Best Movers From California to Ohio (2025 Cost Data)

1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
3. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
4. Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
5. Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from California to Ohio

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Ohio, you can expect to spend between $1,297 and $5,317. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,638 to $7,370 on the same route (CA to OH). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Ohio typically runs between $6,702 and $11,635.

Cost of moving containers from California to Ohio

Moving from California to Ohio? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,337 and $3,321. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,376 to $4,648. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,143 up to $6,246. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Ohio

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 $1,340 and $2,539. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,508 and $3,085. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,795 and $3,631.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to OH

There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Ohio will depend on these factors:

• How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
• When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
• Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.

• Rent in Ohio is about 49% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
• Home prices in Ohio are roughly 70% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
• Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Ohio are about 27% lower than in California.
• Moving to Ohio is about 30% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
• Ohio has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 33%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
• Sales tax is 17% lower in Ohio compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
• Income taxes in Ohio are 74% lower than in California. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.

• With a population about 70% smaller than California, Ohio offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
• In the last presidential election, Ohio voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
• Summer highs in Ohio average 84°F, almost the same as 87°F in California. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
• Winter in Ohio can dip to 20°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California. Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
• Expect about 40 inches of rain each year in Ohio — a big shift from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
• In Ohio, it snows about 28 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches. 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.
• Ohio offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 20.76 versus 28.43. You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.

Other things to consider for your California to Ohio move

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
• Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
• State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Ohio moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
• Moving permits: Ohio does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
• Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Ohio right on time. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Museums in Ohio

• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
• Cleveland Museum of Art
• A Christmas Story House
• National Museum of the US Air Force

Parks in Ohio

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park
• Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
• Wayne National Forest
• Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave
• Maumee Bay State Park

Sports teams in Ohio

• Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
• Cleveland Guardians (MLB)
• Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
• Cleveland Browns (NFL)
• Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)

Universities in Ohio

• The Ohio State University
• University of Cincinnati
• Case Western Reserve University
• Kent State University
• Bowling Green State University