How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NC 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 North Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to North Carolina.
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 |
$1,282 – $5,203 |
$1,360 – $3,354 |
$1,355 – $2,654 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,511 – $7,199 |
$2,227 – $4,936 |
$1,514 – $3,357 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,673 – $11,384 |
$3,231 – $6,855 |
$2,011 – $4,078 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,660-mile move from CA to
NC 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 North Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to North Carolina typically costs between
$1,282 and
$5,203.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,511
and $7,199
when moving from CA to NC.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to North Carolina,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,673
up to $11,384.
Cost of moving containers from California to North Carolina
If you’re relocating from California to North Carolina,
you’ll typically spend between $1,360
and $3,354 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,227 up to
$4,936.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,231 and
$6,855. 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 North Carolina
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
$1,355 and
$2,654.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,514 to
$3,357.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $2,011 and
$4,078.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to NC
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to North Carolina. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
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 NC
Transitioning from California to North Carolina 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. North Carolina
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and North Carolina are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
California |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
4.5% |
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Rent is about 41% less expensive in North Carolina than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in North Carolina are about 57% 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 North Carolina are roughly 28% lower than in California.
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Moving to North Carolina costs about 28% 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 31% lower than California, North Carolina offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in North Carolina is 20% 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 66% lower in North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina and California compare.
|
North Carolina |
California |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
28.43 |
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With a population roughly 72% smaller than California, North Carolina 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, North Carolina leaned Republican, while California supported Democratic.
-
The average summer high in North Carolina is 88°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, North Carolina dips to about 29°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 48 inches of rain each year in North Carolina.
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 North Carolina, you can expect about 4 inches of snow each year.
By comparison, California typically gets around 7 inches annually.
Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
-
North Carolina boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 24.69 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. North Carolina
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in North Carolina to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Great communities |
| Pleasant weather |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant recreational options |
Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality of life |
High quality of life |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. North Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to North Carolina:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| High cost of living |
Hurricanes |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Bland weather |
| Natural disasters |
High crime rate |
| Terrible traffic |
High tax burden |
| Strange laws |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your California to North Carolina 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.
-
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.
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State licensing:
For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division.
All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). 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 North Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina. 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. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider 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 North Carolina
Get excited to explore North Carolina. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Fontana Lake
Sports teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)
Universities in North Carolina
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from California to North Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from California to North Carolina?
Many people are making the move from California to North Carolina to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in North Carolina has to offer, like great communities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in California or North Carolina?
Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in North Carolina,
with average rent about 41% less and home prices 57% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina?
Planning to move to North Carolina? A single adult should aim for an income of around $43,333 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,876 for an individual, or $6,644 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh 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 North Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,511 to
$7,199, roughly
$3,581 for a container move, and close to
$2,435
for a rental truck.
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