Top-rated local movers that handle Irvine to Lafayette moves
When planning a move from Irvine to Lafayette, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 86 local movers in Irvine who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.
Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Irvine to Lafayette.
- Meathead Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Maison Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Best California Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190726
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 76628
Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc , College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County , Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0182466
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1836576
Alternate Names: NorthStar Moving Corporation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189603
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 649215
Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc , Richards Moving Company , Orange County Storage Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage , An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
How much does it cost to move from Irvine to Lafayette?
Movers in California charge $128 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,251 – $4,884 | $1,025 – $2,530 | $1,029 – $1,941 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,027 – $7,289 | $1,867 – $3,774 | $1,124 – $2,332 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,801 – $9,955 | $2,625 – $5,065 | $1,431 – $2,768 |
Cost to hire movers from Irvine to Lafayette
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Irvine to Lafayette, you can expect to spend between $1,251 and $4,884. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,027 to $7,289 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Irvine to Lafayette typically runs between $5,801 and $9,955.
Cost of moving containers from Irvine to Lafayette
When moving from Irvine to Lafayette, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,025 and $2,530. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,867 to $3,774. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,625 up to $5,065. 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 Irvine to Lafayette
Renting a moving truck in Irvine is usually your cheapest option to get to Lafayette. 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 $1,029 and $1,941. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,124 and $2,332. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,431 and $2,768.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors that impact moving costs from Irvine to Lafayette
The cost of Irvine movers will depend on:
- The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,359, but larger homes can run up to $8,947.
- Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Irvine.
- Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,029–$2,477) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.
What to know before moving from Irvine to Lafayette
Many movers find Lafayette easier on the wallet than Irvine – roughly 81% less for singles and 77% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,785 for one person in Lafayette versus $9,167 in Irvine. For a family of four, it’s $4,208 compared with $18,000.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Irvine | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,719 | $1,200 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,575 | $1,725 |
| Average home value | $1,561,760 | $214,264 |
| Average income (per capita) | $114,027 | $59,490 |
| Cost of living (single) | $9,167 | $1,785 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $18,000 | $4,208 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 5.8% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 9.45% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.25% |
- Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 29% lower in Lafayette than in Irvine, giving you more disposable income monthly.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 86% lower in Lafayette than in Irvine.
- It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 48% less in Lafayette than in Irvine.
- Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Lafayette, where the cost of living for a single person is 81% less than in Irvine.
- Moving to Lafayette could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 77% less than in Irvine.
- The unemployment rate in Lafayette is 7% higher compared to Irvine, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
- Sales taxes are 22% higher in Lafayette than in Irvine. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 68% lower in Louisiana compared to California. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.
The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Irvine with Lafayette:
| Living Expense | Irvine | Lafayette |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $200.96 | $244.46 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.33 | $52.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.50 | $4.35 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.59 | $2.99 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $17.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $76.11 |
| Gym membership | $54.17 | $61.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Irvine than in Lafayette, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Irvine than in Lafayette.
- Eggs cost more in Irvine than in Lafayette.
- Bread is more expensive in Irvine than in Lafayette.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Irvine than in Lafayette.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Irvine than in Lafayette.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Irvine than in Lafayette.
How life is different in Irvine vs. Lafayette
| Irvine | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 307,670 | 121,374 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 43 | 42 |
| Bike friendliness score | 69 | 47 |
| Crime index | 31.01 | 45.75 |
| Safety index | 68.99 | 54.25 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Lafayette’s population is about 61% less than Irvine.
- Lafayette’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Irvine’s score of 4.
- Lafayette and Irvine are similarly walkable.
- Lafayette has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Irvine, which has a score of 69.
- Lafayette’s crime rate is higher than Irvine with a score of 45.75 compared to Irvine’s 31.01. This means that Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Irvine neighborhoods are safer than 31.01%.
- Lafayette is considered to be less safe than Irvine with a score of 54.25 vs Irvine’s 68.99.
- Air quality in Lafayette is Good, and in Irvine it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Irvine to Lafayette move
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Louisiana moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: While Louisiana doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Lafayette smoothly. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Lafayette
Now that you’ve chosen The Hub City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Lafayette to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Saint Streets
- Freetown-Port Rico
- Downtown Lafayette
- Scott
- Youngsville
Best neighborhoods for families
- Youngsville
- Erath
- Maurice
- Broussard
- Milton
- Scott
- Cade
Things to do in Lafayette
After getting comfortable in your new Louisiana home, it’s time to see what Lafayette is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Lafayette offers cultural landmarks like the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children’s Museum of Acadiana, and Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Irvine to Lafayette?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Irvine to Lafayette are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Irvine are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Irvine to Lafayette?
Because spring and fall moves from Irvine to Lafayette are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Irvine to Lafayette take?
A move of 1,747 miles from Irvine, CA to Lafayette, generally takes four to 15 days. Movers in Irvine sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Lafayette is a good fallback if you need extra time.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Irvine?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 2 extend savings to senior citizens.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Which movers in Irvine offer piano or antique moving?
Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 66 movers in Irvine have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 55 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.
Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.
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