($1,837) Cost of Moving From California to Massachusetts
Quick answer: Moving from California to Massachusetts typically costs between $2,327 and $11,111 and usually takes seven–21 days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Massachusetts to California guide.
Our track record
The best California to Massachusetts full-service movers
Heading from California to Massachusetts? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.
Kick off your move to Massachusetts with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve California.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in California
With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in California. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Poor complaint handling
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
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Lack of communication
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Inaccurate estimates
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 0189688
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1095485
Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best California to Massachusetts moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in California and drop it off at your new home in Massachusetts.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best California to Massachusetts moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from California to Massachusetts, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best California to Massachusetts labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from California to Massachusetts, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MA move
How much does it cost to move from California to Massachusetts?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Massachusetts. 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 | $1,837 - $7,593 | $1,928 - $4,537 | $1,985 - $3,813 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $5,427 - $11,111 | $3,385 - $6,823 | $2,327 - $4,540 |
4+ bedrooms | $10,312 - $16,554 | $4,543 - $9,515 | $2,859 - $5,575 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 3,095 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from California to Massachusetts
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Massachusetts typically costs between $1,837 and $7,593. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $5,427 and $11,111 when moving from CA to MA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Massachusetts, you’re looking at costs ranging from $10,312 up to $16,554.
Cost of moving containers from California to Massachusetts
If you're moving from California to Massachusetts, expect to pay between $1,928 and $4,537 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $3,385 up to $6,823. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $4,543 and $9,515. 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 Massachusetts
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 $1,985 and $3,813. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $2,327 and $4,540. Planning a move from California to Massachusetts or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,859 up to $5,575 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to MA
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Massachusetts will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in California is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- 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 MA
If you’re moving to Massachusetts from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: California vs. Massachusetts
Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in California and Massachusetts. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:
California | Massachusetts | |
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Average rent cost | $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% |
- Rent in Massachusetts is around 14% less than in California, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
- Good news for your budget—home prices in Massachusetts are roughly 19% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
- Good news—you can expect to earn about 5% more in Massachusetts than in California. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Living in Massachusetts is about 25% cheaper than California. That means big savings for you, but it's still important to plan your move carefully.
- With an unemployment rate around 28% lower than California, Massachusetts offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
- Sales tax in Massachusetts is 28% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Massachusetts can really help cut down your living expenses.
- Income taxes in Massachusetts are 32% 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 Massachusetts vs. California
Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in Massachusetts compared to California across a few key lifestyle factors:
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 |
- With a population about 82% smaller than California, Massachusetts 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, Massachusetts leaned Democratic, while California supported Democratic.
- Summers in Massachusetts average 82ºF, while California hits highs of 87ºF. Opting for a cooler destination means less heat, lower energy bills, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, perfect if you prioritize comfort and enjoy spending time outside.
- During winter, temperatures in Massachusetts can drop to around 16ºF, while California usually only experiences lows near 59ºF. Moving to Massachusetts means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
- Get ready for about 49 inches of rain each year in Massachusetts, which is quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
- Each year, Massachusetts gets about 47 inches of snow, far more than the 7 inches you might be accustomed to in California. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation, regular upkeep, and dressing warmly.
- Moving to Massachusetts means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 13.92 versus California’s 28.43, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s comforting to know your new home offers extra security.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Massachusetts
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Massachusetts versus California.
Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Massachusetts |
---|---|
Ample economic opportunity | Natural beauty |
Pleasant weather | Excellent education system |
Abundant recreational options | Delicious seafood |
High quality of life | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Fresh and healthy foods | Home to Boston |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts.
Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Massachusetts |
---|---|
High cost of living | Bad traffic |
Heavy tax burdens | Poor driving conditions |
Natural disasters | Harsh winter weather |
Terrible traffic | High cost of living |
Strange laws | Peculiar liquor laws |
Other things to consider for your California to Massachusetts move
- Weather: Most of Massachusetts has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Far southeast coastal areas are the broad transition zone to Humid Subtropical climates. The warm to hot summers render the oceanic climate rare in this transition, only applying to exposed coastal areas such as on the peninsula of Barnstable County. The climate of Boston is quite representative for the commonwealth, characterized by summer highs of around 81 °F (27 °C) and winter highs of 35 °F (2 °C), and is quite wet. Frosts are frequent all winter, even in coastal areas due to prevailing inland winds. Due to its location near the Atlantic, Massachusetts is vulnerable to nor'easters, hurricanes, and tropical storms.
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- 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: 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: Easily verify the status of a Massachusetts moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Massachusetts, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- 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 Massachusetts without a hitch. 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. 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, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Massachusetts
Get excited to explore Massachusetts. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
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