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($1,389) Movers From California to Boston, MA

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Estimated cost & time: Relocating from California to Boston, MA generally runs between $1,812 and $7,988. The 3,106-mile trip often takes seven–21 days. Your cost will depend on your household size, move date, and choice of DIY vs. pros.
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Best movers from California to Boston, MA

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from California to Boston, MA

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,106-mile move from California to Boston, MA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We collect thousands of trustworthy price points from movers nationwide, updating the figures monthly to mirror seasonal fluctuations and broader market trends. Your ultimate cost can shift with move size, service add-ons, parking/access issues, fuel prices, and schedule. Always compare multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,640 – $6,185
  • Moving Container $1,973 – $3,964
  • Rental Truck $1,674 – $3,155
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,186 – $7,988
  • Moving Container $2,434 – $5,261
  • Rental Truck $1,812 – $3,867
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $8,188 – $12,248
  • Moving Container $3,363 – $6,975
  • Rental Truck $2,270 – $4,614
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Safeway Moving
Selma, CA Foxborough, MA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 18, 2025
North American Van Lines
Riverbank, CA Woburn, MA
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Pleasant Hill, CA Duxbury, MA
Studio apartment
Nov 04, 2025
United Van Lines
Monterey, CA Haverhill, MA
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 03, 2025
PODS
Lincoln, CA Hopkinton, MA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Lennox, CA North Andover, MA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 06, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Sand City, CA Southborough, MA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
American Van Lines
Patterson Tract, CA Sharon, MA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
San Miguel, CA Shrewsbury, MA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Desert Palms, CA Millbury, MA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Boston, MA, to California guide .

Local moving companies in California

When relocating from California to Boston, MA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.

Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Boston, MA.

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.7% of all reviews were positive
3.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving customers set All Star Movers & Storage apart from the crowd. Out of 421 reviews, 95.7% praised the company for efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, rapid moves, and strong communication. Customers consistently mention that crews show up on time, finish faster than expected, and handle belongings with care. Staff are courteous, responsive, and easy to work with. A small portion (3.8%) of feedback points to disappointment with estimate accuracy, damage to items, or surprise extra charges. Few reviewers noted moving costs exceeded quotes or felt work was rushed, sometimes resulting in minor damage. Only two customers (0.5%) shared neutral experiences, often related to pricing clarity. Compared to many movers in the region, All Star stands out for hassle-free service, transparent rates, and reliable teams. While a handful of customers experienced issues, the vast majority were relieved by stress-free moves and recommend this company as a top choice.
Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Company Info

State license #: 0191302

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2971368

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
12.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—fast, careful, and professional. Across 534 customer accounts, 85% were satisfied with Meathead Movers, who consistently impress with prompt, efficient service, courteous staff, careful attention to belongings, and effective communication. Many point to their speed, skill, and ability to reduce moving stress as unmatched compared to other movers. Staff go out of their way to ensure everything is handled safely and customers feel supported throughout. Most praise the company’s organization and transparency, with workers often finishing ahead of schedule and providing clear updates. While Meathead stands out for reliability, a number of customers highlighted problems including damage to items, higher-than-expected costs than initial estimates, and issues with packing quality—especially when using packing services. Some experienced final bills much greater than the quotes they received, contributing to frustration. A few customers also reported items arriving broken or poor claim handling after reporting damage. Compared to other moving firms, feedback shows Meathead’s team typically provides a smoother, faster, and friendlier move—but attention to better estimate accuracy and meticulous packing would boost trust even further.
Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo’s Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo’s stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo’s would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from California to Boston, MA

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Boston, MA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,389 – $5,738 $1,430 – $3,463 $1,658 – $3,001
2-3 bedrooms $4,186 – $7,988 $2,434 – $5,261 $1,812 – $3,867
4+ bedrooms $8,188 – $12,248 $3,363 – $6,975 $2,270 – $4,614

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,106-mile move from California to Boston, MA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Boston, MA

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Boston, MA, you can expect to spend between $1,389 and $5,738. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,186 to $7,988 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $8,188 and $12,248.

Cost of moving containers from California to Boston, MA

When moving from California to Boston, MA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,430 and $3,463. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,434 to $5,261. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,363 up to $6,975. 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 California to Boston, MA

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. 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 from California to Boston, MA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,658 and $3,001. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,812 and $3,867. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,270 and $4,614.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Compare local moving companies from California to Boston, MA

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:

Company Full Service Antiques Military Discount Senior Discount
Grace Moving Company × ×
All Star Movers & Storage × × ×
Meathead Movers × × ×
Sterling Van Lines
Rigo’s Moving Company Inc × ×

Out of the 3,180 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how California movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:

California Nationwide
Full Service 98% 96%
Antiques 61% 46%
Military Discount 1% 4%
Senior Discount 1% 4%

Things to know before moving from California to Boston, MA

Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Boston, MA is really like compared to California. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.

Cost of living: California vs. Boston, MA

California Boston
Average rent cost $1,856 $3,400
Average home cost $771,057 $739,121
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $89,212
Cost of Living Index 134 151
Unemployment rate 5.4% 6.2%
State Income Tax 13.3% 9.0%
  • Rent in Boston is roughly 83% higher than in California. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
  • Home prices are about the same in Boston and California, so the cost of buying a home should be in the same ballpark, but local market conditions may still affect your options.
  • Since income levels in Boston are similar to those in California, your bank account won’t take much of a hit when you move.
  • With unemployment 15% higher in Boston than California, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
  • You’ll pay roughly 32% less in state income taxes in Massachusetts compared to California, so you keep more of what you earn.

How life is different in Boston from California

Boston California
Population 675,647 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 49-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 82ºF 87ºF
Winter low 19ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 47″ 22″
Annual snow 48″ 7″
Crime index 39.88 28.43
  • Boston voted Republican, while California was Democratic.
  • Summer in Boston usually hits around 82ºF, pretty similar to the 87ºF you’re used to in California. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Boston gets down to 19ºF while California only dips to 59ºF. Relocating to Boston means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
  • Expect about 47 inches of rain each year in Boston—compared to just 22 inches in California. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
  • Every year, Boston gets around 48 inches of snow, much more than the 7 inches that California typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
  • Boston has a higher crime rate than California with a crime index of 39.88 vs 28.43. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.

Things to do in Boston

From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Boston has a little bit of everything waiting for you.

Museums in Boston

  • Museum of Fine Arts
  • Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
  • John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library
  • Museum of Science
  • Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Parks in Boston

  • Boston Public Garden
  • Boston Common
  • Arnold Arboretum
  • Charles River Esplanade
  • Rose Kennedy Greenway

Sports teams in Boston

  • Boston Red Sox (MLB)
  • Boston Bruins (NHL)
  • Boston Celtics (NBA)
  • New England Patriots (NFL)
  • New England Revolution (MLS)

Universities in Boston

  • Bay State College
  • Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
  • Berklee College of Music
  • Boston Architectural College
  • Boston University

Other considerations when moving to Boston, MA

  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
  • 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Massachusetts moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Massachusetts, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Massachusetts without any delays. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: 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: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Boston take?

The time frame for a move from California to Boston, MA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

The farther north you are in California, the longer it’ll take to reach Boston. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.

Delivery from California to Boston can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Boston?

If you’re gearing up for a 3,106-mile move from California to Boston, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Boston, MA?

Summer in Boston can reach highs of 82°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 19°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Boston opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.

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