Local moving companies in California
When relocating from California to Tampa, FL, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Tampa, FL.
- Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191663
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 3075110
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Tampa, FL
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Tampa, FL with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,294 – $5,098 | $1,307 – $3,354 | $1,469 – $2,875 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,843 – $7,724 | $2,414 – $4,691 | $1,498 – $3,423 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,951 – $12,197 | $3,166 – $6,323 | $2,030 – $4,119 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,661-mile move from California to Tampa, FL using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Tampa, FL
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Tampa, FL, you can expect to spend between $1,294 and $5,098. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,843 to $7,724 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $6,951 and $12,197.
Cost of moving containers from California to Tampa, FL
When moving from California to Tampa, FL, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,307 and $3,354. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,414 to $4,691. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,166 up to $6,323. 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 Tampa, FL
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 from California to Tampa, FL, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,469 and $2,875. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,498 and $3,423. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,030 and $4,119.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from California to Tampa, FL
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| All Star Movers & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rigo’s Moving Company Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Out of the 3,180 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how California movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Tampa, FL
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Tampa, FL is really like compared to California. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
Cost of living: California vs. Tampa, FL
| California | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,930 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $371,271 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $66,802 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 104 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 5.0% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
Tampa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Tampa and California is about the same, so you probably won’t need to adjust your budget for rent increases.
- On average, homes in Tampa cost 52% less than in California, making your move budget-friendly.
- The average income is about 27% lower in Tampa than in California. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
- Tampa’s unemployment rate is 7% lower than California, suggesting a healthier job market.
- In Florida, no income tax means more money stays in your pocket — an immediate financial boost for most people.
How life is different in Tampa from California
| Tampa | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 403,364 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 90ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 52ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 51″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 46.15 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Tampa voted Republican, while California was Democratic.
- Summer in Tampa usually hits around 90ºF, pretty similar to the 87ºF you’re used to in California. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
- During the coldest part of the year, Tampa gets down to 52ºF while California only dips to 59ºF. Relocating to Tampa means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
- Expect about 51 inches of rain each year in Tampa—compared to just 22 inches in California. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
- Tampa doesn’t get snow, while California sees around 7 inches annually. Relocating to Tampa means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Tampa has a higher crime rate than California with a crime index of 46.15 vs 28.43. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in Tampa
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Tampa has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in Tampa
- Glazer Children’s Museum
- Henry B. Plant Museum
- Tampa Bay History Center
- Museum of Science and Industry
- SS American Victory Mariners’ Memorial and Museum Ship
Parks in Tampa
- Lettuce Lake Regional Park
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
- Sparkman Wharf
- Ballast Point Park
- Picnic Island Park
Sports teams in Tampa
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
- Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Vipers (XFL)
- Tampa Bay Titans (TBL)
Universities in Tampa
- University of South Florida
- University of Tampa
Other considerations when moving to Tampa, FL
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Florida moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Florida, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Florida without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: 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.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Tampa take?
The time frame for a move from California to Tampa, FL, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in California, the longer it’ll take to reach Tampa. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Delivery from California to Tampa can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Tampa?
If you’re gearing up for a 2,661-mile move from California to Tampa, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Tampa, FL?
Summer in Tampa can reach highs of 90°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 52°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Tampa opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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