($1,450) Cost of Moving From California to Idaho

Quick answer: When planning a move from California to Idaho, you can expect to pay anywhere from $779 to $7,380. Most relocations will take about two–seven days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • 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 Idaho to California guide.

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The best California to Idaho full-service movers

Planning a move from California to Idaho? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.

Start your move from California to Idaho with these top-rated long-distance movers 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
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(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

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in California, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive 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

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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 Idaho moving container companies

Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in California and delivering it to your new place in Idaho.

Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:

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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 Idaho moving truck rentals

Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from California to Idaho, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.

We like these 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 Idaho 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 Idaho, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.

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 ID 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 Idaho?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Idaho. 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 $1,450 - $5,860 $984 - $2,537 $766 - $1,405
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,855 - $7,380 $1,785 - $3,393 $779 - $1,756
4+ bedrooms $5,168 - $10,303 $2,305 - $4,446 $1,058 - $2,174

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 909 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 Idaho

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Idaho, you can expect prices to land between $1,450 and $5,860. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,855 to $7,380 for the trip from CA to ID. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,168 and $10,303.

Cost of moving containers from California to Idaho

If you’re relocating from California to Idaho, you’ll typically spend between $984 and $2,537 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,785 up to $3,393. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,305 and $4,446. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Idaho

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $766 and $1,405. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $779 to $1,756. If you’re heading from California to Idaho or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,058 and $2,174.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to ID

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to Idaho. 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 ID

If you’re making the move from California to Idaho, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.

Cost of living: California vs. Idaho

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in California and Idaho. 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 Idaho
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,061
Average home cost $771,057 $451,520
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $70,214
Cost of Living Index 134 106
Unemployment rate 5.4% 3.7%
Average Sales Tax 8.68% 6.03%
State Income Tax 13.3% 5.8%
  • Rent in Idaho is about 43% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
  • Home prices in Idaho are about 41% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
  • Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Idaho are about 24% lower than in California.
  • Living in Idaho costs about 21% less than in California. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
  • Idaho boasts an unemployment rate about 31% lower than California. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
  • Sales tax in Idaho is 31% lower than in California. If you have a big family or tend to spend more, this lower rate in Idaho can make a noticeable difference in your overall living costs.
  • Income taxes are 56% lower in Idaho compared to California. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.

How life is different in Idaho vs. California

Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Idaho stacks up against California across important lifestyle factors:

Idaho California
Population 1,964,726 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 70-30 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 85ºF 87ºF
Winter low 17ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 18" 22"
Annual snow 47" 7"
Crime index 11.68 28.43
  • The population of Idaho is approximately 95% 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, Idaho voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in Idaho is 85ºF 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, Idaho reaches about 17ºF and California only gets down to 59ºF. Moving to Idaho 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 only about 18 inches of annual rainfall in Idaho and 22 inches of rainfall in California. Your overall experience with precipitation is unlikely to change much, but how that rain shows up throughout the year can still impact your daily life.
  • In Idaho, it snows about 47 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches of snow. With the additional snowm you'll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
  • Idaho has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 11.68 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. Idaho

New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Idaho and California.

Pros of living in California Pros of living in Idaho
Ample economic opportunity Ample economic opportunity
Pleasant weather Low cost of living
Abundant recreational options High quality of life
High quality of life Beautiful landscapes
Fresh and healthy foods Bountiful recreational opportunities

Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Idaho

Moving from California to Idaho 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 Idaho
High cost of living Low diversity
Heavy tax burdens Harsh winters
Natural disasters Political dominance
Terrible traffic Isolation
Strange laws Competitive housing

Other things to consider for your California to Idaho move

  • Weather: The climate in Idaho varies widely. In the west cloud cover, humidity, and precipitation are at their maximum extent. Idaho can be hot but have relatively low humidity and cooler evenings during the summer months. It is important to know that winters in Idaho can be cold.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
  • State licensing: In Idaho, in-state movers are regulated by and must register with the Idaho Transportation Department. In cases of unresolvable disputes with local movers, they may help. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Idaho moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Idaho does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Idaho. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection for minimal coverage, provided by movers at no extra charge. With liability capped at 60 cents per pound per article, consider alternative coverage options from your selected moving company or explore third-party insurance for full value protection.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.

Things to do in Idaho

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

Museums in Idaho

  • Museum of Clean
  • Warhawk Air Museum
  • Museum of Idaho
  • Legacy Flight Museum
  • Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Education Center

Parks in Idaho

  • Harriman State Park
  • Sawtooth Wilderness Area
  • Indian Creek Park
  • McEuen Park
  • Thousand Springs State Park

Sports Teams in Idaho

  • Idaho Steelheads (ECHL)
  • Boise State Broncos (NCAA)
  • Idaho State Bengals (NCAA)
  • Idaho Vandals Big Sky (NCAA)

Universities in Idaho

  • University of Idaho
  • Boise State University
  • Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Idaho State University
  • Northwest Nazarene University

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from California to Idaho? 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 Idaho? 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 Idaho on your own through a top car shipping company.

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

More and more folks are relocating from California to Idaho to enjoy all the perks that come with living in Idaho, such as: ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.

Is it cheaper to live in California or Idaho? toggle

Living in Idaho usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Idaho, with average rent about 43% less and home prices 41.4% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Idaho, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by California residents.

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

If you’re planning to live solo in Idaho, a comfortable income is around $87,577. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $4,038 on your own, or $7,555 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Boise and Meridian typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

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