Best Movers from California to New Jersey (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: Moving from California to New Jersey usually costs between $2,069 and $9,689, with most moves taking about seven–21 days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from New Jersey to California guide.
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The best California to New Jersey full-service movers
Thinking about moving from California to New Jersey? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.
Kick off your move from California to New Jersey with these highly rated long-distance moving pros 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
- 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 New Jersey moving container companies
Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in California and delivering it to your new place in New Jersey.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best California to New Jersey moving truck rentals
Looking to cut costs on your move from California to New Jersey? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:
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The best California to New Jersey labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from California to New Jersey, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NJ move
How much does it cost to move from California to New Jersey?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to New Jersey. 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 | $1,771 - $7,536 | $1,715 - $4,410 | $1,988 - $3,706 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,927 - $9,689 | $3,295 - $6,429 | $2,069 - $4,640 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $9,939 - $15,960 | $4,155 - $8,868 | $2,779 - $5,473 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,886 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 New Jersey
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to New Jersey will cost between $1,771 and $7,536. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to NJ will range from $4,927 to $9,689, and a large move from California to New Jersey will cost from $9,939 to $15,960.
Cost of moving containers from California to New Jersey
Moving containers from California to New Jersey will cost you $1,715 to $4,410 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $3,295 to $6,429. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $4,155 to $8,868. 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 New Jersey
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 $1,988 and $3,706. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $2,069 and $4,640. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,779 and $5,473.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to NJ
Several factors influence the cost of moving from California to New Jersey. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
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
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in California and New Jersey. 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 | New Jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $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% |
- You’ll pay about 26% less in rent in New Jersey compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- 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.
- Great news—you’re likely to make about 6% more in New Jersey compared to California. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- Moving to New Jersey costs about 15% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
- With an unemployment rate about 13% lower than California, New Jersey boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
- Sales tax in New Jersey is 24% lower than in California. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in New Jersey could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
- 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
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 New Jersey and California compares across key 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 |
- 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.
- In the last presidential election, both California and New Jersey voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in New Jersey is 85ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, New Jersey reaches about 22ºF and California only gets down to 59ºF. Moving to New Jersey with its colder winters means you need to prepare for higher heating costs, possible lifestyle shifts, and more intense weather, but it can also offer unique seasonal experiences and beauty.
- You can expect about 48 inches of annual rainfall in New Jersey versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California. More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
- In New Jersey, it snows about 23 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches of snow. 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.
- New Jersey has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 16.2 vs. 28.43. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it's not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of California vs. New Jersey
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in New Jersey stacks up against 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
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to 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
- Weather: New Jersey summers are typically hot and humid and winters are usually cold. During winter and early spring, New Jersey can experience "nor'easters", which are capable of causing blizzards or flooding throughout the northeastern United States.
- 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: 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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a New Jersey moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: New Jersey 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 New Jersey. 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. 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.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
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
