How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to KS move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 370 California moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
-
Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
-
Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Kansas?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Kansas.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,156 – $4,612 |
$998 – $2,408 |
$916 – $1,722 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,733 – $6,452 |
$1,799 – $3,585 |
$982 – $2,049 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,068 – $9,034 |
$2,380 – $4,696 |
$1,248 – $2,529 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,538-mile move from CA to
KS using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from California to Kansas
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Kansas,
you can expect prices to land between $1,156
and $4,612.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,733 to
$6,452 for the trip from CA
to KS. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,068 and
$9,034.
Cost of moving containers from California to Kansas
Moving containers from California to Kansas
will cost you $998 to
$2,408 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,799
to $3,585. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,380 to
$4,696.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Kansas
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$916
and $1,722
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $982
to $2,049.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,248
to $2,529.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to KS
Several factors influence the cost of moving from California to Kansas. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
-
Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in California generally comes with a higher price tag.
-
DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from CA to KS
Making the move from California to Kansas means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: California vs. Kansas
A clear look at the cost differences between California and Kansas helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
California |
Kansas |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$986 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$229,012 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$69,747 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
87 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
8.65% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
5.7% |
-
You’ll pay about 47% less in rent in Kansas compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
-
Home prices in Kansas are around 70% lower than in California. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
-
Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 24% lower Kansas than in California.
-
Living in Kansas costs about 35% less than in California. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
-
With an unemployment rate around 37% lower than California, Kansas offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
-
No need to worry about sales tax since rates are similar in California and Kansas.
-
Income taxes in Kansas are 57% lower than in California. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Kansas vs. California
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Kansas and California compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Kansas |
California |
| Population |
2,940,546 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 57.1%-41.1 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
33″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
15″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
24.07 |
28.43 |
-
The population of Kansas is about 92% smaller than that of California.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
-
In the latest presidential election, Kansas voted Republican, while California chose Democratic.
-
Summer highs average 91°F in Kansas, compared to 87°F in California.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, Kansas reaches lows near 19°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
-
You can expect about 33 inches of annual rainfall in Kansas versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Each year, Kansas gets about 15 inches of snow, while California sees only 7 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
-
Moving to Kansas means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 24.07 versus California’s 28.43, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Kansas
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Kansas compared to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Kansas |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Delicious barbecue |
| Pleasant weather |
Low cost housing |
| Abundant recreational options |
Cheap living |
| High quality of life |
Four season living |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Ample economic opportunity |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Kansas
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to Kansas:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Kansas |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Dull landscape |
| Natural disasters |
High taxes |
| Terrible traffic |
Lack of public transportation |
| Strange laws |
Remote small-town lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your California to Kansas move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
State licensing:
In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers.
The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Kansas moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Kansas, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Kansas right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Kansas
You’ll have plenty to explore in Kansas! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Kansas
- Evel Knievel Museum
- Old Cowtown Museum
- Boot Hill Museum
- Exploration Place
- Flint Hills Discovery Center
Parks in Kansas
- Ernie Miller Nature Center
- Coronado Heights
- Lewis & Clark Historic Park at Kaw Point
- Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa
- Gezer Park
Sports teams in Kansas
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
- Wichita Thunder (ECHL)
- Wichita Wind Surge (Double-A Central)
- Kansas Jayhawks (NCAA)
- Kansas State Wildcats (NCAA)
Universities in Kansas
- University of Kansas
- Kansas State University
- Wichita State University
- Fort Hays State University
- Emporia State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Kansas?
Do movers transport your car from California to Kansas?
What are the benefits of moving from California to Kansas?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave California for Kansas, drawn by advantages like delicious barbecue and low cost housing that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Kansas?
Living in Kansas usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Kansas,
with average rent about 47% less and home prices 70% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Kansas, 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 Kansas?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Kansas, you should aim to make around $61,447.
On average, expect to spend about $2,433 per month, or $5,464 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Wichita and Overland Park generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Many movers in California publish special-rate programs:
7 honor AAA member discounts;
7 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
2 provide student pricing;
2 have educator discounts;
4 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular 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
For a move from California to Kansas, budget between $2,733–$6,452 for full-service movers, around
$2,692 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,515
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
