|
|
|
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
California to Kansas Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- Moving from California to Kansas with professional movers for a two-bedroom home generally falls between $2,900 and $5,600.*Figures assume a 2–3 bedroom household and four–15 days for delivery. Your price and schedule will vary by home size, mileage, and time of year.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from California to Kansas is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Who are the best movers to move from California to Kansas?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to Kansas is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from California to Kansas below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
|
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from California to Kansas
We typically suggest booking a professional, long-distance mover for your California to Kansas move, because pros are prepared to handle the planning and paperwork that can pop up over 1,538 miles. From our evaluation of 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team identified 2,642 (83%) that handle interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts selected the top companies prepared to handle your move from California to Kansas.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
How much does it cost to move from California to Kansas?
It costs between $2,900–$9,200 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to Kansas. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to Kansas?
Moving from California to Kansas can cost anywhere from $1,201–$8,034, but most people pay around $2,898–$5,599 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,201 – $4,741 | $966 – $2,332 | $905 – $1,617 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,898 – $6,694 | $1,623 – $3,645 | $903 – $2,104 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,803 – $9,195 | $2,420 – $4,777 | $1,161 – $2,571 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,538-mile move from CA to KS using moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 30, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,898 – $6,694 to hire a moving company to move you from California to Kansas. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,201 – $4,741
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,898 – $6,694
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,803 – $9,195
How much do moving containers cost from California to Kansas?
Using a moving container from California to Kansas costs, on average, $1,623 – $3,645. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $966 – $2,332
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,623 – $3,645
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,420 – $4,777
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from California to Kansas will costs you between $903 – $2,104, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $905 – $1,617
- 2–3 bedrooms: $903 – $2,104
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,161 – $2,571
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from California to Kansas, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to KS?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Kansas — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $986 in Kansas, and average home values go from $771,057 to $229,012.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 87), unemployment (5.4% vs. 3.4%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 8.65%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 5.7%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| California | Kansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $986 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $229,012 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $69,747 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 3.4% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 8.65% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.7% |
Will rent be more expensive in Kansas?
Rent is about 47% lower in Kansas than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $986
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 70% lower in Kansas than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $229,012
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 24% lower in Kansas than in California.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $69,747
Is the overall cost of living higher in Kansas?
The cost of living is 35% lower in Kansas than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 87
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in California and Kansas.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 8.65%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 57% lower in Kansas than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 5.7%
How is daily life different in Kansas compared to California?
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing — it’s about how daily life will feel.
| Kansas | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,940,546 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 57.1%-41.1 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 33″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 15″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 24.07 | 28.43 |
Will Kansas feel more crowded than California?
Kansas is about 92% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Kansas voted Republican while California voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (91°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Kansas is colder on average (19°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Kansas?
Rain: Kansas gets more rain (33″ vs. 22″).
Snow: Kansas gets more snow (15 inches vs. 7 inches).
Is Kansas safer than California?
Kansas has a lower crime index than California (24.07 vs. 28.43), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Kansas?
Museums in Kansas
- Evel Knievel Museum
- Old Cowtown Museum
- Boot Hill Museum
- Exploration Place
- Flint Hills Discovery Center
Parks in Kansas
- Ernie Miller Nature Center
- Coronado Heights
- Lewis & Clark Historic Park at Kaw Point
- Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa
- Gezer Park
Sports teams in Kansas
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
- Wichita Thunder (ECHL)
- Wichita Wind Surge (Double-A Central)
- Kansas Jayhawks (NCAA)
- Kansas State Wildcats (NCAA)
Universities in Kansas
- University of Kansas
- Kansas State University
- Wichita State University
- Fort Hays State University
- Emporia State University
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your California to Kansas move
- HOA rules: Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
- State licensing: In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers. The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a Kansas moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Kansas, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance free of charge. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Book your building’s elevator early.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Kansas?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Kansas?
In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers. The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Kansas moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Kansas?
You don’t need a moving permit in Kansas.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance free of charge. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
Some movers in California offer discounts: 7 AAA discounts; 7 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 4 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Handy Moving Resources
California Moving Services
Frequently Traveled California Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!