When relocating from California to Rhode Island, expect professional movers to cost around
$4,034 to
$8,867, roughly
$3,859 for a container move, and close to
$2,848
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in California
In California, you can choose from 309 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to Rhode Island. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in California. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- 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
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0192497
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
Seka Moving, serving Los Angeles, CA, since 2019, has quickly built a stellar reputation for local residential moving services. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 137 Google reviews and 4.5 from 17 Yelp reviews, this A+ BBB rated company stands out among local competitors. Seka Moving offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized handling for fragile items, pianos, art, and antiques. Clients can also opt for labor-only services, with the convenience of paying via cash, credit cards, or money orders. For those looking for a reliable and highly rated moving partner in Los Angeles, Seka Moving is a top choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best California to Rhode Island moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in California and drop it off at your new home in Rhode Island.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best California to Rhode Island moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from California to Rhode Island, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat equity, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best California to Rhode Island labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that’s the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from California to Rhode Island, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to RI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 362 California moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
- 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%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
- Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
- Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Rhode Island?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Rhode Island. 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 | $1,437 – $6,300 | $1,422 – $3,621 | $1,568 – $3,201 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,034 – $8,867 | $2,546 – $5,173 | $1,733 – $3,963 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,310 – $13,608 | $3,769 – $7,668 | $2,349 – $4,866 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,079-mile move from CA to RI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from California to Rhode Island
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Rhode Island typically costs between $1,437 and $6,300. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,034 and $8,867 when moving from CA to RI. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Rhode Island, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,310 up to $13,608.
Cost of moving containers from California to Rhode Island
If you’re relocating from California to Rhode Island, you’ll typically spend between $1,422 and $3,621 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,546 up to $5,173. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,769 and $7,668. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Rhode Island
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 $1,568 and $3,201. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,733 to $3,963. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,349 and $4,866.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to RI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to Rhode Island. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in California, which usually means higher prices.
- Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from CA to RI
Transitioning from California to Rhode Island gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: California vs. Rhode Island
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and Rhode Island are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| California | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $1,195 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $81,370 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.6% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.99% |
- Rent is about 36% less expensive in Rhode Island than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Home prices in Rhode Island are about 39% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Rhode Island are roughly 11% lower than in California.
- Moving to Rhode Island costs about 25% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
- With an unemployment rate roughly 15% lower than California, Rhode Island offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
- Sales tax in Rhode Island is 19% lower than in California, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
- Income taxes are 55% lower in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island vs. California
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Rhode Island and California compare.
| Rhode Island | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,093,734 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56-44 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 50″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 14.58 | 28.43 |
- With a population roughly 97% smaller than California, Rhode Island gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses. Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
- The last presidential election saw both California and Rhode Island siding with the Democratic party.
- The average summer high in Rhode Island is 82°F, while California averages 87°F. With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
- In the coldest months, Rhode Island dips to about 19°F, colder than 59°F in California. Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
- Get ready for about 50 inches of rain each year in Rhode Island. That’s quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
- Each year, Rhode Island gets about 35 inches of snow, far more than the 7 inches you might be accustomed to in California. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
- Rhode Island boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 14.58 compared to 28.43. This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Rhode Island
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Rhode Island to California:
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Rhode Island |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Beautiful landscapes |
| Pleasant weather | Delicious seafood |
| Abundant recreational options | Rich history |
| High quality of life | Amazing beaches |
| Fresh and healthy foods | Short drives |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Rhode Island
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to Rhode Island:
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Rhode Island |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | High cost of living |
| Heavy tax burdens | Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
| Natural disasters | Smallest state |
| Terrible traffic | Cold winters |
| Strange laws | Dense population |
Other things to consider for your California to Rhode Island 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: In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Rhode Island moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Rhode Island, 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. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Rhode Island. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Rhode Island
Get excited to explore Rhode Island. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Rhode Island
- The Breakers
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
- Providence Children’s Museum
- John Brown House Museum
- Old Slater Mill
Parks in Rhode Island
- Water Place Park
- Roger Williams Park
- Goddard State Park
- India Point Park
- Fort Adams State Park
Sports teams in Rhode Island
- Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Brown Bears (NCAA)
Universities in Rhode Island
- Brown University
- University of Rhode Island
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Rhode Island College
- Johnson and Wales University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Rhode Island?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service California moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from California to Rhode Island?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from California to Rhode Island separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Rhode Island?
Many people are making the move from California to Rhode Island to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Rhode Island has to offer, like beautiful landscapes and delicious seafood.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Rhode Island?
Living in Rhode Island usually costs less than in California. Housing is more affordable in Rhode Island, with average rent about 36% less and home prices 39% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island?
Planning to move to Rhode Island? A single adult should aim for an income of around $81,736 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $3,527 for an individual, or $6,040 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Providence and Warwick usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in California: 7 movers offer AAA member savings; 7 provide military discounts; 7 have senior-discount programs; 2 list student deals; 2 advertise educator discounts; 4 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
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