How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to ID 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 Idaho?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to Idaho with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,175 – $4,390 |
$805 – $1,788 |
$602 – $1,173 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,224 – $5,634 |
$1,348 – $2,752 |
$626 – $1,301 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,752 – $7,795 |
$1,908 – $3,787 |
$832 – $1,597 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 909-mile move from CA to
ID, 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 Idaho
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Idaho,
you can expect to spend between $1,175
and $4,390.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,224 to
$5,634 on the same route
(CA to ID). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to Idaho typically runs between
$3,752 and
$7,795.
Cost of moving containers from California to Idaho
Moving from California to Idaho? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $805 and
$1,788. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,348 to
$2,752. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,908 up to
$3,787. 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 Idaho
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
$602 and
$1,173.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$626 and
$1,301.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $832 and
$1,597.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to ID
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Idaho 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 ID
Moving between California and Idaho involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. Idaho
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and Idaho. 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 |
Idaho |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,061 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$451,520 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$70,214 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
106 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.03% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
5.8% |
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Rent in Idaho is about 43% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Idaho are roughly 41% 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 Idaho are about 24% lower than in California.
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Moving to Idaho is about 21% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Idaho has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 31%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 31% lower in Idaho compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in Idaho are 56% 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 Idaho 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 Idaho differs from California in these areas.
|
Idaho |
California |
| Population |
1,964,726 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 70-30 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
18″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
11.68 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 95% smaller than California, Idaho 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, Idaho voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Idaho average 85°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 Idaho can dip to 17°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 Idaho, you’ll get about 18 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 22 inches you’ve been used to in California.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In Idaho, it snows about 47 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.
-
Idaho offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 11.68 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. Idaho
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Idaho stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Idaho |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Pleasant weather |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant recreational options |
High quality of life |
| High quality of life |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Idaho
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to Idaho, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Idaho |
| High cost of living |
Low diversity |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Harsh winters |
| Natural disasters |
Political dominance |
| Terrible traffic |
Isolation |
| Strange laws |
Competitive housing |
Other things to consider for your California to Idaho 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.
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State licensing:
In Idaho, in-state movers are regulated by and must register with the Idaho Transportation Department.
In cases of unresolvable disputes with local movers, they may help. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Idaho moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
Idaho 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 Idaho 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 cost-free Released Value Protection for minimal coverage, provided by movers at no extra charge. With liability capped at 60 cents per pound per article, consider alternative coverage options from your selected moving company or explore third-party insurance for full value protection.
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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 Idaho
Get ready to discover Idaho. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Idaho
- Museum of Clean
- Warhawk Air Museum
- Museum of Idaho
- Legacy Flight Museum
- Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Education Center
Parks in Idaho
- Harriman State Park
- Sawtooth Wilderness Area
- Indian Creek Park
- McEuen Park
- Thousand Springs State Park
Sports teams in Idaho
- Idaho Steelheads (ECHL)
- Boise State Broncos (NCAA)
- Idaho State Bengals (NCAA)
- Idaho Vandals Big Sky (NCAA)
Universities in Idaho
- University of Idaho
- Boise State University
- Brigham Young University-Idaho
- Idaho State University
- Northwest Nazarene University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Idaho?
Do movers transport your car from California to Idaho?
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 Idaho
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Idaho?
More and more folks are relocating from California to Idaho to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Idaho?
Living in Idaho usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Idaho,
with average rent about 43% less and home prices 41% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Idaho, 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 Idaho?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Idaho, aim for an income of around $82,425 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,700 if you’re flying solo, or $7,442 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Boise and Meridian 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 Idaho, professional movers typically run between
$2,224 and $5,634, a moving container averages about
$2,050, and a rental truck is around
$963.
Fact Checked by:
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