Best Movers from California to Montana (2025 Cost Data)

Quick answer: The average cost to move from California to Montana ranges from $1,096 to $7,595 and takes three–eight days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Montana to California guide.

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The best California to Montana full-service movers

Moving from California to Montana? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.

Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving California for your relocation to Montana:

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • 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
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in California

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in California, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.

  1. Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication. Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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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
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/MeatheadMovers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Poor packing quality
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.
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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
https://www.facebook.com/RepublicMovingStorageSanDiego/, https://twitter.com/sdmovingstorage
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
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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
https://www.facebook.com/allstarmoverscal/, https://twitter.com/AllStarCal1
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
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.
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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
https://www.facebook.com/air1moving,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Night-and-day experiences define Air 1 Moving & Storage’s reputation, based on 545 customer reviews. About 71% of the feedback highlights professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient and fast moves, and affordable prices. Many people praise the company for managing stressful relocations with skill, moving items without damage or delays, and maintaining courteous communication throughout. Customers frequently mention the team’s reliability and trustworthiness, setting Air 1 apart from other movers. On the other hand, nearly 27% of the input focuses on negative incidents—most notably, unexpected charges, damaged or lost items, and delivery delays. Some report being billed far above initial quotes or experiencing broken or missing property without adequate resolution. Issues with last-minute fees and withheld communication stand out as significant frustrations. Compared to industry competitors, Air 1 garners above-average praise for its staff’s professionalism but struggles with cost transparency and consistency on long-distance moves.
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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 Montana 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 Montana.

Check out these highly rated moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best California to Montana moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from California to Montana? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best California to Montana labor-only movers

If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.

Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from California to Montana:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MT movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from California to Montana?

Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Montana. 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 $1,536 - $6,023 $1,097 - $2,716 $1,024 - $1,879
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,381 - $7,595 $2,002 - $4,077 $1,096 - $2,372
4+ bedrooms $5,772 - $10,754 $2,913 - $5,250 $1,296 - $2,754

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,307 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 Montana

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Montana typically costs between $1,536 and $6,023. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,381 and $7,595 when moving from CA to MT. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Montana, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,772 up to $10,754.

Cost of moving containers from California to Montana

Moving containers from California to Montana will cost you $1,097 to $2,716 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,002 to $4,077. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,913 to $5,250. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Montana

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 $1,024 and $1,879. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,096 and $2,372. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,296 up to $2,754 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to MT

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to Montana. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in California.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from CA to MT

When moving from California to Montana, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.

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 cost $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%
  • Expect to pay around 48% less in rent in Montana than in California, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
  • Good news for your budget—home prices in Montana are around 40% lower than in California. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
  • Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Montana are about 28% lower than in California.
  • 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.
  • With an unemployment rate roughly 39% lower than California, Montana offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
  • Sales tax in Montana is 100% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Montana can really help lower your monthly costs.
  • Income taxes in Montana are 49% lower than in California. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.

How life is different in Montana vs. California

Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel. From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience. Here’s how life in Montana and California compares across key lifestyle indicators:

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
  • 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 leaned Republican, while California supported Democratic.
  • Summer highs typically reach about 84ºF in Montana and 87ºF in California. With similar temperatures, you shouldn't have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
  • During winter, temperatures in Montana can drop to around 12ºF, while California usually only experiences lows near 59ºF. Moving to Montana 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.
  • In Montana, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year—less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
  • Each year, Montana gets about 49 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 Montana means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 23.37 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. Montana

Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Montana versus 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

  • Weather: Montana has a lot of variation in geography, topography, and elevation, and the climate is equally varied. The western half is mountainous, interrupted by numerous large valleys. Eastern Montana comprises plains and badlands, broken by hills and isolated mountain ranges, The Continental Divide has a considerable effect on the climate, as it restricts the flow of warmer air from the Pacific from moving east, and drier continental air from moving west. The area west of the divide has a modified northern Pacific Coast climate, with milder winters, cooler summers, less wind, and a longer growing season. Low clouds and fog often form in the valleys west of the divide in winter, but this is rarely seen in the east.
  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
  • Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
  • Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
  • 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: Quickly check the status of a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Montana, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Montana right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. 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.
  • 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? toggle

Choosing a full-service California moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from California to Montana? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from California to Montana on your own through a top car shipping company.

What are the benefits of moving from California to Montana? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from California to Montana to enjoy all the perks that come with living in Montana, such as: unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.

Is it cheaper to live in California or Montana? toggle

Living in Montana usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Montana, with average rent about 48% less and home prices 40.0% 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? toggle

If you’re planning to live solo in Montana, a comfortable income is around $61,348. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $1,892 on your own, or $5,184 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Billings and Missoula typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources