|
|
|
 rating
4.8 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
California to Colorado Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- When moving from California to Colorado, a two-bedroom move with professional movers is commonly $2,500–$5,600.*Estimates assume a 2–3 bedroom household with two–eight day delivery. Your costs and timelines vary by 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 Colorado 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
We review 4,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights
Who are the best movers to move from California to Colorado?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to Colorado 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 Colorado 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.
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from California to Colorado
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your California to Colorado move, since they’re built for the coordination a 1,118 mile journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from California to Colorado.
- 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 Colorado?
It costs between $2,500–$8,200 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to Colorado. 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 1,118-mile move from CA to
CO using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha curates a nationwide set of thousands of validated moving prices, with monthly updates reflecting seasonal patterns and evolving market conditions. Final charges may fluctuate due to move size, optional services, access/parking constraints, fuel rates, and booking dates. For the best read on cost, gather multiple mover quotes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
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.
PODS
Orcutt, CA
›
Platteville, CO
Studio apartment
Jan 03, 2026
$1,949
Safeway Moving
Larkfield-Wikiup, CA
›
Frisco, CO
3 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
$3,741
American Van Lines
Ashland, CA
›
Air Force Academy, CO
3 Bedrooms
Dec 22, 2025
$4,226
North American Van Lines
Beaumont, CA
›
Clifton, CO
4 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
$6,671
1-800-Pack-Rat
Gustine, CA
›
Lyons, CO
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 07, 2025
$1,715
Budget Truck Rental
Camp Pendleton North, CA
›
Pierce, CO
2 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
$972
United Van Lines
Culver City, CA
›
Blue Sky, CO
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 16, 2025
$9,771
Roadway Moving
Corona, CA
›
Superior, CO
3 Bedrooms
Nov 08, 2025
$4,565
Joyce Van Lines
El Cajon, CA
›
Log Lane Village, CO
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 23, 2025
$3,634
Allied Van Lines
Gardena, CA
›
Denver, CO
2 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
$4,355
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to Colorado?
Moving from California to Colorado can cost anywhere from $1,130–$7,067, but most people pay around $2,486–$5,626 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,130 – $4,436 | $802 – $1,917 | $691 – $1,264 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,486 – $5,660 | $1,407 – $3,018 | $696 – $1,579 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,235 – $8,245 | $2,081 – $3,750 | $912 – $1,922 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,118-mile move from CA to CO using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 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 $2,486 – $5,660 to hire a moving company to move you from California to Colorado. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,130 – $4,436
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,486 – $5,660
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,235 – $8,245
How much do moving containers cost from California to Colorado?
Using a moving container from California to Colorado costs, on average, $1,407 – $3,018. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $802 – $1,917
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,407 – $3,018
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,081 – $3,750
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 Colorado will costs you between $696 – $1,579, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $691 – $1,264
- 2–3 bedrooms: $696 – $1,579
- 4+ bedrooms: $912 – $1,922
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 Colorado, 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 CO?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Colorado — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $1,594 in Colorado, and average home values go from $771,057 to $541,072.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 91), unemployment (5.4% vs. 4.1%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 7.81%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 5.49%). 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 | Colorado | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $1,594 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $541,072 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $87,598 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 91 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.1% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 7.81% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.49% |
Will rent be more expensive in Colorado?
Rent is about 14% lower in Colorado than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $1,594
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 30% lower in Colorado than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $541,072
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in California and Colorado.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $87,598
Is the overall cost of living higher in Colorado?
The cost of living is 32% lower in Colorado than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 91
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 10% lower in Colorado than in California.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 7.81%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 59% lower in Colorado than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 5.49%
How is daily life different in Colorado compared to California?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Colorado | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,877,610 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 54-46 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 16″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 63″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 36.4 | 28.43 |
Will Colorado feel more crowded than California?
Colorado is about 85% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Colorado voted Democrat while California voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (86°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Colorado is colder on average (13°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Colorado?
Rain: Colorado gets less rain (16″ vs. 22″).
Snow: Colorado gets more snow (63 inches vs. 7 inches).
Is Colorado safer than California?
Colorado has a higher crime index than California (36.4 vs. 28.43). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Colorado?
Museums in Colorado
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Argo Mill and Tunnel
- Rosemount Museum
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Parks in Colorado
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Sports teams in Colorado
- Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Denver Barbarians (RSL)
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Rockies (MLB)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
Universities in Colorado
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Colorado State University
- University of Denver
- United States Air Force Academy
- University of Colorado Denver
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your California to Colorado 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: The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Colorado moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Colorado 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance for free. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you’re hiring or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Colorado?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Colorado?
The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Colorado moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Colorado?
Colorado does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you’re hiring or explore 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.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
California Moving Services
Frequently Traveled California Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All 
Hide All
