How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MD move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 370 California moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Maryland?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Maryland.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,288 – $5,645 |
$1,387 – $3,355 |
$1,427 – $2,968 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,996 – $7,793 |
$2,341 – $5,291 |
$1,545 – $3,465 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$7,088 – $11,957 |
$3,362 – $7,149 |
$1,953 – $4,380 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,780-mile move from CA to
MD using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from California to Maryland
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Maryland typically costs between
$1,288 and
$5,645.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,996
and $7,793
when moving from CA to MD.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Maryland,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,088
up to $11,957.
Cost of moving containers from California to Maryland
If you’re relocating from California to Maryland,
you’ll typically spend between $1,387
and $3,355 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,341 up to
$5,291.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,362 and
$7,149. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Maryland
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$1,427 and
$2,968.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,545 to
$3,465.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,953 and
$4,380.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to MD
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to Maryland. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in California, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from CA to MD
Transitioning from California to Maryland gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: California vs. Maryland
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and Maryland are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
California |
Maryland |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,598 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$418,438 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$98,461 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
5.75% |
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Rent is about 14% less expensive in Maryland than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Maryland are about 46% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 7% more in Maryland than in California. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to Maryland costs about 25% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 44% lower than California, Maryland offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Maryland is 31% lower than in California, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 57% lower in Maryland compared to California. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Maryland vs. California
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Maryland and California compare.
|
Maryland |
California |
| Population |
6,180,253 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 63-34.4 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
19″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
20.34 |
28.43 |
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With a population roughly 84% smaller than California, Maryland gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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The last presidential election saw both California and Maryland siding with the Democratic party.
-
The average summer high in Maryland is 87°F, while California averages 87°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
-
In the coldest months, Maryland dips to about 25°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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Get ready for about 44 inches of rain each year in Maryland.
That’s quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
-
Each year, Maryland gets about 19 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 and regular upkeep.
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Maryland boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 20.34 compared to 28.43.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Maryland
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Maryland to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Maryland |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Delicious food |
| Pleasant weather |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant recreational options |
Diverse outdoor activities |
| High quality of life |
Beautiful coastline |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Rich history |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Maryland
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to Maryland:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Maryland |
| High cost of living |
High cost of living |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Bad traffic |
| Natural disasters |
High crime |
| Terrible traffic |
High homelessness |
| Strange laws |
Peculiar alcohol laws |
Other things to consider for your California to Maryland move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Maryland moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Maryland, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Maryland. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Maryland
Get excited to explore Maryland. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Maryland
- U.S. Naval Academy
- The Walters Art Museum
- American Visionary Art Museum
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
- Baltimore Museum of Art
Parks in Maryland
- Northside Park
- Rock Creek Regional Park
- Wheaton Regional Park
- Centennial Park
- Hagerstown City Park
Sports teams in Maryland
- Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
- Washington Commanders (NFL)
- Maryland Terrapins (NCAA)
- Potomac River Exiles Men’s Rugby Club (MAC)
Universities in Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Maryland
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Towson University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Maryland?
Do movers transport your car from California to Maryland?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
California to
Maryland
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Maryland?
Many people are making the move from California to Maryland to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Maryland has to offer, like delicious food and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Maryland?
Living in Maryland usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Maryland,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 46% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Maryland, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Maryland?
Planning to move to Maryland? A single adult should aim for an income of around $96,415 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,469 for an individual, or $8,331 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Washington DC and Baltimore usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in California:
7 movers offer AAA member savings;
7 provide military discounts;
7 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
2 advertise educator discounts;
4 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When relocating from California to Maryland, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,996 to
$7,793, roughly
$3,816 for a container move, and close to
$2,505
for a rental truck.
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