Quick answer: A move from Irvine to New York City costs $2,087–$10,005 and takes seven to 21 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 2,787-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from New York City to Irvine guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Irvine to New York City

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Irvine to go to New York City can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NY movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies in Irvine

  1. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Merit Moving Systems: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Maison Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.
Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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Get a Quote

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
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/meatheadmovers?lang=en
77% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process.
On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
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Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful.
Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
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Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057481208808, https://twitter.com/meritmovingsyst
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Merit Moving Systems stands out for smooth coordination and a dedicated customer-focused team. Of the 258 customer inputs analyzed, 95.3% express positive experiences. Customers frequently highlight prompt and friendly communication, consistent professionalism, careful handling of items, speedy service, and movers who work efficiently.
Many stress that their property arrived safely, with no or minimal damage, and that the moving crews were courteous and respectful throughout. A substantial number also mention how staff provided regular updates and accommodated last-minute timeline shifts. On the downside, a small percentage report cases of belongings being damaged, items lost or misplaced, or surprise charges that were not clearly explained beforehand. Most criticism centers on damage or incomplete claims resolution, with some reviewers citing miscommunication regarding insurance or inventory. Compared to typical moving companies, Merit receives more praise for communication and professionalism, though negative feedback follows common moving industry complaints about damage and claims. For those seeking a moving partner that values customer interaction and efficiency, Merit matches or exceeds industry standards in key service areas.
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Get a Quote (855) 950-4471

Company Info

State license #: 0192009

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 1839600

Alternate Names: Merit Moving & Logistics LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/maisonmoving/, https://twitter.com/MaisonMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word spreads fast about a moving company that gets the job done. Out of 293 customer reviews, Maison Moving earned high marks, with 84% giving glowing feedback. Customers repeatedly mention the efficiency, professionalism, and care shown by the movers, highlighting strong communication, timely arrivals, and careful handling of belongings.
Many found booking straightforward, pricing transparent, and crews helpful and polite. Moving day stresses were often eased by their quick, organized approach. Negative feedback, making up 14% of input, centered on damaged or missing items and rare delays or unprepared crews. Some clients were frustrated by the claims process or communication breakdowns after problems. Only 1% described neutral experiences, usually pointing out minor issues like unexpected fees or average service. Compared to others, Maison Moving stands out for its reliable, efficient service but could improve on accountability and claims handling when things go wrong.
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Get a Quote (800) 832-5950

Company Info

State license #: 0190726

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 76628

Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc, College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County, Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Irvine to New York City?

Irvine movers charge $75 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,686 - $6,903 $1,711 - $4,308 $1,832 - $3,811
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,935 - $10,005 $3,005 - $6,599 $2,087 - $4,404
4+ bedrooms $9,653 - $14,744 $4,231 - $8,825 $2,482 - $5,137
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,787 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to New York

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to New York, you can expect prices to land between $1,686 and $6,903. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,935 to $10,005 for the trip from CA to NY. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $9,653 and $14,744.

Cost of moving containers from California to New York

When you’re heading from California to New York, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,711 and $4,308. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $3,005 and $6,599. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,231 to $8,825. 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 York

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,832 and $3,811 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $2,087 to $4,404. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,482 to $5,137.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Irvine to New York City movetoggle

The cost of Irvine movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Irvine to New York City can be as low as $1,686 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,354.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Irvine so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,832 to $5,127. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Irvine to New York City

Moving from Irvine to New York City means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Irvine than in New York City, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Irvine compares to New York City so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Irvine New York City
Average rent cost $4,000 $4,340
Average home value $1,561,760 $752,778
Average income (per capita) $114,027 $78,058
Cost of living (single person) $9,167 $5,683
Cost of living (family of 4) $18,000 $15,081
Unemployment rate 5.4% 11.2%
Sales tax 7.75% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 10.9%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in New York City, since prices are typically 9% higher than in Irvine.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in New York City.
    Home prices in New York City are 51.8% lower than in Irvine.
  • Income in New York City is 31.5% lower than in Irvine, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in New York City — including IBM, PepsiCo, and J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in New York City. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 38.0% lower than in Irvine.
  • A move to New York City can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 16.2% less than what it costs in Irvine.
  • The unemployment rate in New York City is 107.41% higher than in Irvine.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in New York City, since its sales taxes are 3.23% higher than what you are paying in Irvine.
  • One perk of moving to New York City is paying less in state income taxes, which are 18.05% lower than in Irvine.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,859.82 in New York City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Irvine.

How life is different in Irvine vs. New York City

New York City Irvine
Population 8,258,035 307,670
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 10 4
Walkability score 88 43
Bike friendliness score 69 69
Crime Index 50.83 31.01
Safety Index 49.17 68.99
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of New York City is about 2,584% greater than Irvine, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • New York City offers better access to buses and trains than Irvine, based on public transportation ratings. New York City has a transit score of 10 out of 10 compared to 4 in Irvine. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in New York City means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Irvine. New York City is considered more walkable than Irvine, with a score of 88 out of 100 versus 43 out of 100 in Irvine. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • New York City and Irvine are similarly bike-friendly based on their rating of 69. Bike-friendliness scores between 50 and 100 indicate varying levels of infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike lanes and roadway connectivity. Cities with scores under 50 are considered more car-dependent.
  • The crime rate in New York City is higher than in Irvine, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 50.83 in New York City, it is 31.01 in Irvine. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in New York City. With a crime index of 49.17, New York City ranks lower in overall safety than Irvine, whose index is 68.99. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in New York City and Irvine is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Irvine vs. New York City move

  • Weather: New York City tends to have chilly and damp winters and rather hot summers. New York City tends to have warm and humid summers with mixes of rain, and very cold, snowy, and windy winters. The city is generally cloudy year-round. Temperatures typically vary from 26°F to 87°F. Temps are rarely below 10°F or above 95°F.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a New York moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: New York does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to New York City. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in New York City

Now that you've decided to make the move to Big Apple, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in New York City.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Astoria, Queens
  • Lower East Side, Manhattan
  • Murray Hill, Manhattan
  • Upper East Side, Manhattan
  • Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Battery Park City, Manhattan
  • Forest Hills, Queens
  • Great Kills, Staten Island
  • Park Slope, Brooklyn
  • Riverdale, Bronx

Things to do in New York City

After settling into your new New York home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, New York City has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: New York City features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Met Cloisters, New York Public Library, and Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Central Park, The High Line, Bryant Park, and Washington Square Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Brooklyn Nets (NBA), Long Island Nets (NBA G League), New York City FC (MLS), or New York Giants (NFL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Irvine to New York City?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Irvine to New York City are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Irvine. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Irvine to New York City?

Because most people are moving from Irvine to New York City in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Irvine to New York City take?

Moving from Irvine, CA to New York City, NY covers 2,787 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days Need to move faster? Some Irvine movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in New York City.

Helpful moving resources