Quick answer: For a 2,186-mile move from Los Angeles to Dayton, expect to spend around $1,667–$9,064 and six to 17 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Dayton to Los Angeles guide.

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

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Los Angeles to Dayton

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from Los Angeles to Dayton can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

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 OH 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.

The top local movers servicing Los Angeles to Dayton moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Los Angeles that also handles long-distance moves to Dayton. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Los Angeles who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Los Angeles to Dayton.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo's Moving Company Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Move Central Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Prodigy Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/sekamoving, https://twitter.com/SekaMoving/
88% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend.
Clients appreciate Seka's responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation


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
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RigosMovingAndStorage/,
80% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo's Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items.
Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo's stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo's would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

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
https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarMoving/, https://twitter.com/NorthStarMoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call NorthStar Moving Company a standout in the moving industry, praising efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, quick process, and communication. Out of 1,215 reviews, 92% gave positive input. Customers frequently thank staff for protecting their belongings, arriving promptly, and making stressful transitions much easier.
Rates are seen as competitive or a good value, especially compared to other movers who charge more or damage items. Communication with office staff and movers is often highlighted as a reassurance during stressful moves, with efficient booking and helpful support being noted advantages. Negative feedback appears in only 6% of responses, with the biggest concerns being damaged items, higher-than-expected charges, and some delayed arrivals or deliveries. A few customers experienced discrepancies between estimates and final pricing, or had items lost or mishandled. Others mentioned follow-up to resolve issues but found the claims process or communication for resolution challenging. NorthStar earns its reputation by consistently going above and beyond for most customers, solving moving day obstacles, and delivering quick, safe service at fair prices. Compared to many moving operations, NorthStar offers greater reliability, more careful crews, and much better results in both local and long-distance jobs. Customers said they’d continue to choose NorthStar, while advising others to keep an eye on pricing details and final inventory. The overwhelmingly positive feedback positions this company as a top choice in professional moving services.
Show more
Get a Quote (213) 622-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 1836576


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064228921165,
67% of all reviews were positive
28% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A reputation built on hustle, but not without headaches—Move Central Moving & Storage analyzed 1,279 reviews with 67% praising their services. People call out efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, quick-moving crews, and reliable communication as top strengths. Customers often highlight how movers protect fragile items and show respect throughout the process.
Yet, difficult stories are all too common and focus on high final costs, surprise charges, and damage to belongings. Negative feedback consistently reports being billed far over initial quotes, with some mentioning extra fees that weren’t clear at booking. Damage during moves and lackluster resolution of claims are also hot topics. While the company stands out for working quickly and having courteous staff, the challenges around price accuracy and risk of breakage make the experience less predictable compared to competitors. Most choose them for their fast, friendly approach, but buyers should watch for cost details and pay attention to documentation before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 827-8950

Company Info

State license #: 0191020

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2365576

Alternate Names: Move Central Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/prodigymove/, https://twitter.com/_prodigymoving_
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When moving day arrives, most customers describe Prodigy Moving & Storage as a well-oiled, professional operation. Out of 1,834 customer feedback entries, over 95% reported a positive experience. Clients consistently praise the teams for speed, careful handling, courteous staff, and clear communication.
Crews arrive on time, work quickly, and show particular attention to protecting furniture and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful coordination, efficient processes, and staff who make a notoriously stressful task simple and manageable. Prodigy’s service quality and consistency put it ahead of most moving companies in the region. Some negative feedback points to extra charges, lost or damaged items, and—less often—problems with communication or claims resolution. The most common complaints are surprise fees or rare mishandling of possessions. Compared to the industry, Prodigy stands out for its exceptional reliability, but as with any moving company, occasional mistakes can happen and a few cases reported difficulty resolving those. For those seeking an efficient, attentive, and professional move, Prodigy Moving & Storage is widely trusted and repeatedly recommended by both first-time and repeat customers.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 991-6683

Company Info

State license #: 191106

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 3983945


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles to Dayton?

Los Angeles movers charge $100 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 $1,614 - $6,622 $1,535 - $3,805 $1,602 - $3,034
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,585 - $9,064 $2,811 - $5,751 $1,667 - $3,683
4+ bedrooms $7,786 - $15,010 $3,635 - $7,782 $2,168 - $4,424
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,186 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 Ohio

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Ohio, you can expect to spend between $1,614 and $6,622. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,585 to $9,064 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 $7,786 and $15,010.

Cost of moving containers from California to Ohio

Moving from California to Ohio? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,535 and $3,805. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,811 to $5,751. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,635 up to $7,782. 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

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 $1,602 and $3,034 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,667 to $3,683. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,168 to $4,424.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors that influence moving costs from Los Angeles to Daytontoggle

The cost of Los Angeles movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Los Angeles to Dayton might cost just $1,614 for a one-bedroom, but up to $13,408 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Los Angeles, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,602 and $3,761, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Dayton

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

Check out how Los Angeles compares to Dayton so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Los Angeles Dayton
Average rent cost $2,960 $925
Average home value $2,368,088 $135,815
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $62,673
Cost of living (single person) $3,922 $1,593
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,213 $3,788
Unemployment rate 10.6% 6.8%
Sales tax 9.5% 7.5%
State income tax 13.3% 3.5%
  • Rent prices in Dayton are 69% lower than in Los Angeles, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Dayton.
    Home prices in Dayton are 94.3% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • Income in Dayton is 16.4% lower than in Los Angeles, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Dayton — including Morgan Linen & Uniform Services, Premier Physicians, and Maple Timber Acquisition LLC — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Dayton. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 59.4% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • A move to Dayton 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 58.9% less than what it costs in Los Angeles.
  • The unemployment rate in Dayton is 35.85% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Dayton, since the city's sales taxes in Dayton are 21.05% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • One perk of moving to Dayton is paying less in state income taxes, which are 73.68% lower than in Los Angeles.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,218.51 in Dayton to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Los Angeles.

How life is different in Los Angeles vs. Dayton

Dayton Los Angeles
Population 137,644 3,820,914
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 8
Walkability score 45 69
Bike friendliness score 47 59
Crime Index 4.0 53.81
Safety Index 40.68 46.19
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • Dayton's population is about 96% less than Los Angeles.
  • Dayton's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Los Angeles's higher score of 8.
  • Dayton is less walkable than Los Angeles with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Los Angeles's 69 out of 100.
  • Dayton has a bike-friendliness score 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Los Angeles, which has a score of 59 out of 100.
  • Dayton's crime rate is lower than Los Angeles with a score of 4.0 compared to Los Angeles's 53.81. This means that Dayton neighborhoods are safer than 4.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81%.
  • Dayton is considered to be less safe than Los Angeles with a score of 40.68 vs Los Angeles's 46.19.
  • Air quality in Dayton is moderate, and in Los Angeles it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Los Angeles vs. Dayton move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the best months to move to Dayton.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Ohio moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Ohio, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Dayton Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Dayton

With your sights set on Gem City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Dayton.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Oakwood
  • Centerville
  • Springboro
  • Five Points
  • Bellbrook

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Downtown
  • Webster Station
  • Oregon District
  • Shroyer Park
  • Five Oaks

Things to do in Dayton

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Dayton include museums and art centers like the National Museum of the US Air Force, America's Packard Museum - The Citizens Motorcar Co., Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Dayton International Peace Museum, and British Transportation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, RiverScape MetroPark, and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Dayton Dragons (Baseball-Midwest League) and Wright State Raiders (Horizon League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Los Angeles to Dayton?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Los Angeles to Dayton You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Los Angeles.

When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Dayton?

Because spring and fall moves from Los Angeles to Dayton are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Los Angeles to Dayton take?

The 2,186-mile journey from Los Angeles, CA to Dayton, OH, typically takes six to 17 days. Some movers in Los Angeles offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Dayton.

Helpful moving resources