How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to CA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 84 Michigan moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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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 Michigan to California?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to California.
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 |
$1,251 – $5,339 |
$1,180 – $3,087 |
$1,281 – $2,402 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,653 – $7,551 |
$2,098 – $4,628 |
$1,472 – $2,951 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,865 – $12,036 |
$3,128 – $6,033 |
$1,806 – $3,839 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,404-mile move from MI to
CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 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 Michigan to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to California typically costs between
$1,251 and
$5,339.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,653
and $7,551
when moving from MI to CA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to California,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,865
up to $12,036.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to California
If you’re relocating from Michigan to California,
you’ll typically spend between $1,180
and $3,087 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,098 up to
$4,628.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,128 and
$6,033. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to California
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
$1,281 and
$2,402.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,472 to
$2,951.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,806 and
$3,839.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to CA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Michigan to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Michigan, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from MI to CA
Transitioning from Michigan to California gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. California
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Michigan and California are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Michigan |
California |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
13.3% |
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Rent is about 79% more expensive in California than in Michigan. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in California are roughly 214% higher than in Michigan.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 34% more in California than in Michigan. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to California means you’ll be spending 46% more than you did in Michigan. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment in California is about 15% higher than in Michigan. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax in California runs 45% higher than in Michigan, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 213% higher in California compared to Michigan. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in California vs. Michigan
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 California and Michigan compare.
|
California |
Michigan |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
19.98 |
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If you’re moving from Michigan to California, you’ll find California has about 289% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Michigan supported Republican.
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The average summer high in California is 87°F compared to 81°F in Michigan.
A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
-
In winter, California drops only to 59°F, milder than 14°F in Michigan.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
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In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches.
Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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California has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 19.98.
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 Michigan vs. California
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in California to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in California |
| Scenic beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Good higher education |
Pleasant weather |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundant recreational options |
| Low cost of living |
High quality of life |
| Beautiful lakes |
Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. California
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Michigan to California:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in California |
| Cold snowy winters |
High cost of living |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Heavy tax burdens |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Natural disasters |
| Expensive education |
Terrible traffic |
| Thick accents |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to California 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.
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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 has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in California, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 California. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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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 California
Get excited to explore California. Don’t miss these top spots 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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to California?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to California?
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
Michigan to
California
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to California?
Many people are making the move from Michigan to California to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in California has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or California?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 44% less and home prices 68% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
Planning to move to California? A single adult should aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $5,276 for an individual, or $10,220 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Michigan:
1 movers offer AAA member savings;
6 provide military discounts;
7 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Michigan to California, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,653 to
$7,551, roughly
$3,363 for a container move, and close to
$2,211
for a rental truck.
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