is important to get the most bang for your buck. Full-service movers will not only transport your belongings to your new home, but they can also handle the packing, unpacking, and assembly/disassembly of furniture for an additional fee.
Be sure to request multiple moving quotes from different companies to compare rates and services before making your final decision.
6. Get familiar with the cost of living in Pennsylvania
The cost of living in most areas of Pennsylvania is very affordable, with the state’s average cost of living being about 10% lower than the national average. Housing costs are also very reasonable, with the median home price around $220,000. Rent is also well below the national average, with the average price of a one-bedroom in popular cities such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh being around $900-$1200 per month.
7. Your moving company needs to be licensed in Pennsylvania
All moving companies that operate within Pennsylvania need to be licensed by the state’s Public Utility Commission in addition to being registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
When requesting quotes from moving companies, be sure to verify that they have the proper licenses and registration to operate within Pennsylvania. You can check the status of a moving company’s license by visiting the PUC’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best place to live in Pennsylvania?
The best neighborhoods to live in in Pennsylvania will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences. Some of the best places to live in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Hershey, Harrisburg, and Lancaster.
Is it expensive to live in Pennsylvania?
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is very affordable, with the state’s average cost of living being about 10% lower than the national average. Additionally, with many low tax and no tax products and services, Pennsylvania is a great state for those looking to keep more money in their pocket.
How much does it cost to move a 3-bedroom home to Pennsylvania?
The cost to move a three-bedroom home to Pennsylvania will vary depending on the distance of the move, services required, and other factors. However, the average cost of a long-distance move to Pennsylvania is about $3000-$7000+.
Is Pennsylvania close to New York City?
Eastern Pennsylvania is relatively close to New York City – most cities are less than 100 miles away. That’s close enough to make a weekend getaway to the city an easy trip, especially if you’re in Philadelphia and can take the Amtrak train to NYC.
Do I need a parking permit in Pennsylvania?
Depending on the municipality you live in, you may need a parking permit to park oversized transport and private vehicles for more than 48 hours. In some cases, a permit may not be necessary if the vehicle is registered to an address within the municipality. Contact your local municipality for more information on parking permits.
Make Your Move To Pennsylvania Hassle-Free
There are many things to keep in mind when moving to Pennsylvania. With its affordable cost of living, scenic beauty, and convenient location, Pennsylvania is a great place to call home. Be sure to research your neighborhood of choice, get multiple quotes from moving companies, and familiarize yourself with the state’s regulations and requirements before making your move for a hassle-free transition.
