($1,836) Cost of Moving From Massachusetts to California
Quick answer: The average cost to move from Massachusetts to California ranges from $2,216 to $10,264 and takes seven–21 days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Massachusetts guide.
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The best Massachusetts to California full-service movers
Thinking about moving from Massachusetts to California? 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 Massachusetts to California with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in Massachusetts.
- 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 Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Oscar's Moving Company: 5 out of 5 stars
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- StairHopper Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Oscar's Moving Company
rating
5 / 5
DOT #: 1637689
Years in Business: 17
86 Rowe St, Newton, MA 02466Oscar's Moving Company, established in 2008, specializes in local residential moving services in and around Newton, MA. Unlike many nearby movers, Oscar's Moving Company boasts a stellar reputation with a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, an impressive 4.8-star average on Google My Business, and a solid 3.8-star average on Yelp from 143 reviews. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing and unpacking, and even have the capability to move pianos. Customers can pay by credit card, though a deposit is required.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1637689
- State license #: 31320
Alternative Business Names
- Oscar's Moving Company
Boston Best Rate Movers
rating
4.96 / 5
DOT #: 1718049
Years in Business: 19
252R Calvary St, Waltham, MA 02453Boston Best Rate Movers has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Waltham, MA since 2006. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them an excellent choice for meticulous movers. Clients consistently praise their reliability, as evidenced by their 4.7 average rating across 32 Yelp reviews and 530 Google reviews, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards add to their customer-friendly approach.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1718049
- State license #: 31391
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Olympia Moving & Storage
rating
4.96 / 5
DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 31
17 Bridge St, Watertown, MA 02472Olympia Moving & Storage, located in Watertown, MA, has been providing exceptional local residential moving services since 1994. They stand out among nearby moving companies with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, and the ability to move delicate items such as pianos, antiques, and safes. Their reputation is solid, boasting a Yelp average rating of 4.1 from 148 reviews, a Google My Business rating of 4.5 from 229 reviews, and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Olympia Moving & Storage also accepts credit cards and offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
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
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 70719
- State license #: 70719
- DOD certified
Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC
rating
4.9 / 5
DOT #: 1420771
Years in Business: 19
120 Quarry Dr, Milford, MA 01757Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC, based in Milford, MA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 2006. Known for their impressive track record, they boast an average rating of 4.8 from 134 Google reviews and a 4.1 average from 30 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other nearby movers, Gallo offers comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, as well as specialized moving for pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Clients appreciate their flexible payment options, with no deposit required and full valuation insurance coverage provided.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1420771
- State license #: 1420771
StairHopper Movers
rating
4.9 / 5
DOT #: 1696867
Years in Business: 21
20 Harvard Street, Boston, MA 02129StairHopper Movers, a trusted name in local residential moving since 2004, serves the Boston, MA area with exemplary service. Known for their reliability, they stand out among local competitors with impressive consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a flawless 5.0 on Google. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer comprehensive moving solutions, including packing, unpacking, and specialized services for fragile items and artwork. While a deposit is required, they accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for their customers.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1696867
- State license #: 31321
The best Massachusetts to California 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 Massachusetts and drops it off at your new home in California.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Massachusetts to California moving truck rentals
Looking to cut costs on your move from Massachusetts to California? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Massachusetts to California 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 Massachusetts to California, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to California?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Massachusetts to California. Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,836 - $7,076 | $1,837 - $4,812 | $2,026 - $3,892 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $5,269 - $10,264 | $3,190 - $6,892 | $2,216 - $4,823 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $10,012 - $15,580 | $4,723 - $8,862 | $2,943 - $6,098 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 3,095 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 Massachusetts to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Massachusetts to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,836 and $7,076. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $5,269 to $10,264 for the trip from MA to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $10,012 and $15,580.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to California
If you’re relocating from Massachusetts to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,837 and $4,812 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $3,190 up to $6,892. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $4,723 and $8,862. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to California
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 $2,026 and $3,892. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $2,216 and $4,823. Moving from Massachusetts to California or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,943 and $6,098.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to CA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Massachusetts to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
- Move size: Larger homes are pricier to move than smaller spaces like studios.
- Time of year: Prices rise during summer, which is peak moving season in Massachusetts.
- DIY vs. professional movers: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you time and hassle.
What to know before moving from MA to CA
If you’re moving to California from Massachusetts, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. California
Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in Massachusetts and California. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:
| Massachusetts | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,588 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $623,131 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $96,505 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.9% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.25% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 9.0% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 17% more expensive in California than in Massachusetts; make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 24% higher in California than in Massachusetts.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 5% lower in California than in Massachusetts.
- The cost of living is 34% higher in California than in Massachusetts. If you're making the move to California with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than Massachusetts by about 38%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring processes.
- Sales taxes are 39% higher in California than in Massachusetts. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 48% higher in California than in Massachusetts. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in California vs. Massachusetts
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 California versus Massachusetts across some essential lifestyle factors:
| California | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 7,001,399 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 16ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 49" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 47" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 13.92 |
- California has a population that's about 457% larger than Massachusetts. A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
- In the most recent presidential election, California voted Democratic, while Massachusetts went Democratic.
- Summer highs in California reach 87ºF, while Massachusetts sees temperatures around 82ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and time outdoors, but be ready for higher cooling bills and some adjustments if you’re coming from a cooler climate.
- In the heart of winter, temperatures in California dip to 59ºF, while Massachusetts can get as cold as 16ºF. Relocating to California means enjoying milder winters, which comes with lower expenses and more chances to enjoy the outdoors. If you’d rather soak up the sun than deal with winter storms, this move could be perfect for you.
- You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of rain each year in California, compared to 49 inches in Massachusetts. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Massachusetts, which gets 47 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, lower upkeep, and fewer weather-related headaches. giving you a smoother, more relaxed winter.
- California has a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 13.92. While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Massachusetts.
| Pros of living in Massachusetts | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Natural beauty | Ample economic opportunity |
| Excellent education system | Pleasant weather |
| Delicious seafood | Abundant recreational options |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | High quality of life |
| Home to Boston | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Massachusetts to California, keep these tips in mind.
| Cons of living in Massachusetts | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Bad traffic | High cost of living |
| Poor driving conditions | Heavy tax burdens |
| Harsh winter weather | Natural disasters |
| High cost of living | Terrible traffic |
| Peculiar liquor laws | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to California move
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in California, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California without a hitch. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called "released value protection," free of charge. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in California
You’ll have plenty to explore in California! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports Teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
