How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NM move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 370 California moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
-
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.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
-
Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
-
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 New Mexico?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to New Mexico.
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 |
$1,171 – $4,485 |
$829 – $1,923 |
$651 – $1,175 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,433 – $6,016 |
$1,401 – $2,960 |
$655 – $1,396 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,107 – $7,347 |
$1,968 – $3,668 |
$883 – $1,699 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,005-mile move from CA to
NM 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 New Mexico
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to New Mexico typically costs between
$1,171 and
$4,485.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,433
and $6,016
when moving from CA to NM.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to New Mexico,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,107
up to $7,347.
Cost of moving containers from California to New Mexico
If you’re relocating from California to New Mexico,
you’ll typically spend between $829
and $1,923 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,401 up to
$2,960.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,968 and
$3,668. 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 New Mexico
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
$651 and
$1,175.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$655 to
$1,396.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $883 and
$1,699.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to NM
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to New Mexico. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
-
Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in California, which usually means higher prices.
-
Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from CA to NM
Transitioning from California to New Mexico 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. New Mexico
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and New Mexico are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
California |
New Mexico |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$966 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$303,910 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$58,722 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
7.61% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
5.9% |
-
Rent is about 48% less expensive in New Mexico than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
-
Home prices in New Mexico are about 61% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
-
Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in New Mexico are roughly 36% lower than in California.
-
Moving to New Mexico costs about 30% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
-
With an unemployment rate roughly 46% lower than California, New Mexico offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
-
Sales tax in New Mexico is 12% lower than in California, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
-
Income taxes are 56% lower in New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico and California compare.
|
New Mexico |
California |
| Population |
2,113,344 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.9-45.9 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
24″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
38.81 |
28.43 |
-
With a population roughly 95% smaller than California, New Mexico 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.
-
The last presidential election saw both California and New Mexico siding with the Democratic party.
-
The average summer high in New Mexico 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.
-
In the coldest months, New Mexico dips to about 20°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
-
In New Mexico, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
Each year, New Mexico gets about 24 inches of snow, far more than the 7 inches you might be accustomed to in California.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
New Mexico has a higher crime rate than California, with a crime index of 38.81 compared to 28.43.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of California vs. New Mexico
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in New Mexico to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in New Mexico |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Pleasant weather |
Rich culture |
| Abundant recreational options |
Delicious food and wine |
| High quality of life |
Low cost of living |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Abundant outdoor activities |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. New Mexico
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to New Mexico:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in New Mexico |
| High cost of living |
Bad roads |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Lackluster economy |
| Natural disasters |
Scarce job opportunity |
| Terrible traffic |
Slow life |
| Strange laws |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your California to New Mexico 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.
-
State licensing:
Movers that operate within the Land of Enchantment are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a New Mexico moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in New Mexico, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
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 Mexico. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
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 New Mexico
Get excited to explore New Mexico. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in New Mexico
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Roswell Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas
- International UFO Museum and Research Center
Parks in New Mexico
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- Spring River Park and Zoo
- Old Fort Marcy Park
- Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area
- City of Rocks State Park
Sports teams in New Mexico
- Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple-A West)
- New Mexico Ice Wolves (NAHL)
- New Mexico United (USL Championship)
Universities in New Mexico
- University of New Mexico
- New Mexico State University
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Western New Mexico University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to New Mexico?
Do movers transport your car from California to New Mexico?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
California to
New Mexico
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to New Mexico?
Many people are making the move from California to New Mexico to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in New Mexico has to offer, like beautiful landscapes and rich culture.
Is it cheaper to live in California or New Mexico?
Living in New Mexico usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in New Mexico,
with average rent about 48% less and home prices 61% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in New Mexico, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Mexico?
Planning to move to New Mexico? A single adult should aim for an income of around $67,478 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,664 for an individual, or $5,879 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Albuquerque and Las Cruces 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
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When relocating from California to New Mexico, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,433 to
$6,016, roughly
$2,180 for a container move, and close to
$1,025
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
