How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to CO move
Using rate data from 370 California movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Colorado?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to Colorado with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,121 – $4,866 |
$845 – $2,022 |
$700 – $1,345 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,467 – $6,208 |
$1,469 – $2,936 |
$742 – $1,536 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,288 – $8,030 |
$2,127 – $3,876 |
$886 – $1,890 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,118-mile move from CA to
CO, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to Colorado
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Colorado,
you can expect to spend between $1,121
and $4,866.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,467 to
$6,208 on the same route
(CA to CO). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to Colorado typically runs between
$4,288 and
$8,030.
Cost of moving containers from California to Colorado
Moving from California to Colorado? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $845 and
$2,022. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,469 to
$2,936. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,127 up to
$3,876. 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 Colorado
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
$700 and
$1,345.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$742 and
$1,536.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $886 and
$1,890.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to CO
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Colorado 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.
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When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from CA to CO
Moving between California and Colorado involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. Colorado
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and Colorado. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
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% |
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Rent in Colorado is about 14% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Colorado are roughly 30% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both California and Colorado.
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Moving to Colorado is about 32% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Colorado has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 24%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 10% lower in Colorado compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in Colorado are 59% 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.
How life is different in Colorado vs. California
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Colorado differs from California in these areas.
|
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 |
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With a population about 85% smaller than California, Colorado 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, Colorado voted Democrat and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Colorado average 86°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 Colorado can dip to 13°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.
-
In Colorado, you’ll see about 16 inches of rain each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In Colorado, it snows about 63 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.
-
Colorado reports a higher crime rate than California, with a crime index of 36.4 versus 28.43.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Colorado
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Colorado stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Colorado |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Pleasant weather |
Awesome snow recreational activities |
| Abundant recreational options |
Quality healthcare |
| High quality of life |
High quality of life |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Colorado
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to Colorado, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Colorado |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
High cost of living |
| Natural disasters |
Altitude sickness |
| Terrible traffic |
Overcrowding |
| Strange laws |
Bad traffic |
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.
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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.
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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.
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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. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Colorado right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” 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.
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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.
Things to do in Colorado
Get ready to discover Colorado. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Colorado?
Do movers transport your car from California to Colorado?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from California to Colorado
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Colorado?
More and more folks are relocating from California to Colorado to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and awesome snow recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Colorado?
Living in Colorado usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Colorado,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 30% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Colorado, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Colorado?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Colorado, aim for an income of around $85,853 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $4,016 if you’re flying solo, or $8,875 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Castle Pines North and Carbonate usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in California.
There are 7 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 7 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 2 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 4 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When planning a move from California to Colorado, professional movers typically run between
$2,467 and $6,208, a moving container averages about
$2,202, and a rental truck is around
$1,139.
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