When relocating from Pennsylvania to California, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,507 to
$7,506, roughly
$3,647 for a container move, and close to
$2,465
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, you can choose from 87 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to California. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Pennsylvania. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- The Armstrong Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Zippy Shell: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- South Hills Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 8917264
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage
Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920700
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3078473
Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.
Forward Moving LLC, serving Exton, PA, has been the reliable choice for local residential moving since 2018. Known for their comprehensive range of services, they handle everything from simple packing and unpacking to more specialized tasks like moving pianos, art, and antiques. While their Yelp reviews average a 3.9 rating from 11 reviewers, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average from 274 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Forward Moving LLC accepts credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3060008
Alternate Names: Masha Mobile Moving and Storage, LLC
Zippy Shell, a local moving company based in Pottstown, PA, has been serving the community since 2019. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an impressive 4.3 rating on Yelp from 39 reviews and an even higher 4.6 rating from 168 reviews on Google My Business, along with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many of their competitors, Zippy Shell offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, making them a one-stop-shop for all moving needs. Additionally, they are equipped to move delicate items such as pianos and antiques, ensuring a secure and efficient relocation process. For those looking for trusted local residential movers, Zippy Shell stands out as a reliable and highly-rated choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 8919262
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: BLL Charles Inc
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been serving the Glenshaw, PA area with reliable local residential moving services since 2018. Renowned for its comprehensive offerings, such as office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, this company stands out among local competitors. Clients appreciate their no-deposit policy and credit card payment options, evidenced by an impressive 4.7-star average from 853 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp reviews are more mixed. Overall, College Hunks offers a trustworthy and versatile moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 94
DOT #: 98045
South Hills Movers, a trusted name in Bethel Park, PA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1931. With an impressive array of offerings that include packing, unpacking, and specialized services for moving pianos, art, and antiques, they cater to a wide range of customer needs. While their Yelp profile shows a modest rating, they boast a stronger 4.1 average on Google and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a generally positive reputation. Compared to other nearby movers, South Hills Movers stands out for their long history and comprehensive service options, making them a reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Pennsylvania to California moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in Pennsylvania and drop it off at your new home in California.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
|
|
|
|
rating
The best Pennsylvania to California moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Pennsylvania to California, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat equity, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
|
|
|
|
The best Pennsylvania to California labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that’s the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from Pennsylvania to California, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
|
|
|
|
How we chose the best moving companies for your PA to CA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 103 Pennsylvania moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
- Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
- Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Pennsylvania to California?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Pennsylvania to California. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,192 – $5,224 | $1,349 – $3,431 | $1,514 – $2,788 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,507 – $7,506 | $2,347 – $4,948 | $1,542 – $3,389 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,014 – $11,744 | $3,404 – $6,954 | $2,031 – $4,116 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,730-mile move from PA to CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Pennsylvania to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Pennsylvania to California typically costs between $1,192 and $5,224. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,507 and $7,506 when moving from PA to CA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Pennsylvania to California, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,014 up to $11,744.
Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to California
If you’re relocating from Pennsylvania to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,349 and $3,431 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,347 up to $4,948. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,404 and $6,954. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Pennsylvania 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 $1,514 and $2,788. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,542 to $3,389. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,031 and $4,116.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from PA to CA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, which usually means higher prices.
- Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from PA to CA
Transitioning from Pennsylvania to California gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs. California
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Pennsylvania and California are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| Pennsylvania | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,110 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $268,824 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,170 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 99 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | 6.34% | 8.68% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 67% more expensive in California than in Pennsylvania. 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 187% higher than in Pennsylvania.
- Good news — you can expect to earn about 26% more in California than in Pennsylvania. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be spending 35% more than you did in Pennsylvania. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is about 59% higher than in Pennsylvania. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
- Sales tax in California runs 37% higher than in Pennsylvania, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
- Income taxes are 333% higher in California compared to Pennsylvania. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in California vs. Pennsylvania
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how California and Pennsylvania compare.
| California | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 12,961,683 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 22″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 7″ | 38″ |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 17.62 |
- If you’re moving from Pennsylvania to California, you’ll find California has about 201% 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 Pennsylvania supported Republican.
- The average summer high in California is 87°F, while Pennsylvania averages 83°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 19°F in Pennsylvania. 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 44 inches you’re used to in Pennsylvania. That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
- In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Pennsylvania gets 38 inches. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
- California has a higher crime rate than Pennsylvania, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 17.62. 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.
Comparing the pros of Pennsylvania vs. California
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in California to Pennsylvania:
| Pros of living in Pennsylvania | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant fun and recreational activities | Pleasant weather |
| Beautiful landscapes | Abundant recreational options |
| Ample economic opportunity | High quality of life |
| Excellent education options | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Pennsylvania vs. California
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Pennsylvania to California:
| Cons of living in Pennsylvania | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | High cost of living |
| Bad driving conditions | Heavy tax burdens |
| Nuclear power plants | Natural disasters |
| Unpredictable weather | Terrible traffic |
| High taxes on gasoline | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Pennsylvania 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.
Things to do in California
Get excited to explore California. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Pennsylvania to California?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Pennsylvania moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Pennsylvania to California?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Pennsylvania to California separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Pennsylvania to California?
Many people are making the move from Pennsylvania to California to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in California has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Pennsylvania or California?
Living in Pennsylvania usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Pennsylvania, with average rent about 40% less and home prices 65% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 70% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
Planning to move to California? A single adult should aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $5,276 for an individual, or $10,220 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Pennsylvania?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Pennsylvania: 1 movers offer AAA member savings; 1 have senior-discount programs;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Pennsylvania moving services
Popular Pennsylvania routes
Popular moving resources
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
