Best Movers From North Carolina to California (2025 Cost Data)

1. Athens Moving Experts: 4.66 out of 5 stars
2. Easy Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
3. Stewart Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
5. Gasperson Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from North Carolina to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from North Carolina to California typically costs between $1,248 and $4,866. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,386 and $7,233 when moving from NC to CA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from North Carolina to California, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,502 up to $11,763.

Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to California

If you’re relocating from North Carolina to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,326 and $3,201 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,426 up to $4,807. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,311 and $7,025. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to California

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,476 and $2,804. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,662 to $3,271. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,920 and $3,931.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from NC to CA

Several factors can influence your moving costs from North Carolina to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:

• Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
• Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in North Carolina, which usually means higher prices.
• Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.

• Rent is about 70% more expensive in California than in North Carolina. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
• Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in California are roughly 135% higher than in North Carolina.
• Good news — you can expect to earn about 39% more in California than in North Carolina. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
• Moving to California means you’ll be spending 40% more than you did in North Carolina. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
• Unemployment in California is about 46% higher than in North Carolina. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
• Sales tax in California runs 24% higher than in North Carolina, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
• Income taxes are 196% higher in California compared to North Carolina. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.

• If you’re moving from North Carolina to California, you’ll find California has about 260% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while North Carolina supported Republican.
• The average summer high in California is 87°F, while North Carolina averages 88°F. With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
• In winter, California drops only to 59°F, milder than 29°F in North Carolina. That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
• In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in North Carolina. That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
• In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year. By comparison, North Carolina typically gets around 4 inches annually. Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
• California has a higher crime rate than North Carolina, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 24.69. While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.

Other things to consider for your North Carolina to California move

• HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
• Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
• Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
• State regulator: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
• Moving permits: No moving permit is required in California, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Museums in California

• The Getty Center
• USS Midway Museum
• Hess Persson Estates
• California State Railroad Museum
• The Getty Villa

Parks in California

• La Jolla Cove
• Heisler Park
• Sonoma Plaza
• Mount Rubidoux Park
• Redwood Regional Park

Sports teams in California

• Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
• Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
• San Jose Sharks (NHL)
• Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
• Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)

Universities in California

• Stanford University
• University of California, Berkeley
• University of California, Los Angeles
• University of Southern California
• University of California, San Diego