Best Movers From California to Minnesota (2025 Cost Data)
When relocating from California to Minnesota, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,160 to
$6,813, roughly
$2,987 for a container move, and close to
$1,906
for a rental truck.
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Let’s get moving.
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$1,168 — $6,813 Top local mover
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$1,168 — $10,770 Top long-distance mover
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$1,132 — $5,261 Top container company
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$1,082 — $2,948 Top truck rental
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$59 — $81/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
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Best professional movers from California to Minnesota
After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from California to Minnesota.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from California to Minnesota
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 18, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 08, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 30, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 13, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 02, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 25, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 19, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 05, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to Minnesota?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,168 – $4,877 | $1,132 – $2,718 | $1,082 – $2,023 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,160 – $6,813 | $2,074 – $3,900 | $1,254 – $2,559 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,845 – $10,770 | $2,598 – $5,261 | $1,432 – $2,948 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,168 – $4,877
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,160 – $6,813
- 4+ bedrooms: $5,845 – $10,770
How much do moving containers cost from California to Minnesota?
- Small move: $1,132 – $2,718
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,074 – $3,900
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,598 – $5,261
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,082 – $2,023
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,254 – $2,559
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,432 – $2,948
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 1,986-mile move from CA to MN using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to MN?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| California | Minnesota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $1,178 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $334,119 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $84,313 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 94 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 3.4% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 8.03% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 9.85% |
Will rent be more expensive in Minnesota?
Rent is about 37% lower in Minnesota than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $1,178
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 57% lower in Minnesota than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $334,119
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 8% lower in Minnesota than in California.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $84,313
Is the overall cost of living higher in Minnesota?
The cost of living is 30% lower in Minnesota than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 94
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 7% lower in Minnesota than in California.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 8.03%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 26% lower in Minnesota than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 9.85%
How is daily life different in Minnesota compared to California?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| Minnesota | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,737,915 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51.1-46.9 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 2ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 29″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 47″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 22.47 | 28.43 |
Will Minnesota feel more crowded than California?
Minnesota is about 85% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both California and Minnesota voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Minnesota is cooler on average (81°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Minnesota is colder on average (2°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Minnesota?
Rain: Minnesota gets more rain (29″ vs. 22″).
Snow: Minnesota gets more snow (47 inches vs. 7 inches).
Is Minnesota safer than California?
Minnesota has a lower crime index than California (22.47 vs. 28.43), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Minnesota?
Museums in Minnesota
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Mill City Museum
- Minnesota History Center
- Paisley Park
Parks in Minnesota
- Minnehaha Park
- Teddy Bear Park
- Enger Park and Tower
- Canal Park
- Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Sports teams in Minnesota
- Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
- Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Minnesota United FC (MLS)
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL)
Universities in Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- Rasmussen College
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your California to Minnesota move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- State licensing: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Minnesota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Minnesota, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage at no extra cost. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Minnesota?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Minnesota?
To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Minnesota moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Minnesota?
No moving permit is required in Minnesota.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance at no extra cost. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
Some movers in California offer discounts: 7 AAA discounts; 7 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 4 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
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