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California to Arkansas Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- For a move from California to Arkansas, a two-bedroom home with professional movers typically costs $3,100–$5,500.*Estimates reflect a 2–3 bedroom move and a five–16 day delivery window. Actual cost and timing depend on home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from California to Arkansas is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
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Who are the best movers to move from California to Arkansas?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to Arkansas is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from California to Arkansas below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from California to Arkansas
For a move from California to Arkansas, we generally recommend hiring a professional interstate mover—they’re better equipped for the complex logistics that can come with a 1,799 mile relocation. Based on a review of 3,180 movers, moveBuddha found 2,642 (83%) that perform interstate moves. Leveraging our thorough rating methodology, our experts curated the best options to manage your relocation from California to Arkansas.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from California to Arkansas?
It costs between $3,100–$9,800 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to Arkansas. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,799-mile move from CA to
AR using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 30, 2026.
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.
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Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Mayzlin Relocation
Fontana, CA
›
Sheridan, AR
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 25, 2025
$3,425
Colonial Van Lines
Downey, CA
›
Altheimer, AR
2 Bedrooms
Dec 23, 2025
$3,622
Allied Van Lines
Modesto, CA
›
Plainview, AR
2 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
$5,800
Safeway Moving
French Valley, CA
›
Jennette, AR
2 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
$4,291
1-800-Pack-Rat
Simi Valley, CA
›
Ulm, AR
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 05, 2025
$2,200
Joyce Van Lines
Ojai, CA
›
Winslow, AR
3 Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
$5,302
Roadway Moving
Woodlands, CA
›
Trumann, AR
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 17, 2025
$3,701
American Van Lines
Holtville, CA
›
Perry, AR
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 31, 2025
$3,383
United Van Lines
Lemon Grove, CA
›
Central City, AR
4 Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
$6,706
PODS
San Leandro, CA
›
Oak Grove Heights, AR
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
$4,600
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to Arkansas?
Moving from California to Arkansas can cost anywhere from $1,138–$8,699, but most people pay around $3,050–$5,454 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,138 – $4,710 | $983 – $2,604 | $986 – $1,840 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,050 – $7,093 | $1,899 – $3,847 | $1,056 – $2,326 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,531 – $9,840 | $2,519 – $5,272 | $1,331 – $2,652 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,799-mile move from CA to AR using moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 30, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $3,050 – $7,093 to hire a moving company to move you from California to Arkansas. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,138 – $4,710
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,050 – $7,093
- 4+ bedrooms: $5,531 – $9,840
How much do moving containers cost from California to Arkansas?
Using a moving container from California to Arkansas costs, on average, $1,899 – $3,847. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $983 – $2,604
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,899 – $3,847
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,519 – $5,272
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from California to Arkansas will costs you between $1,056 – $2,326, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $986 – $1,840
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,056 – $2,326
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,331 – $2,652
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from California to Arkansas, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to AR?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Arkansas — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $868 in Arkansas, and average home values go from $771,057 to $208,078.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 90), unemployment (5.4% vs. 2.3%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 9.51%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 2.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| 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% |
Will rent be more expensive in Arkansas?
Rent is about 53% lower in Arkansas than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $868
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 73% lower in Arkansas than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $208,078
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 39% lower in Arkansas than in California.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $56,335
Is the overall cost of living higher in Arkansas?
The cost of living is 33% lower in Arkansas than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 90
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 10% higher in Arkansas than in California.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 9.51%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 85% lower in Arkansas than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 2.0%
How is daily life different in Arkansas compared to California?
Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size.
| 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 |
Will Arkansas feel more crowded than California?
Arkansas is about 92% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Arkansas voted Republican while California voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (91°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Arkansas is colder on average (28°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Arkansas?
Rain: Arkansas gets more rain (50″ vs. 22″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (4 inches vs. 7 inches).
Is Arkansas safer than California?
Arkansas has a higher crime index than California (30.97 vs. 28.43). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Arkansas?
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
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
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.
- 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.
- State regulator: You can verify a Arkansas moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- 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.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance 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.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Arkansas?
Some cities expect a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Arkansas?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Arkansas moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Arkansas?
You don’t need a moving permit in Arkansas.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
Interstate movers provide basic insurance free of charge. 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.
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.
Make moving day a breeze with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
California Moving Services
Frequently Traveled California Routes
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