($1,218) Movers From California to Seattle, WA

1. Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
3. 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Seattle, WA

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Seattle, WA, you can expect prices to land between $1,218 and $4,719. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,302 to $5,928. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,065 and $7,834.

Cost of moving containers from California to Seattle, WA

Moving containers from California to Seattle, WA, will cost you $785 to $2,007 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,424 to $2,965. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,994 to $3,590. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Seattle, WA

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $599 and $1,145 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Seattle, WA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $646 to $1,403. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $812 to $1,654.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Rent is about 6% more expensive in Seattle than in California, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
• In Seattle, home prices run about 9% higher than in California. Be prepared for a larger down payment, steeper property taxes, and higher overall homeownership costs.
• Salaries in Seattle are typically about 15% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
• Unemployment in Seattle is about 11% lower than in California, so you may have better chances of finding work.
• One big perk of Washington is that it has no income tax, letting you hold on to more of your paycheck each month.

• In the last presidential election, both California and Seattle voted Democratic.
• Summers in Seattle average 76ºF, while California typically sees highs of 87ºF. Choosing to move somewhere cooler can mean less extreme heat, reduced energy costs, and more time to enjoy being outside in the summer.
• Winter in Seattle can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 36ºF, much chillier than the 59ºF winters of California. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Seattle have their own special appeal.
• 38 inches of rain each year in Seattle, considerably more than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
• In Seattle, you’ll get about 5 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, California usually sees around 7 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
• Crime rates in Seattle are higher than in California, with a crime index of 58.88 versus 28.43. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.

• HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
• Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time 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, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
• State licensing: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
• State regulator: You can check your Washington moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
• Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Washington, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
• 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 all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Washington. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
• Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.