($1,243) Movers From Pittsburgh, PA to California

1. Don Farr Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
2. South Hills Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Gardner Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.36 out of 5 stars
5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Pittsburgh to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Pittsburgh to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,243 and $5,006. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,425 to $7,613 for the trip from Pittsburgh to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,044 and $11,333.

Cost of moving containers from Pittsburgh to California

Moving containers from Pittsburgh to California will cost you $1,335 to $3,353 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,393 to $4,883. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,360 to $6,575. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Pittsburgh to California

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 $1,483 and $2,818 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Pittsburgh to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,485 to $3,257. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,836 to $4,155.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Pittsburgh:

• Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
• Time of year: Summer moves in Pittsburgh fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
• DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

• Rent in California runs about 24% higher than in Pittsburgh, so you’ll want to adjust your budget.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 247% higher in California than in Pittsburgh.
• On average, incomes in California run 69% above Pittsburgh, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
• Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 46% higher than in Pittsburgh, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
• California has a lower unemployment rate than Pittsburgh by about 24%, suggesting a stronger job market.
• Expect to pay about 333% more in income taxes in California compared to Pennsylvania.

• In the last presidential election, both Pittsburgh and California voted Democratic.
• Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 84ºF in Pittsburgh, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
• Winter lows in California stay around 59ºF, noticeably warmer than Pittsburgh, where lows drop to 21ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
• In California, you’ll get only about 22 inches of rain per year, versus 38 inches in Pittsburgh. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
• In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than Pittsburgh. That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
• California records a lower crime rate (28.43) than Pittsburgh (37.74), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.

• HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
• Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
• Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in California, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
• Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to California. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.