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California to Montana Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- Moving from California to Montana can cost anywhere from $2,986 to $8,695. A smaller move will cost around $1,433.
- Professional movers for this route often price out between $2,700 and $5,800.*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and three–eight day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from California to Montana is Safeway Moving.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 4,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights
Who are the best movers to move from California to Montana?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to Montana is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from California to Montana below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from California to Montana
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your California to Montana move, since they’re built for the coordination a 1,306 mile journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from California to Montana.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from California to Montana?
It costs between $2,700–$8,700 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to Montana. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,306-mile move from CA to
MT using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 09, 2026. moveBuddha curates a nationwide set of thousands of validated moving prices, with monthly updates reflecting seasonal patterns and evolving market conditions. Final charges may fluctuate due to move size, optional services, access/parking constraints, fuel rates, and booking dates. For the best read on cost, gather multiple mover quotes.
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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.
Budget Truck Rental
Gustine, CA
›
Big Timber, MT
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 12, 2026
$918
Colonial Van Lines
Fairfield, CA
›
Bozeman, MT
2 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
$3,052
Allied Van Lines
Clovis, CA
›
Great Falls, MT
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 28, 2025
$3,691
North American Van Lines
Calistoga, CA
›
Missoula, MT
2 Bedrooms
Dec 23, 2025
$4,549
Mayzlin Relocation
Temecula, CA
›
Helena, MT
Studio apartment
Dec 17, 2025
$2,793
PODS
Colton, CA
›
Kalispell, MT
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 10, 2025
$1,910
United Van Lines
Lakeside, CA
›
Butte, MT
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 04, 2025
$5,607
Safeway Moving
West Hollywood, CA
›
Billings, MT
4 Bedrooms
Oct 29, 2025
$6,195
Joyce Van Lines
Santa Nella, CA
›
Belgrade, MT
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
$3,463
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to Montana?
Moving from California to Montana can cost anywhere from $1,193–$7,795, but most people pay around $2,707–$5,803 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,193 – $4,819 | $879 – $2,241 | $741 – $1,534 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,707 – $6,089 | $1,588 – $3,136 | $868 – $1,772 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,760 – $8,695 | $2,047 – $4,421 | $1,018 – $2,161 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,306-mile move from CA to MT using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 09, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,707 – $6,089 to hire a moving company to move you from California to Montana. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,193 – $4,819
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,707 – $6,089
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,760 – $8,695
How much do moving containers cost from California to Montana?
Using a moving container from California to Montana costs, on average, $1,588 – $3,136. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $879 – $2,241
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,588 – $3,136
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,047 – $4,421
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from California to Montana will costs you between $868 – $1,772, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $741 – $1,534
- 2–3 bedrooms: $868 – $1,772
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,018 – $2,161
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from California to Montana, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to MT?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Montana — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $974 in Montana, and average home values go from $771,057 to $462,631.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 100), unemployment (5.4% vs. 3.3%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 0.0%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 6.75%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| 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% |
Will rent be more expensive in Montana?
Rent is about 48% lower in Montana than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $974
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 40% lower in Montana than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $462,631
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 28% lower in Montana than in California.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $66,341
Is the overall cost of living higher in Montana?
The cost of living is 25% lower in Montana than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on everyday purchases compared to California.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 0.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 49% lower in Montana than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 6.75%
How is daily life different in Montana compared to California?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| 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 |
Will Montana feel more crowded than California?
Montana is about 97% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Montana voted Republican while California voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (84°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Montana is colder on average (12°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Montana?
Rain: Montana gets less rain (15″ vs. 22″).
Snow: Montana gets more snow (49 inches vs. 7 inches).
Is Montana safer than California?
Montana has a lower crime index than California (23.37 vs. 28.43), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Montana?
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
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
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.
- 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.
- 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance 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.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Montana?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Montana?
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT).
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Montana moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Montana?
Montana does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. 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.
Some movers in California offer discounts: 7 AAA discounts; 7 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 4 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
California Moving Services
Frequently Traveled California Routes
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