Best Movers from California to North Carolina (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When you’re moving from California to North Carolina, you’ll typically spend between $1,884 and $9,821. Most moves take around seven–21 days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from North Carolina to California guide.
Our track record
The best California to North Carolina full-service movers
Planning a move from California to North Carolina? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.
Start your move from California to North Carolina with these top-rated long-distance movers in California.
- 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
- Grace Moving Company: 4.86 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
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
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
The best California to North Carolina moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in California and drops it off at your new home in North Carolina.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best California to North Carolina moving truck rentals
If you're looking to cut costs on your move from California to North Carolina, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best California to North Carolina labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from California to North Carolina, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NC move
How much does it cost to move from California to North Carolina?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to North Carolina with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,597 - $6,680 | $1,712 - $4,434 | $1,776 - $3,692 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,650 - $9,821 | $3,070 - $6,149 | $1,884 - $4,183 |
4+ bedrooms | $9,281 - $15,511 | $4,190 - $8,375 | $2,381 - $5,444 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,659 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 North Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to North Carolina typically costs between $1,597 and $6,680. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,650 and $9,821 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 $9,281 up to $15,511.
Cost of moving containers from California to North Carolina
Moving containers from California to North Carolina will cost you $1,712 to $4,434 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $3,070 to $6,149. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $4,190 to $8,375. 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 North Carolina
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 $1,776 and $3,692. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,884 and $4,183. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,381 up to $5,444 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to NC
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to North Carolina. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
- Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.
What to know before moving from CA to NC
If you’re moving to North Carolina from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: California vs. North Carolina
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in California and North Carolina. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
California | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $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% |
- Rent in North Carolina is about 41% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in North Carolina are about 57% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in North Carolina are about 28% lower than in California.
- Living in North Carolina costs about 28% less than in California. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
- North Carolina boasts an unemployment rate about 31% lower than California. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
- Sales tax in North Carolina is 20% lower than in California. If you have a big family or tend to spend more, this lower rate in North Carolina can make a noticeable difference in your overall living costs.
- 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
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 North Carolina and California compares across key lifestyle indicators:
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 |
- With a population about 72% smaller than California, North Carolina offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle. Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
- In the latest presidential election, North Carolina voted Republican, while California chose Democratic.
- Summer highs typically reach 88ºF in North Carolina and 87ºF in California. Since those temps are similar, adjusting to your new home’s climate should be a breeze. Just remember to also consider humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs for a true sense of what summer will be like.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in North Carolina drop to about 29ºF, compared to lows of around 59ºF in California. Moving to North Carolina means you’ll experience chillier winters, which could mean adjusting to higher heating costs, new daily habits, and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and activities the season brings.
- 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’ll get about 4 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, California averages around 7 inches annually. With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward, with nothing out of the ordinary.
- North Carolina offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 24.69 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. North Carolina
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in North Carolina stacks up against 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
Moving from California to North Carolina comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother.
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
- Weather: North Carolina has mild weather year round, however, snow may affect your move in some parts of the state during winter time.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- 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 parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- 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.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
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