Best Movers From California to Virginia (2025 Cost Data)

1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
3. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
4. Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
5. Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from California to Virginia

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Virginia, you can expect to spend between $1,222 and $5,368. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,580 to $7,363 on the same route (CA to VA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Virginia typically runs between $7,299 and $11,282.

Cost of moving containers from California to Virginia

Moving from California to Virginia? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,386 and $3,416. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,388 to $5,026. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,126 up to $6,641. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Virginia

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 $1,449 and $2,892. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,555 and $3,377. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,023 and $4,061.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to VA

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

• How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
• When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
• Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.

• Rent in Virginia is about 22% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
• Home prices in Virginia are roughly 49% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
• You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both California and Virginia.
• Moving to Virginia is about 25% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
• Virginia has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 46%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
• Sales tax is 34% lower in Virginia compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
• Income taxes in Virginia are 57% lower than in California. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.

• With a population about 78% smaller than California, Virginia offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
• In the last presidential election, both California and Virginia voted Democratic.
• Summer highs in Virginia average 87°F, almost the same as 87°F in California. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
• Winter in Virginia can dip to 25°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California. Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
• Expect about 44 inches of rain each year in Virginia — a big shift from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
• In Virginia, it snows about 14 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
• Virginia offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 19.3 versus 28.43. You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.

Other things to consider for your California to Virginia move

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
• Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
• State licensing: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
• State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Virginia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
• Moving permits: Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
• Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Virginia right on time. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
• Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Museums in Virginia

• Colonial Williamsburg
• Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
• Historic Jamestowne
• Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
• Military Aviation Museum

Parks in Virginia

• Mill Mountain Star & Park
• Morven Park
• The Mariners’ Museum & Park
• Great Falls Park
• Leesylvania State Park

Sports teams in Virginia

• Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
• Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
• Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
• Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
• Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)

Universities in Virginia

• University of Virginia
• Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
• George Mason University
• Virginia Commonwealth University
• College of William & Mary