($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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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.
- 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
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.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Best California Movers
rating
5 / 5
DOT #: 3489907
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
15 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92591Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3489907
- State license #: T0192283
Alternative Business Names
- Best California Movers & Storage
- An Moving Forward
Meathead Movers
rating
5 / 5
DOT #: 921143
Years in Business: 27
3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401Meathead 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 921143
- State license #: 189849
Alternative Business Names
- Meathead Packers
Republic Moving & Storage
rating
4.96 / 5
DOT #: 3369820
Years in Business: 31
8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154Republic 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.
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
Air 1 Moving & Storage
rating
4.9 / 5
DOT #: 1095485
Years in Business: 22
9556 Cozycroft Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311Air 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1095485
- State license #: 0189688
Alternative Business Names
- Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
All Star Movers & Storage
rating
4.9 / 5
DOT #: 2971368
Years in Business: 10
101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA 94568All 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2971368
- State license #: 0191302
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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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:
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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.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to FL move
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
