Best Movers from California to Ohio (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: Moving from California to Ohio usually costs between $1,871 and $8,952, with most moves taking about seven–18 days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Ohio to California guide.
Our track record
The best California to Ohio full-service movers
Heading from California to Ohio? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.
Kick off your move to Ohio with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve California.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in California
With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in California. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Lack of communication
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
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Inaccurate estimates
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 0189688
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1095485
Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best California to Ohio moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in California and drops it off at your new home in Ohio.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best California to Ohio moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from California to Ohio, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best California to Ohio labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from California to Ohio, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to OH move
How much does it cost to move from California to Ohio?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Ohio. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,673 - $6,270 | $1,659 - $3,963 | $1,695 - $3,279 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,559 - $8,952 | $2,920 - $5,883 | $1,871 - $3,788 |
4+ bedrooms | $8,821 - $14,433 | $3,704 - $8,385 | $2,249 - $4,597 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,404 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from California to Ohio
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Ohio, you can expect prices to land between $1,673 and $6,270. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,559 to $8,952 for the trip from CA to OH. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,821 and $14,433.
Cost of moving containers from California to Ohio
When you’re heading from California to Ohio, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,659 and $3,963. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,920 and $5,883. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,704 to $8,385. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Ohio
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,695 and $3,279. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,871 and $3,788. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,249 up to $4,597 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to OH
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to Ohio. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
- Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.
What to know before moving from CA to OH
If you’re moving to Ohio from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: California vs. Ohio
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in California and Ohio. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
California | Ohio | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,856 | $945 |
Average home cost | $771,057 | $230,798 |
Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $66,990 |
Cost of Living Index | 134 | 94 |
Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 3.6% |
Average Sales Tax | 8.68% | 7.23% |
State Income Tax | 13.3% | 3.5% |
- Rent in Ohio is around 49% less than in California, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
- Good news for your budget—home prices in Ohio are roughly 70% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Ohio are roughly 27% lower than in California.
- Living in Ohio is about 30% cheaper than California. That means big savings for you, but it's still important to plan your move carefully.
- With an unemployment rate around 33% lower than California, Ohio offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
- Sales tax in Ohio is 17% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Ohio can really help cut down your living expenses.
- Income taxes in Ohio are 74% lower than in California. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Ohio vs. California
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel. From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience. Here’s how life in Ohio and California compares across key lifestyle indicators:
Ohio | California | |
---|---|---|
Population | 11,785,935 | 39,029,342 |
Political leaning | Republican 55-45 | Democratic 59-41 |
Summer high | 84ºF | 87ºF |
Winter low | 20ºF | 59ºF |
Annual rain | 40" | 22" |
Annual snow | 28" | 7" |
Crime index | 20.76 | 28.43 |
- The population of Ohio is approximately 70% lower than the population of California. Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
- In the last presidential election, Ohio voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Ohio is 84ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, Ohio reaches about 20ºF and California only gets down to 59ºF. Moving to Ohio with its colder winters means you need to prepare for higher heating costs, possible lifestyle shifts, and more intense weather, but it can also offer unique seasonal experiences and beauty.
- You can expect about 40 inches of annual rainfall in Ohio versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California. More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
- In Ohio, it snows about 28 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches of snow. With the additional snow you'll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
- Ohio has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 20.76 vs. 28.43. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it's not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Ohio
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Ohio to California.
Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Ohio |
---|---|
Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
Pleasant weather | Low cost of living |
Abundant recreational options | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life | Famously delicious beer |
Fresh and healthy foods | Amazing food |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Ohio
Moving from California to Ohio comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother.
Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Ohio |
---|---|
High cost of living | Low happiness |
Heavy tax burdens | Limited diversity |
Natural disasters | Political division |
Terrible traffic | Harsh weather |
Strange laws | Weird laws |
Other things to consider for your California to Ohio move
- Weather: Ohio forms a part of what's considered both the snowbelt and the tornado alley which means your move may be affected if either of these are impacting the state on your move day.
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a Ohio moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Ohio, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Ohio right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Ohio
Get ready to discover Ohio. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Ohio
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Cleveland Museum of Art
- A Christmas Story House
- National Museum of the US Air Force
Parks in Ohio
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Wayne National Forest
- Upper Falls at Old Man's Cave
- Maumee Bay State Park
Sports Teams in Ohio
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB)
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
- Cleveland Browns (NFL)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Universities in Ohio
- The Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
- Case Western Reserve University
- Kent State University
- Bowling Green State University