How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to AR move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 370 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Arkansas?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from California
to Arkansas, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,261 – $4,769 |
$1,079 – $2,611 |
$1,008 – $1,980 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,212 – $6,566 |
$1,867 – $3,743 |
$1,124 – $2,332 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,600 – $9,963 |
$2,500 – $4,927 |
$1,334 – $2,826 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,799-mile relocation from CA to
AR, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from California to Arkansas
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from California to Arkansas, you’ll likely pay between
$1,261
and $4,769.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$3,212 and $6,566
for the same journey (CA to AR).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,600
to $9,963.
Cost of moving containers from California to Arkansas
When you’re heading from California to Arkansas, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $1,079 and
$2,611. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,867 and
$3,743. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,500
to $4,927. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from California easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Arkansas
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
$1,008
to $1,980.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,124
to $2,332, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from California to Arkansas costs around
$1,334 to
$2,826.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to AR
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to Arkansas. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in California when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from CA to AR
If you’re moving to Arkansas from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: California vs. Arkansas
Understanding how costs compare between California and Arkansas can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
California |
Arkansas |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$868 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$56,335 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
9.51% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
2.0% |
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Rent in Arkansas is around 53% less than in California, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Arkansas are about 73% lower than in California. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Arkansas are about 39% lower than in California.
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The cost of living in Arkansas is about 33% lower than in California. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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Arkansas boasts an unemployment rate about 57% lower than California. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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Sales taxes are 10% higher in Arkansas than in California. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in Arkansas are 85% lower than in California. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Arkansas vs. California
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Arkansas and California line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Arkansas |
California |
| Population |
3,067,732 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
28ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
30.97 |
28.43 |
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The population of Arkansas is approximately 92% lower than the population of California.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential election, Arkansas voted Republican, while California went Democratic.
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In Arkansas, summer highs are around 91°F, close to 87°F in California.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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In the coldest months, Arkansas sees lows of 28°F compared to 59°F in California.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
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Get ready for about 50 inches of rain each year in Arkansas, which is quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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In Arkansas, it snows about 4 inches annually while California gets 7 inches.
With snowfall being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
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Arkansas has a higher crime rate than California, with a crime index of 30.97 compared to 28.43.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Arkansas
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Arkansas and California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Arkansas |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Pleasant weather |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant recreational options |
Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| High quality of life |
Fantastic weather |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Arkansas
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving California for Arkansas:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Arkansas |
| High cost of living |
High crime rate |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Natural disasters |
Poor education |
| Terrible traffic |
Pervasive poverty |
| Strange laws |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your California to Arkansas move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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State licensing:
Before providing in-state household goods relocation services, Arkansas moving companies must be issued an Intrastate Authority Permit from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Arkansas moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Arkansas, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Arkansas right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection, offered by movers at no extra cost, is the most economical option, albeit with minimal coverage. The mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the reimbursement would be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure full coverage of your items’ value, explore alternative options with your moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
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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 Arkansas
While you’re in Arkansas, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Arkansas
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Ozark Folk Center State Park
- Daisy Airgun Museum
- Mid-America Science Museum
Parks in Arkansas
- Riverfront Park
- Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
- Craighead Forest Park
- Cadron Settlement Park
- Maumelle Park
Sports teams in Arkansas
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
Universities in Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Arkansas
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Arkansas?
Do movers transport your car from California to Arkansas?
What are the benefits of moving from California to Arkansas?
An increasing number of people are relocating from California to Arkansas to enjoy all the great benefits Arkansas provides, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Arkansas?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 53% less and home prices 73% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 80% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arkansas?
Thinking of moving to Arkansas on your own? You’ll want to earn around $56,231 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,422 per month, or around $5,241 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In California, 7 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 7 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 7 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 2 moving companies.
Educators and teachers get access to discounts from 2 movers.
Law enforcement personnel qualify for special rates with 4 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When moving from California to Arkansas, you’ll likely pay between $3,212–$6,566 with professional movers, roughly
$2,805 for a moving container, and about
$1,728
for a rental truck.
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