($1,633) Cost of Moving From California to Florida

Quick answer: When you’re moving from California to Florida, you’ll typically spend between $2,017 and $10,154. Most moves take around seven–21 days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.

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  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
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  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Florida to California guide.

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The best California to Florida full-service movers

Thinking about moving from California to Florida? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from California to Florida with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in California.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • 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
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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The best local moving companies in California

Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in California based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.

  1. Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Best California Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 3489907

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

15 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92591
Get a Quote

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Best California Movers & Storage
  • An Moving Forward
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Meathead Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 921143

Years in Business: 27

3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

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.

Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Meathead Packers
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Republic Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 3369820

Years in Business: 31

8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154

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.

Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • 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

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 3369820
  • State license #: 0190491
  • DOD certified

Alternative Business Names

  • Lovejoy's Family Moving
  • Republic Relocation Services

Local Associations

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Air 1 Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 1095485

Years in Business: 22

9556 Cozycroft Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311

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.

Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
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All Star Movers & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 2971368

Years in Business: 10

101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA 94568

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.

Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage

Additional Information

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The best California to Florida 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 Florida.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best California to Florida moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from California to Florida? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best California to Florida labor-only movers

If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.

Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from California to Florida.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 22
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to FL movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from California to Florida?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Florida with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,633 - $6,588 $1,699 - $4,189 $1,863 - $3,464
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,886 - $10,154 $3,136 - $6,607 $2,017 - $4,125
4+ bedrooms $9,193 - $14,532 $3,989 - $8,658 $2,473 - $5,274

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,704 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 Florida

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Florida will cost between $1,633 and $6,588. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to FL will range from $4,886 to $10,154, and a large move from California to Florida will cost from $9,193 to $14,532.

Cost of moving containers from California to Florida

If you're moving from California to Florida, expect to pay between $1,699 and $4,189 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $3,136 up to $6,607. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,989 and $8,658. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Florida

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,863 and $3,464. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $2,017 and $4,125. Moving from California to Florida or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,473 and $5,274.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to FL

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to Florida. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in California.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from CA to FL

If you’re moving from California to Florida, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.

Cost of living: California vs. Florida

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in California and Florida. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

California Florida
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,444
Average home cost $771,057 $392,176
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $67,917
Cost of Living Index 134 102
Unemployment rate 5.4% 2.9%
Average Sales Tax 8.68% 7.08%
State Income Tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Expect to pay around 22% less in rent in Florida than in California, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
  • Good news for your budget—home prices in Florida are around 49% lower than in California. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
  • Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Florida are about 26% lower than in California.
  • Moving to Florida is about 24% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
  • With an unemployment rate roughly 46% lower than California, Florida offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
  • Sales tax in Florida is 18% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Florida can really help lower your monthly costs.
  • A major benefit of moving to Florida is the lack of state income tax. You get to hang on to more of your money, whether you’re working, freelancing, or enjoying retirement.

How life is different in Florida vs. California

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in Florida versus California across some essential lifestyle factors:

Florida California
Population 22,610,726 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 51-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 91ºF 87ºF
Winter low 49ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 55" 22"
Annual snow 0" 7"
Crime index 21.39 28.43
  • The population of Florida is about 42% smaller than that of California. Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
  • In the most recent presidential election, Florida voted Republican, while California went Democratic.
  • Summer highs average 91ºF in Florida and 87ºF in California. That means your move shouldn’t require you to adjust too much to the summer weather. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, unique weather quirks, and energy costs to really know what summer will feel like in your new home.
  • In the coldest months, temperatures in Florida dip to around 49ºF, while California only falls to about 59ºF. Relocating to Florida means you’ll likely face colder winters, which can bring higher heating bills, change up your routine, and bring on more extreme weather, but you’ll also get to enjoy the unique beauty and experiences that come with the season.
  • Expect about 55 inches of rain each year in Florida, a noticeable difference from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
  • In Florida, you’ll see just 0 inches of snow each year, compared to California, which gets 7 inches annually. Moving to Florida means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, lower upkeep, and fewer weather-related headaches. giving you a smoother, more relaxed winter.
  • Florida boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 21.39 compared to 28.43. This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you're moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.

Comparing the pros of California vs. Florida

Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Florida compared to California.

Pros of living in California Pros of living in Florida
Ample economic opportunity Fantastic weather
Pleasant weather Abundant water recreational activities
Abundant recreational options Ample economic opportunity
High quality of life World-leading entertainment
Fresh and healthy foods Beautiful flora and fauna

Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Florida

Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to Florida.

Cons of living in California Cons of living in Florida
High cost of living High cost of living
Heavy tax burdens Poor healthcare
Natural disasters Natural disasters
Terrible traffic Heat and humidity
Strange laws High crime rate

Other things to consider for your California to Florida move

  • Weather: Severe weather is a common occurrence in Florida, as Florida is the most hurricane-prone state in the US. June 1st and November 30 is the time when most hurricanes in Florida occur, the most severe dates lie between August - October. Be sure to check your local weather station before your move as Florida is known for its thunderstorms and high levels of precipitation. Perhaps plan for a Winter or Springtime move to ensure the safety of your belongings.
  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
  • Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
  • Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
  • State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
  • State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Florida moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Florida, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Florida right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover's liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
  • Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Things to do in Florida

Get excited to explore Florida. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:

Museums in Florida

  • Wynwood Halls
  • The Ringling
  • Edison and Ford Winter Estates
  • The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
  • The Dali Museum

Parks in Florida

  • Dry Tortugas National Park
  • Everglades National Park
  • De Soto National Memorial
  • Fort Matanzas National Monument
  • Ocala National Forest

Sports Teams in Florida

  • Miami Heat (NBA)
  • Orlando Magic (NBA)
  • Miami Marlins (MLB)
  • Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

Universities in Florida

  • University of Florida
  • Florida State University
  • University of South Florida
  • University of Central Florida
  • Florida International University

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from California to Florida? toggle

Choosing a full-service California moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from California to Florida? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from California to Florida on your own through a top car shipping company.

What are the benefits of moving from California to Florida? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from California to Florida to enjoy all the perks that come with living in Florida, such as: fantastic weather and abundant water recreational activities.

Is it cheaper to live in California or Florida? toggle

Living in Florida usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Florida, with average rent about 22% less and home prices 49.1% lower than in California. Florida has no income tax.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Florida? toggle

If you’re planning to live solo in Florida, a comfortable income is around $59,498. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $2,900 on your own, or $7,028 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Jacksonville and Miami typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

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