($1,549) Cost of Moving From California to North Carolina

Quick answer: When planning a move from California to North Carolina, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,944 to $10,110. Most relocations will take about seven–21 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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  • 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 North Carolina to California guide.

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The best California to North Carolina full-service movers

Heading from California to North Carolina? 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 North Carolina with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve 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
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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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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

Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in California, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.

  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 North Carolina moving container companies

Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in California and dropping it off at your new home in North Carolina.

Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:

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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 North Carolina moving truck rentals

If you want to save money moving from California to North Carolina, 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:

We like these rental moving trucks:

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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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina, 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 NC 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 North Carolina?

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

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,549 - $7,085 $1,661 - $4,180 $1,905 - $3,656
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,555 - $10,110 $2,950 - $6,463 $1,944 - $4,395
4+ bedrooms $9,014 - $15,511 $4,066 - $8,888 $2,531 - $5,133

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,659 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 North Carolina

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to North Carolina typically costs between $1,549 and $7,085. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,555 and $10,110 when moving from CA to NC. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to North Carolina, you’re looking at costs ranging from $9,014 up to $15,511.

Cost of moving containers from California to North Carolina

If you’re relocating from California to North Carolina, you’ll typically spend between $1,661 and $4,180 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,950 up to $6,463. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $4,066 and $8,888. 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 North Carolina

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 $1,905 and $3,656. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,944 and $4,395. Planning a move from California to North Carolina or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,531 up to $5,133 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to NC

There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to North Carolina will depend on these factors:

  • Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
  • Time of year: The peak moving season in California is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.

What to know before moving from CA to NC

If you’re moving from California to North Carolina, take a moment to see how your new state compares to your current one.

Cost of living: California vs. North Carolina

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in California and North Carolina. 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 North Carolina
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,093
Average home cost $771,057 $328,715
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $66,186
Cost of Living Index 134 96
Unemployment rate 5.4% 3.7%
Average Sales Tax 8.68% 6.98%
State Income Tax 13.3% 4.5%
  • You’ll pay about 41% less in rent in North Carolina compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
  • Here’s some good news for your wallet—home prices in North Carolina are about 57% lower than in California. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
  • Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in North Carolina are about 28% lower than in California.
  • Moving to North Carolina costs about 28% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
  • With an unemployment rate about 31% lower than California, North Carolina boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
  • Sales tax in North Carolina is 20% lower than in California. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in North Carolina could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
  • Income taxes in North Carolina are 66% lower than in California. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.

How life is different in North Carolina 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 North Carolina versus California across some essential lifestyle factors:

North Carolina California
Population 10,835,491 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 51-49 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 88ºF 87ºF
Winter low 29ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 48" 22"
Annual snow 4" 7"
Crime index 24.69 28.43
  • The population of North Carolina is approximately 72% 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, North Carolina voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in North Carolina is 88ºF 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, North Carolina reaches about 29ºF and California only gets down to 59ºF. Moving to North Carolina 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 48 inches of annual rainfall in North Carolina 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 North Carolina, it snows about 4 inches annually while California gets 7 inches of snow. With snow levels being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
  • North Carolina has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 24.69 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. North Carolina

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

Pros of living in California Pros of living in North Carolina
Ample economic opportunity Great communities
Pleasant weather Low cost of living
Abundant recreational options Ample economic opportunity
High quality of life High quality of life
Fresh and healthy foods Bountiful recreational opportunities

Comparing the cons of living in California vs. North Carolina

Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from California to North Carolina, keep these tips in mind.

Cons of living in California Cons of living in North Carolina
High cost of living Hurricanes
Heavy tax burdens Bland weather
Natural disasters High crime rate
Terrible traffic High tax burden
Strange laws Poor education

Other things to consider for your California to North Carolina move

  • Weather: North Carolina has mild weather year round, however, snow may affect your move in some parts of the state during winter time.
  • 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: North Carolina 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 North Carolina. 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 Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.

Things to do in North Carolina

While you’re in North Carolina, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:

Museums in North Carolina

  • Biltmore
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
  • International Civil Rights Center & Museum
  • Greensboro Science Center
  • Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Parks in North Carolina

  • Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
  • Mingo Falls
  • The North Carolina Arboretum
  • Sarah P. Duke Gardens
  • Fontana Lake

Sports Teams in North Carolina

  • Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
  • Carolina Panthers (NFL)
  • Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
  • North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
  • Charlotte FC (MLS)

Universities in North Carolina

  • North Carolina State University
  • University of North Carolina at Charlotte
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • East Carolina University
  • Appalachian State University

FAQs

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

What are the benefits of moving from California to North Carolina? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from California to North Carolina to enjoy all the perks that come with living in North Carolina, such as: great communities and low cost of living.

Is it cheaper to live in California or North Carolina? toggle

Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in North Carolina, with average rent about 41% less and home prices 57.4% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in North Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California residents.

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

If you’re planning to live solo in North Carolina, a comfortable income is around $33,693. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $4,618 on your own, or $7,201 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Charlotte and Raleigh typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources