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.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Montana to California guide.
Our track record
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:
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
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.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Poor complaint handling
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
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
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
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Lack of communication
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
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Inaccurate estimates
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
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
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
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:
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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:
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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:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MT move
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 |
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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 | |
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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 | |
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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 |
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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 |
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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