Arlington, VA to Sacramento, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Arlington to Sacramento typically costs $4,000–$8,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,724 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Arlington to Sacramento
Moving from Arlington, VA to Sacramento, CA typically costs $4,000–$8,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,724-mile move from Arlington to Sacramento, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,538 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,727 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $3,088 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 15, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 26, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 04, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 20, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 11, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Arlington to Sacramento move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,800 for a one-bedroom, or up to $13,300 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Arlington.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,700 to $4,900, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Sacramento, CA to Arlington, VA guide.
Best Arlington to Sacramento movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Arlington to Sacramento
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Arlington to Sacramento much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best VA→CA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 103 Virginia movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Arlington to Sacramento
Many movers find Sacramento easier on the wallet than Arlington - roughly 61% less for singles and 48% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,656 for one person in Sacramento versus $6,867 in Arlington. For a family of four, it's $6,191 compared with $11,970.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Arlington | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,475 | $2,080 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,350 | $3,540 |
| Average home value | $810,670 | $476,699 |
| Average income (per capita) | $128,145 | $78,954 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,867 | $2,656 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,970 | $6,191 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 7.7% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.75% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 13.3% |
- When relocating from Arlington to Sacramento, expect to find rent about 30% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 41% more affordable in Sacramento compared to Arlington.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 38% lower in Sacramento compared to Arlington.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Sacramento, as the cost of living for a single person is 61% lower compared to Arlington.
- A move to Sacramento can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 48% less than what it costs in Arlington.
- Sacramento shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Arlington by around 93%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Sacramento are 46% more than in Arlington, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in California are 131% above those in Virginia. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Arlington and Sacramento:
| Living Expense | Arlington | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $208.70 | $356.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $59.67 | $61.14 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $4.58 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $4.27 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $24.50 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $77.25 | $47.08 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Arlington than in Sacramento, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Arlington than in Sacramento.
- Eggs are less expensive in Arlington than in Sacramento.
- Bread costs less in Arlington than in Sacramento.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Arlington than in Sacramento.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Arlington than in Sacramento.
- Gym memberships cost more in Arlington than in Sacramento.
How life is different in Arlington vs. Sacramento
| Arlington | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,643 | 524,943 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 71 | 49 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 67 |
| Crime index | 15.67 | 49.21 |
| Safety index | 79.15 | 50.79 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Sacramento's population is about 120% greater than Arlington.
- Sacramento's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Arlington's score of 9.
- Sacramento is less walkable than Arlington with a score of 49 out of 100 vs Arlington's 71 out of 100.
- Sacramento has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Arlington, which has a score of 72.
- Sacramento's crime rate is higher than Arlington with a score of 49.21 compared to Arlington's 15.67. This means that Sacramento neighborhoods are safer than 49.21% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
- Sacramento is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 50.79 vs Arlington's 79.15.
- Air quality in Sacramento is Moderate, and in Arlington it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Arlington to Sacramento move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Sacramento. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Sacramento
Planning your move to Almond Capital of the World? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Sacramento.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Sacramento
- East Sacramento
- Land Park
- Natomas Park
- North Oak Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Boulevard Park
- River Park
- Land Park
- Village 7
- East Sacramento
- Natomas Park
Things to do in Sacramento
After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Sacramento has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Sacramento features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the California State Railroad Museum, Crocker Art Museum, California State Capitol Museum, and Old Sacramento.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, Capitol Park, William Land Park, and McKinley Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Sacramento Kings (NBA)Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship)Sacramento River Cats (Triple-A West) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Arlington to Sacramento?
Planning your move from Arlington to Sacramento? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Arlington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Arlington to Sacramento?
Because most people are moving from Arlington to Sacramento in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Arlington to Sacramento take?
The 2,724-mile journey from Arlington, VA to Sacramento, CA, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Arlington offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Sacramento.
Are there special savings available from movers in Arlington?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 7 have discounts for military personnel. 14 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Arlington?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Arlington, 57 movers can manage piano relocations. 44 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Virginia has 79 piano movers and 49 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
