How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NJ move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 370 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to New Jersey?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from California
to New Jersey, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,379 – $5,814 |
$1,461 – $3,400 |
$1,457 – $3,125 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$4,154 – $8,181 |
$2,492 – $5,369 |
$1,645 – $3,614 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$7,146 – $12,430 |
$3,338 – $6,836 |
$2,122 – $4,176 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 2,886-mile relocation from CA to
NJ, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from California to New Jersey
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from California to New Jersey, you’ll likely pay between
$1,379
and $5,814.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$4,154 and $8,181
for the same journey (CA to NJ).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,146
to $12,430.
Cost of moving containers from California to New Jersey
When you’re heading from California to New Jersey, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $1,461 and
$3,400. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $2,492 and
$5,369. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,338
to $6,836. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from California easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to New Jersey
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$1,457
to $3,125.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,645
to $3,614, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from California to New Jersey costs around
$2,122 to
$4,176.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to NJ
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to New Jersey. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in California when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from CA to NJ
If you’re moving to New Jersey from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: California vs. New Jersey
Understanding how costs compare between California and New Jersey can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
California |
New Jersey |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,368 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$534,773 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$97,126 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
114 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.6% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
10.7% |
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Rent in New Jersey is around 26% less than in California, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in New Jersey are about 31% lower than in California. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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You’re likely to earn about 6% more in New Jersey than in California. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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The cost of living in New Jersey is about 15% lower than in California. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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New Jersey boasts an unemployment rate about 13% 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.
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Sales tax in New Jersey is 24% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in New Jersey can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in New Jersey are 20% lower than in California. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in New Jersey vs. California
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how New Jersey and California line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
New Jersey |
California |
| Population |
9,290,841 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
22ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
23″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
16.2 |
28.43 |
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The population of New Jersey is approximately 76% lower than the population of California.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential race, both California and New Jersey leaned Democratic.
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In New Jersey, summer highs are around 85°F, close to 87°F in California.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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In the coldest months, New Jersey sees lows of 22°F compared to 59°F in California.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
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Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in New Jersey, which is quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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Each year, New Jersey sees about 23 inches of snowfall, while California averages just 7 inches.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
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New Jersey is a safer choice than California, boasting a lower crime index of 16.2 compared to 28.43.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of California vs. New Jersey
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in New Jersey and California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in New Jersey |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Pleasant weather |
Diversity |
| Abundant recreational options |
World-class entertainment |
| High quality of life |
Leading education |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Superb health care |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. New Jersey
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving California for New Jersey:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in New Jersey |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Congested population |
| Natural disasters |
High cost of living |
| Terrible traffic |
High tax burden |
| Strange laws |
Terrible traffic |
Other things to consider for your California to New Jersey move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
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.
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State licensing:
In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies.
The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a New Jersey moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in New Jersey, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to New Jersey right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in New Jersey
While you’re in New Jersey, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New Jersey
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Silverball Retro Arcade Asbury Park
- Battleship New Jersey
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Newark Museum
Parks in New Jersey
- Branch Brook Park
- Laurel Acres Park
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
- Roosevelt Park
- Bergen County Zoological Park
Sports teams in New Jersey
- New Jersey Devils (NHL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- New York Red Bulls (MLS)
Universities in New Jersey
- Princeton University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Seton Hall University
- Montclair State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to New Jersey?
Do movers transport your car from California to New Jersey?
What are the benefits of moving from California to New Jersey?
An increasing number of people are relocating from California to New Jersey to enjoy all the great benefits New Jersey provides, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and diversity.
Is it cheaper to live in California or New Jersey?
Living in New Jersey usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in New Jersey,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 31% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in New Jersey, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Jersey?
Thinking of moving to New Jersey on your own? You’ll want to earn around $54,567 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,483 per month, or around $7,579 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Trenton and Newark tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In California, 7 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 7 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 7 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 2 moving companies.
Educators and teachers get access to discounts from 2 movers.
Law enforcement personnel qualify for special rates with 4 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When moving from California to New Jersey, you’ll likely pay between $4,154–$8,181 with professional movers, roughly
$3,930 for a moving container, and about
$2,629
for a rental truck.
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