How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to FL 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 Florida?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to Florida with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,270 – $5,483 |
$1,355 – $3,308 |
$1,423 – $2,788 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,528 – $7,441 |
$2,311 – $5,065 |
$1,590 – $3,352 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,706 – $11,410 |
$3,186 – $6,967 |
$2,008 – $3,910 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 2,699-mile move from CA to
FL, 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 Florida
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Florida,
you can expect to spend between $1,270
and $5,483.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,528 to
$7,441 on the same route
(CA to FL). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to Florida typically runs between
$6,706 and
$11,410.
Cost of moving containers from California to Florida
Moving from California to Florida? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $1,355 and
$3,308. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $2,311 to
$5,065. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,186 up to
$6,967. 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 Florida
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
$1,423 and
$2,788.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$1,590 and
$3,352.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $2,008 and
$3,910.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to FL
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Florida 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 FL
Moving between California and Florida involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. Florida
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and Florida. 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 |
Florida |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,444 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$67,917 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
102 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
7.08% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
0.0% |
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Rent in Florida is about 22% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Florida are roughly 49% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Florida are about 26% lower than in California.
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Moving to Florida is about 24% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Florida has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 46%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 18% lower in Florida compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to California. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Florida 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 Florida differs from California in these areas.
|
Florida |
California |
| Population |
22,610,726 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-48 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
49ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
55″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
21.39 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 42% smaller than California, Florida 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.
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In the last presidential election, Florida voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
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Summer highs in Florida average 91°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 Florida can dip to 49°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.
-
Expect about 55 inches of rain each year in Florida — a big shift from the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
Florida doesn’t get snow, while California sees around 7 inches annually.
Relocating to Florida means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
-
Florida offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 21.39 versus 28.43.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Florida
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Florida stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Florida |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Fantastic weather |
| Pleasant weather |
Abundant water recreational activities |
| Abundant recreational options |
Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality of life |
World-leading entertainment |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Beautiful flora and fauna |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Florida
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to Florida, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Florida |
| High cost of living |
High cost of living |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Poor healthcare |
| Natural disasters |
Natural disasters |
| Terrible traffic |
Heat and humidity |
| Strange laws |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your California to Florida 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:
Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Florida moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Florida does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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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 Florida 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. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
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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 Florida
Get ready to discover Florida. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Florida
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum
Parks in Florida
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
Sports teams in Florida
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
Universities in Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Florida?
Do movers transport your car from California to Florida?
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 Florida
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Florida?
More and more folks are relocating from California to Florida to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as fantastic weather and abundant water recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Florida?
Living in Florida usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Florida,
with average rent about 22% less and home prices 49% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Florida, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Florida?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Florida, aim for an income of around $61,933 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,010 if you’re flying solo, or $7,388 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Jacksonville and Miami 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 Florida, professional movers typically run between
$3,528 and $7,441, a moving container averages about
$3,688, and a rental truck is around
$2,471.
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