Local moving companies in California
When relocating from California to Albany, NY, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Albany, NY.
- Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191566
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2950711
Since 2017, 680 Movers has been a trusted local moving company serving Walnut Creek, CA, and nearby areas. Known for their comprehensive local residential moving services, they stand out from competitors with their top-rated customer satisfaction, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond local moves, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized services such as piano and pool table relocations. At $125 per hour, 680 Movers provides a blend of quality and affordability that makes them a popular choice among Walnut Creek residents.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Albany, NY
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Albany, NY with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,357 – $5,720 | $1,398 – $3,776 | $1,533 – $3,067 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,338 – $8,459 | $2,428 – $5,245 | $1,643 – $3,761 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,850 – $12,209 | $3,636 – $7,092 | $2,076 – $4,663 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,941-mile move from California to Albany, NY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Albany, NY
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Albany, NY, you can expect to spend between $1,357 and $5,720. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,338 to $8,459 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $7,850 and $12,209.
Cost of moving containers from California to Albany, NY
When moving from California to Albany, NY, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,398 and $3,776. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,428 to $5,245. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,636 up to $7,092. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Albany, NY
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from California to Albany, NY, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,533 and $3,067. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,643 and $3,761. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,076 and $4,663.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from California to Albany, NY
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Republic Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| 680 Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Out of the 3,175 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how California movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Albany, NY
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Albany, NY is really like compared to California. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
Cost of living: California vs. Albany, NY
| California | Albany | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,450 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $281,584 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $66,546 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 99 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 7.1% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 10.9% |
Albany sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Albany is roughly 22% less expensive than in California, leaving room for savings or upgrades.
- On average, homes in Albany cost 63% less than in California, making your move budget-friendly.
- The average income is about 28% lower in Albany than in California. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
- With unemployment 31% higher in Albany than California, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- You’ll pay roughly 18% less in state income taxes in New York compared to California, so you keep more of what you earn.
How life is different in Albany from California
| Albany | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 99,224 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 65-33 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 83ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 15ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 52″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 10.0 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- During the last presidential election, both California and Albany supported the Democratic candidate.
- Summer in Albany usually hits around 83ºF, pretty similar to the 87ºF you’re used to in California. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
- During the coldest part of the year, Albany gets down to 15ºF while California only dips to 59ºF. Relocating to Albany means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
- Expect about 40 inches of rain each year in Albany—compared to just 22 inches in California. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
- Every year, Albany gets around 52 inches of snow, much more than the 7 inches that California typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
- Albany has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 10.0 vs 28.43. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, tighter communities, and fewer hassles. While it’s not the only thing to look for when moving, it definitely gives you some extra peace of mind.
Things to do in Albany
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Albany has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in Albany
- New York State Museum
- USS Slater DE-766
- Albany Institute of History & Art
- The Irish American Heritage Museum
- American Italian Heritage Museum
Parks in Albany
- Washington Park
- Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Sports teams in Albany
- Albany Great Danes (America East)
- Saint Rose Golden Knights (NE-10)
Universities in Albany
- Maria College of Albany
- Mildred Elley School Albany Campus
- The College of Saint Rose
- Bryant and Stratton College Albany
- Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Other considerations when moving to Albany, NY
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
- State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a New York moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to New York, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to New York without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Albany take?
The time frame for a move from California to Albany, NY, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in California, the longer it’ll take to reach Albany. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Delivery from California to Albany can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Albany?
If you’re gearing up for a 2,941-mile move from California to Albany, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Albany, NY?
Summer in Albany can reach highs of 83°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 15°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Albany opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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