How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to ND move
Using rate data from 370 California movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to North Dakota?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to North Dakota with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,255 – $4,812 |
$973 – $2,399 |
$1,002 – $1,870 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,994 – $7,080 |
$1,807 – $3,915 |
$1,042 – $2,158 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,551 – $9,934 |
$2,517 – $5,201 |
$1,367 – $2,803 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,716-mile move from CA to
ND, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to North Dakota
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to North Dakota,
you can expect to spend between $1,255
and $4,812.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,994 to
$7,080 on the same route
(CA to ND). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to North Dakota typically runs between
$5,551 and
$9,934.
Cost of moving containers from California to North Dakota
Moving from California to North Dakota? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $973 and
$2,399. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,807 to
$3,915. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,517 up to
$5,201. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to North Dakota
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$1,002 and
$1,870.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$1,042 and
$2,158.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,367 and
$2,803.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to ND
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to North Dakota will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from CA to ND
Moving between California and North Dakota involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. North Dakota
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and North Dakota. 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 |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
2.9% |
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Rent in North Dakota is about 51% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in North Dakota are roughly 66% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
-
Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in North Dakota are about 20% lower than in California.
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Moving to North Dakota is about 28% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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North Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 56%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 20% lower in North Dakota compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in North Dakota are 78% lower than in California. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in North Dakota vs. California
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how North Dakota differs from California in these areas.
|
North Dakota |
California |
| Population |
783,926 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 98% smaller than California, North Dakota 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, North Dakota voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in North Dakota average 82°F, almost the same as 87°F in California.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in North Dakota can dip to 0°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In North Dakota, you’ll get about 19 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 22 inches you’ve been used to in California.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In North Dakota, it snows about 39 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
North Dakota offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 22.74 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 Dakota
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in North Dakota stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Pleasant weather |
Peaceful rural life |
| Abundant recreational options |
Affordable living costs |
| High quality of life |
High-quality education opportunities |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. North Dakota
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to North Dakota, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in North Dakota |
| High cost of living |
Long and cold winters |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Lack of diversity |
| Natural disasters |
Housing shortages |
| Terrible traffic |
Small populations |
| Strange laws |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your California to North Dakota 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.
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State licensing:
All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a North Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
North Dakota 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. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to North Dakota right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 North Dakota
Get ready to discover North Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from California to North Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from California to North Dakota?
More and more folks are relocating from California to North Dakota to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life.
Is it cheaper to live in California or North Dakota?
Living in North Dakota usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in North Dakota,
with average rent about 51% less and home prices 66% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 70% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
If you’re planning to live on your own in North Dakota, aim for an income of around $66,980 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,516 if you’re flying solo, or $5,264 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Fargo and Bismarck usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in California.
There are 7 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 7 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 2 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 4 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When planning a move from California to North Dakota, professional movers typically run between
$2,994 and $7,080, a moving container averages about
$2,861, and a rental truck is around
$1,600.
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