How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MS 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 Mississippi?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Mississippi.
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 |
$1,293 – $4,595 |
$1,163 – $2,710 |
$1,139 – $2,217 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,246 – $6,773 |
$2,009 – $3,971 |
$1,245 – $2,690 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,896 – $11,059 |
$2,589 – $5,689 |
$1,570 – $3,106 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,006-mile move from CA to
MS 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 Mississippi
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Mississippi typically costs between
$1,293 and
$4,595.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,246
and $6,773
when moving from CA to MS.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Mississippi,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,896
up to $11,059.
Cost of moving containers from California to Mississippi
If you’re relocating from California to Mississippi,
you’ll typically spend between $1,163
and $2,710 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,009 up to
$3,971.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,589 and
$5,689. 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 Mississippi
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
$1,139 and
$2,217.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,245 to
$2,690.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,570 and
$3,106.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to MS
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to Mississippi. 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 MS
Transitioning from California to Mississippi 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. Mississippi
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and Mississippi are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
California |
Mississippi |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$896 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$181,313 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
85 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
4.7% |
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Rent is about 52% less expensive in Mississippi than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Mississippi are about 76% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Mississippi are roughly 25% lower than in California.
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Moving to Mississippi costs about 37% 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 46% lower than California, Mississippi offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Mississippi is 19% 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 65% lower in Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi and California compare.
|
Mississippi |
California |
| Population |
2,943,045 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60.9-38 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
57″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
19.92 |
28.43 |
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With a population roughly 92% smaller than California, Mississippi 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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In the last presidential election, Mississippi leaned Republican, while California supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Mississippi is 91°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.
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In the coldest months, Mississippi dips to about 33°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 57 inches of rain each year in Mississippi.
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.
-
In Mississippi, it only snows about 1 inch annually while California gets 7 inches.
Moving to Mississippi, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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Mississippi boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 19.92 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. Mississippi
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Mississippi to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Mississippi |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Southern hospitality |
| Pleasant weather |
Delicious comfort food |
| Abundant recreational options |
Mild winters |
| High quality of life |
Low cost of living |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Nice beaches |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Mississippi
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to Mississippi:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Mississippi |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Lackluster economy |
| Natural disasters |
Low diversity |
| Terrible traffic |
Poor healthcare |
| Strange laws |
Political homogeneity |
Other things to consider for your California to Mississippi 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.
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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:
Like in many other states, movers in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT).
When considering hiring a local mover, you’ll want to check that they have an up-to-date MSPC Number.
If they do, it means that they’re authorized to move household goods within the state. 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 Mississippi moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Mississippi, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Mississippi. 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. Released Value Protection is the cost-free choice provided by movers, but it offers minimal coverage. Movers are only responsible for up to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items, consider exploring alternative options with your chosen moving company or a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Mississippi
Get excited to explore Mississippi. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Mississippi
- 1. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum
- 2. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
- 3. Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum
- 4. Mississippi Children’s Museum
- 5. The Delta Blues Museum
Parks in Mississippi
- 1. Vicksburg National Military Park
- 2. Bonita Lakes Park
- 4. Jones Park
- 5. Flowood Nature Park
- 6. Bluff Park
Sports teams in Mississippi
- Biloxi Shuckers (Double-A South
- Memphis Hustle (NBA G League)
- Mississippi Braves (Double-A South)
- Ole Miss Rebels (NCAA)
Universities in Mississippi
- Mississippi State University
- University of Mississippi
- University of Southern Mississippi
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Jackson State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Mississippi?
Do movers transport your car from California to Mississippi?
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
Mississippi
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Mississippi?
Many people are making the move from California to Mississippi to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Mississippi has to offer, like southern hospitality and delicious comfort food.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Mississippi?
Living in Mississippi usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Mississippi,
with average rent about 52% less and home prices 76% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Mississippi, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Mississippi?
Planning to move to Mississippi? A single adult should aim for an income of around $60,017 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,617 for an individual, or $5,688 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Jackson and Gulfport 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 Mississippi, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,246 to
$6,773, roughly
$2,990 for a container move, and close to
$1,967
for a rental truck.
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