Local moving companies in California
When you are heading from California to New York City, NY, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to New York City, NY.
- Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191663
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 3075110
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to New York City, NY
See the table below for average move cost ranges from California to New York City, NY, organized by service type and the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,391 – $5,925 | $1,441 – $3,350 | $1,546 – $2,879 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,114 – $7,697 | $2,579 – $5,141 | $1,708 – $3,571 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,740 – $12,051 | $3,426 – $7,092 | $2,011 – $4,472 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,901-mile move from California to New York City, NY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to New York City, NY
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to New York City, NY, will cost between $1,391 and $5,925. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $4,114 to $7,697, and a large move will cost from $7,740 to $12,051.
Cost of moving containers from California to New York City, NY
If you’re moving from California to New York City, NY, expect to pay between $1,441 and $3,350 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,579 up to $5,141. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,426 and $7,092. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to New York City, NY
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 from California to New York City, NY, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,546 and $2,879. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,708 and $3,571. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,011 up to $4,472 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from California to New York City, NY
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| All Star Movers & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rigo’s Moving Company Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
From our review of 3,180 movers, see how California movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to New York City, NY
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in New York City, NY to what you’re used to in California. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: California vs. New York City, NY
| California | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $4,340 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $752,778 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $78,058 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 172 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 11.2% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 10.9% |
New York City sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in New York City is about 134% higher than in California, so make sure to budget extra for your monthly rent.
- Home prices in New York City are similar to those in California, so you should expect a similar housing market. However, be sure to watch local market trends, as they could affect your home budget.
- Salaries in New York City are usually about 15% lower than in California. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you relocate.
- Unemployment in New York City is about 107% higher than in California, so the job market may be more competitive. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Income taxes are 18% lower in New York than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in New York City from California
| New York City | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,258,035 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 76-23 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 26ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 47″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 25″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 50.83 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the most recent presidential race, both California and New York leaned Democratic.
- Summers in New York City usually hit highs of 84ºF, right in line with the average 87ºF you’re used to in California. So, you can expect a smooth transition in terms of temperature. Still, don’t forget to factor in the local humidity, typical weather patterns, and changes in energy costs to get a full sense of what summer will really feel like in your new place.
- Winter in New York City packs a colder punch, often dipping to lows of 26ºF, which is quite a bit chillier than the 59ºF winters you’re used to in California. Be prepared for those frosty months with potentially higher heating costs and a few changes to your daily routine. On the bright side, New York City offers crisp air, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy.
- Expect around 47 inches of rain each year in New York City, which is quite a bit more than the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. With the extra rainfall comes lusher landscapes and more rainy days, so be sure to add rain gear to your wardrobe and get ready to embrace life in a wetter, greener setting.
- Each year, New York City sees about 25 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.
- Crime rates in New York City are higher than in California, with a crime index of 50.83 compared to 28.43. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in New York City
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, New York City truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in New York City
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- The Met Cloisters
- New York Public Library
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Parks in New York City
- Central Park
- The High Line
- Bryant Park
- Washington Square Park
- Hudson River Park
Sports teams in New York City
- Brooklyn Nets (NBA)
- Long Island Nets (NBA G League)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York City
- New York University
- Nyack College
- Pace University
- Rockefeller University
- Wagner College
Other considerations when moving to New York City, NY
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’s rules before moving day.
- State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Verify your New York moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: New York does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to New York right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage 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: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to New York City take?
How long it takes to move from California to New York City, NY depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
Planning a move from northern California to New York City? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to New York City from California can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to New York City?
With a 2,901-mile move from California to New York City, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to New York City, NY?
Summer highs in New York City can hit 84°F, while winter lows drop to 26°F. That’s why most people moving from California to New York City choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.
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