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California to Massachusetts Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- For a move from California to Massachusetts, a two-bedroom home with professional movers typically costs $3,900–$7,100.*Estimates reflect a 2–3 bedroom move and a seven–21 day delivery window. Actual cost and timing depend on home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from California to Massachusetts is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Who are the best movers to move from California to Massachusetts?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to Massachusetts is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from California to Massachusetts below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from California to Massachusetts
For a move from California to Massachusetts, we generally recommend hiring a professional interstate mover—they’re better equipped for the complex logistics that can come with a 3,095 mile relocation. Based on a review of 3,180 movers, moveBuddha found 2,642 (83%) that perform interstate moves. Leveraging our thorough rating methodology, our experts curated the best options to manage your relocation from California to Massachusetts.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
How much does it cost to move from California to Massachusetts?
It costs between $3,900–$12,100 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to Massachusetts. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
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FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to Massachusetts?
Moving from California to Massachusetts can cost anywhere from $1,358–$11,541, but most people pay around $3,929–$7,133 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,358 – $5,783 | $1,385 – $3,420 | $1,653 – $3,086 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,929 – $8,464 | $2,404 – $5,511 | $1,688 – $3,565 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,855 – $12,097 | $3,495 – $7,032 | $2,091 – $4,333 |
These are approximate estimates for a 3,095-mile move from CA to MA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $3,929 – $8,464 to hire a moving company to move you from California to Massachusetts. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,358 – $5,783
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,929 – $8,464
- 4+ bedrooms: $7,855 – $12,097
How much do moving containers cost from California to Massachusetts?
Using a moving container from California to Massachusetts costs, on average, $2,404 – $5,511. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $1,385 – $3,420
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,404 – $5,511
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,495 – $7,032
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from California to Massachusetts will costs you between $1,688 – $3,565, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,653 – $3,086
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,688 – $3,565
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,091 – $4,333
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from California to Massachusetts, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to MA?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Massachusetts — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $1,588 in Massachusetts, and average home values go from $771,057 to $623,131.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 100), unemployment (5.4% vs. 3.9%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 6.25%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 9.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| California | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $1,588 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $623,131 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $96,505 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 3.9% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 6.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 9.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Massachusetts?
Rent is about 14% lower in Massachusetts than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $1,588
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 19% lower in Massachusetts than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $623,131
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in California and Massachusetts.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $96,505
Is the overall cost of living higher in Massachusetts?
The cost of living is 25% lower in Massachusetts than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 28% lower in Massachusetts than in California.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 6.25%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 32% lower in Massachusetts than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 9.0%
How is daily life different in Massachusetts compared to California?
Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size.
| Massachusetts | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,001,399 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 61.5-36.3 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 16ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 49″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 47″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 13.92 | 28.43 |
Will Massachusetts feel more crowded than California?
Massachusetts is about 82% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both California and Massachusetts voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (82°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Massachusetts is colder on average (16°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Massachusetts?
Rain: Massachusetts gets more rain (49″ vs. 22″).
Snow: Massachusetts gets more snow (47 inches vs. 7 inches).
Is Massachusetts safer than California?
Massachusetts has a lower crime index than California (13.92 vs. 28.43), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Massachusetts?
Museums in Massachusetts
- The House of the Seven Gables
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Plimoth Patuxet
- Whaling Museum
- John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum
Parks in Massachusetts
- Stage Fort Park and Beach
- Salem Witch Trials Memorial
- Forest Park
- Cornelia Carey Sanctuary (The Knob)
- Veterans Memorial Park
Sports teams in Massachusetts
- Boston Red Sox (MLB)
- Boston Bruins (NHL)
- Boston Celtics (NBA)
- New England Patriots (NFL)
- New England Revolution (MLS)
Universities in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Harvard University
- Boston University
- Tufts University
- University of Massachusetts Amherst
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your California to Massachusetts move
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- State licensing: Moving companies in Massachusetts are required to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities – Transportation Oversight Division to provide local and intrastate moving services in Massachusetts movers must carry adequate cargo insurance and publicly file their tariffs required to list the services they provide and the cost for each. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Massachusetts moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Massachusetts, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance at no extra cost. In Alabama and Massachusetts, Released Value Protection is a no-cost option provided by movers but offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. If you seek full value coverage for your items, consider consulting with your moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Massachusetts?
Some cities expect a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Massachusetts?
Moving companies in Massachusetts are required to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities – Transportation Oversight Division to provide local and intrastate moving services in Massachusetts movers must carry adequate cargo insurance and publicly file their tariffs required to list the services they provide and the cost for each.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Massachusetts moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Massachusetts?
You don’t need a moving permit in Massachusetts.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
Interstate movers provide basic insurance free of charge. In Alabama and Massachusetts, Released Value Protection is a no-cost option provided by movers but offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. If you seek full value coverage for your items, consider consulting with your moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
Some movers in California offer discounts: 7 AAA discounts; 7 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 4 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Make moving day a breeze with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
California Moving Services
Frequently Traveled California Routes
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