Local moving companies in Dayton
Out of 14 Dayton movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- American Way Van & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Mayberry’s Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Lincoln Storage & Moving Inc: 4.26 out of 5 stars
- Greater Dayton Moving & Storage: 4.26 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 00139517
Years in Business: 35
DOT #: 76628
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 80
DOT #: 81407
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 75
DOT #: 728239
Alternate Names: Lewis & Michael, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 00606034
Years in Business: 108
DOT #: 1008646
Alternate Names: Lincoln Storage and Moving
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 00136483
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 938251
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Local moving services in Dayton, OH
Here’s how many movers in Dayton include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Dayton, OH to California
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Dayton to California with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,343 – $5,348 | $1,291 – $3,082 | $1,265 – $2,370 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,523 – $7,751 | $2,251 – $4,479 | $1,384 – $2,999 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,618 – $11,866 | $2,941 – $5,886 | $1,729 – $3,459 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,308-mile move from Dayton, OH, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Dayton to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Dayton to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,343 and $5,348. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,523 to $7,751 for the trip from Dayton to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,618 and $11,866.
Cost of moving containers from Dayton to California
Moving containers from Dayton to California will cost you $1,291 to $3,082 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,251 to $4,479. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,941 to $5,886. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Dayton.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Dayton 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 $1,265 and $2,370 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Dayton to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,384 to $2,999. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,729 to $3,459.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Dayton to CA
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Dayton:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Dayton 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.
What you should know before moving from Dayton to CA
When relocating from Dayton to California, you can look forward to new experiences, yet it’s crucial to anticipate higher living expenses. With California typically being more costly than Dayton, careful financial planning is essential.
Compare the lifestyle in Dayton with that in California to better prepare yourself for your upcoming move:
Compare cost of living: Dayton vs. California
| Dayton, OH | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $925 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $135,815 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,673 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 80 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.8% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in California runs about 101% higher than in Dayton, so you’ll want to adjust your budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 468% higher in California than in Dayton.
- On average, incomes in California run 47% above Dayton, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 68% higher than in Dayton, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
- California has a lower unemployment rate than Dayton by about 21%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Expect to pay about 280% more in income taxes in California compared to Ohio.
How life is different in Dayton, OH from California
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in California stacks up against what you’re used to in Dayton.
| Dayton, OH | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 137,644 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 50-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 85ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 21ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 17″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 4.0 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Dayton and California voted Democratic.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 85ºF in Dayton, 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 Dayton, 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 40 inches in Dayton. 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 Dayton. That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- California records a higher crime rate (28.43) than Dayton (4.0). It’s wise to research neighborhoods to understand how this may affect your day-to-day.
Other considerations when moving to California
When you’re moving from Dayton to California, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect 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.
Things to do in California
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, California has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from Dayton to California take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Dayton, OH, to California? Most moves on this route usually take seven to 18 days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are five movers in Dayton that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Dayton moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Dayton to California?
Need to get your car from Dayton to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Dayton to California car shippers.
Why are people moving from Dayton to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Dayton?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Dayton.
Can I pay for my move from Dayton, OH, with cash?
There are four movers in Dayton that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
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