How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to KY move
After studying pricing from 370 California movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Kentucky?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Kentucky.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,285 – $5,221 |
$1,163 – $3,158 |
$1,209 – $2,508 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,581 – $7,567 |
$2,068 – $4,639 |
$1,378 – $2,840 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,727 – $11,700 |
$2,989 – $6,168 |
$1,791 – $3,589 |
*Estimated costs for a 2,306-mile move from CA to
KY are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to Kentucky
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Kentucky will cost between
$1,285 and
$5,221.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to KY will
range from $3,581 to
$7,567, and a large move from California
to Kentucky will cost from $6,727
to $11,700.
Cost of moving containers from California to Kentucky
If you’re moving from California to Kentucky,
expect to pay between $1,163
and $3,158 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$2,068 up to
$4,639.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,989 and
$6,168. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Kentucky
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$1,209 and
$2,508.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,378
and $2,840. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,791 up to
$3,589 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to KY
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to Kentucky. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in California is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from CA to KY
A relocation from California to Kentucky comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: California vs. Kentucky
Comparing expenses in California and Kentucky shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
California |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
4.0% |
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Expect to pay around 51% less in rent in Kentucky than in California, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 72% lower in Kentucky than in California.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Kentucky are about 35% lower than in California.
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Living in Kentucky is about 31% cheaper than California. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate about 7% lower than California, Kentucky boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales tax in Kentucky is 31% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Kentucky can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 70% lower in Kentucky than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. California
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Kentucky stacks up against California across important lifestyle factors:
|
Kentucky |
California |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 88% smaller than California, Kentucky offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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In the most recent presidential election, Kentucky leaned Republican, while California went with Democratic.
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In Kentucky, summer highs hover around 87°F, while California sits at 87°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Kentucky drops to about 24°F while California only reaches 59°F.
Moving to Kentucky with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
-
Expect about 48 inches of rain each year in Kentucky, a noticeable difference from the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
In Kentucky, you’ll get about 11 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, California averages around 7 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
Kentucky has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 16.63 vs. 28.43.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Kentucky
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Kentucky versus California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Pleasant weather |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| Abundant recreational options |
Delicious food and drink |
| High quality of life |
Horse racing |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Kentucky
Moving from California to Kentucky comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Low diversity |
| Natural disasters |
Poor air quality |
| Terrible traffic |
Poor infrastructure |
| Strange laws |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your California to Kentucky move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
-
State licensing:
Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers.
Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each.
The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Kentucky moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Kentucky without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Kentucky
Get ready to discover all that Kentucky has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Kentucky
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Ark Encounter
- National Corvette Museum
- The National Quilt Museum
Parks in Kentucky
- Smothers Park
- Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Red River Gorge Geological Area
- Freeman Lake Park
Sports teams in Kentucky
- Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
- Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)
Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Georgetown College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from California to Kentucky?
What are the benefits of moving from California to Kentucky?
The main reasons people are moving from California to Kentucky are the amazing upsides of living in Kentucky, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Kentucky?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 51% less and home prices 72% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 70% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
You should make approximately $59,905 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Kentucky.
The cost of living in Kentucky is about $2,600 per month for an individual and $4,876 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Louisville and Lexington tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Some movers in California provide budget-friendly deals.
In California, 7 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 7 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 7 movers.
Student savings are available through 2 moving providers.
Teacher and educator discounts can be found with 2 movers.
Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 4 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When moving from California to Kentucky, expect to spend between
$3,581–$7,567 if using professional movers, about
$3,353 for a moving container, and around
$2,109
for a rental truck.
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