($1,248) Movers From Madison, WI to California

1. Above Average Moving LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
2. The Armstrong Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
4. Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.28 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Madison to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Madison to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,248 and $5,178. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,292 to $7,485 for the trip from Madison to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,563 and $11,286.

Cost of moving containers from Madison to California

Moving containers from Madison to California will cost you $1,158 to $2,868 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,164 to $4,418. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,739 to $5,735. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Madison 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 $1,122 and $2,256 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Madison to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,227 to $2,765. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,548 to $3,487.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Madison:

• Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
• Time of year: Summer moves in Madison 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 16% higher than in Madison, so you’ll want to adjust your budget.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 110% higher in California than in Madison.
• On average, incomes in California run 46% above Madison, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
• Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 30% higher than in Madison, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
• Moving to California means facing an unemployment rate 64% higher than in Madison, which could mean stiffer competition when job hunting.
• Expect to pay about 74% more in income taxes in California compared to Wisconsin.

• In the last presidential election, both Madison and California voted Democratic.
• Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 82ºF in Madison, 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 Madison, where lows drop to 10ºF. 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 36 inches in Madison. 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 Madison. 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 Madison (34.57), 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.