($1,640) Cost of Moving From Ohio to California
Quick answer: When you’re moving from Ohio to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,726 and $9,409. Most moves take around seven–18 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 California to Ohio guide.
Our track record
The best Ohio to California full-service movers
Planning a move from Ohio to California? With countless moving companies to choose from, finding the right interstate mover can be tough. We’ve made it easier by researching and handpicking the best options based on detailed reviews, upfront pricing, and exceptional services.
Start your journey from Ohio to California with these top-rated long-distance movers serving Ohio.
- 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 Ohio
With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Ohio. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 5 out of 5 stars
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Blue Men Moving LLC: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Berger Allied Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Leaders Moving & Storage Co.
rating
5 / 5
DOT #: 1237577
Years in Business: 30
7455 Alta View Blvd, Columbus, OH 43085Leaders Moving & Storage Co., serving the Columbus, OH area since 1995, specializes in local residential moves with a reputation that stands out among competitors. With an impressive 4.8 average rating from 1660 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice for many. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and office moving, ensuring a seamless experience. Unlike some local movers, Leaders Moving & Storage Co. accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient option for your next local move.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1237577
- State license #: 00136562
Alternative Business Names
- Leaders Moving
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.
- L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co.
- Leaders Moving And Storage Company
MVM Moving & Storage
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 1444491
Years in Business: 19
3979 Parkway Lane, Hilliard, OH 43026 USMVM Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in Hilliard, OH since 2007. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they clearly prioritize customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, MVM offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling of fragile items, ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience. Additionally, they can expertly move pianos, pool tables, and antiques, making them ideal for those with valuable or delicate items. They accept credit cards and require no deposit, setting them apart for convenience and reliability.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1444491
- State license #: 156647
Alternative Business Names
- MVM Columbus
- MVM Columbus Incorporated.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 19
11807 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 USTwo Men and a Truck offers local residential moving services in and around Cincinnati, OH, and has been a trusted name since 2005. While they boast an impressive 4.8 average rating from 574 Google reviews and hold an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp profile shows a more mixed reception with a 2.7 average from 25 reviews. They provide packing and unpacking services and can handle special items like pianos and safes, setting them apart from many nearby competitors. The company accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient and reliable option for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
Blue Men Moving LLC
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 2462290
Years in Business: 13
7304 Tussing Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068Blue Men Moving LLC, based in Reynoldsburg, OH, has been offering reliable local residential moving services since 2012. With impressive consumer reviews, including a 5.0 average rating on Google My Business from 342 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out as a reputable choice among local movers. Unlike many competitors, they require no deposit, providing added convenience for their clients. Additionally, Blue Men Moving LLC offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
Alternative Business Names
- Blue Men Moving Columbus
- Picktown Moving LLC
Berger Allied Moving & Storage
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 125665
Years in Business: 115
7780 Northfield Rd, Walton Hills, OH 44146Berger Allied Moving & Storage offers top-tier local residential moving services in and around Walton Hills, OH. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Berger Allied stands out with their exceptional Google My Business profile, boasting 570 reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.9. They provide a wide array of additional services such as packing, unpacking, crating, and moving specialty items like pianos and antiques. Customers appreciate that no deposit is required and the convenience of full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking. While their Yelp ratings are more modest with an average of 3.7 from three reviews, they are generally seen as a reputable and reliable choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 125665
- State license #: 144651-HG
Alternative Business Names
- Berger Transfer & Storage International, Inc.
Local Associations
The best Ohio to California 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 Ohio and delivering it to your new place in California.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best Ohio to California moving truck rentals
If you're looking to cut costs on your move from Ohio to California, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Ohio to California 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 Ohio to California.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your OH to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Ohio to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Ohio to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,640 - $6,656 | $1,675 - $3,805 | $1,611 - $3,182 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,739 - $9,409 | $2,693 - $5,648 | $1,726 - $3,982 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $9,168 - $15,157 | $3,977 - $7,587 | $2,181 - $4,550 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,404 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 Ohio to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Ohio to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,640 and $6,656. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,739 to $9,409 for the trip from OH to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $9,168 and $15,157.
Cost of moving containers from Ohio to California
If you’re relocating from Ohio to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,675 and $3,805 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,693 up to $5,648. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,977 and $7,587. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio to California
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,611 to $3,182. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,726 to $3,982, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Ohio to California costs around $2,181 to $4,550.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from OH to CA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Ohio to California. 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 Ohio.
- 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 OH to CA
If you’re moving to California from Ohio, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Ohio vs. California
Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between Ohio and California. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:
| Ohio | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $945 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $230,798 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,990 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 7.23% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 3.5% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 96% higher in California than in Ohio. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 234% more than what you'll find in Ohio.
- Good news—you can expect to earn about 37% more in California than in Ohio. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be paying 43% more than you did in Ohio. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is roughly 50% higher than in Ohio. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
- Sales taxes are 20% higher in California than in Ohio. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in California are 280% higher than in Ohio. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Ohio
Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in California compared to Ohio across a few key lifestyle factors:
| California | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 11,785,935 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 55-45 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 20ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 28" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 20.76 |
- If you’re moving from Ohio to California, you’ll find California has about 231% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
- In the most recent presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Ohio went with Republican.
- Summer temperatures usually hit around 87ºF in California and 84ºF in Ohio. If those numbers are close, you’ll likely have an easy time getting used to the new climate. Just don’t forget to think about humidity, typical weather, and energy costs to get the full picture of summer in your new place.
- Winter temperatures in California hover around 59ºF, while Ohio can dip to a chilly 20ºF. By making the move to California, you’ll enjoy gentler winters, making life a bit easier and often more affordable. Plus, with less snow and cold, you’ll have more chances to get outdoors. If you’re ready to swap snow shovels for sunnier days, this is the perfect change for you.
- In California, you’ll see about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Ohio. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than the 28 inches you’d see in Ohio. That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling, less upkeep, and fewer weather headaches, making life in the colder months a whole lot easier.
- California has a higher crime rate than Ohio, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 20.76. While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it's smart to research neighborhoods, stay update
Comparing the pros of Ohio vs. California
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in California versus Ohio.
| Pros of living in Ohio | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living | Pleasant weather |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Abundant recreational options |
| Famously delicious beer | High quality of life |
| Amazing food | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Ohio vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Ohio to California, keep these tips in mind.
| Cons of living in Ohio | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low happiness | High cost of living |
| Limited diversity | Heavy tax burdens |
| Political division | Natural disasters |
| Harsh weather | Terrible traffic |
| Weird laws | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Ohio 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
Get ready to discover California. Check out these must-visit places 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
