How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MT move
Using rate data from 370 California movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Montana?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to Montana with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,126 – $4,738 |
$926 – $2,181 |
$766 – $1,538 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,606 – $6,352 |
$1,624 – $3,078 |
$828 – $1,776 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,727 – $8,205 |
$2,225 – $4,433 |
$1,052 – $2,188 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,306-mile move from CA to
MT, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to Montana
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Montana,
you can expect to spend between $1,126
and $4,738.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,606 to
$6,352 on the same route
(CA to MT). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to Montana typically runs between
$4,727 and
$8,205.
Cost of moving containers from California to Montana
Moving from California to Montana? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $926 and
$2,181. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,624 to
$3,078. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,225 up to
$4,433. 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 Montana
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 and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$766 and
$1,538.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$828 and
$1,776.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,052 and
$2,188.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to MT
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Montana will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from CA to MT
Moving between California and Montana involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. Montana
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and Montana. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
California |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
6.75% |
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Rent in Montana is about 48% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Montana are roughly 40% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Montana are about 28% lower than in California.
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Moving to Montana is about 25% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Montana has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 39%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to California.
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Income taxes in Montana are 49% 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 Montana vs. California
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Montana differs from California in these areas.
|
Montana |
California |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 97% smaller than California, Montana 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, Montana voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Montana average 84°F, almost the same as 87°F in California.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in Montana can dip to 12°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In Montana, you’ll see about 15 inches of rain each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In Montana, it snows about 49 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Montana offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 23.37 versus 28.43.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Montana
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Montana stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Pleasant weather |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Abundant recreational options |
Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality of life |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Montana
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to Montana, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Montana |
| High cost of living |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Remote lifestyle |
| Natural disasters |
Touristy |
| Terrible traffic |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Strange laws |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your California to Montana move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Montana does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Montana right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Montana
Get ready to discover Montana. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from California to Montana?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from California to Montana
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Montana?
More and more folks are relocating from California to Montana to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Montana?
Living in Montana usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Montana,
with average rent about 48% less and home prices 40% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Montana, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Montana, aim for an income of around $62,210 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,225 if you’re flying solo, or $5,468 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Billings and Missoula usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in California.
There are 7 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 7 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 2 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 4 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When planning a move from California to Montana, professional movers typically run between
$2,606 and $6,352, a moving container averages about
$2,351, and a rental truck is around
$1,302.
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