How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to OK move
After studying pricing from 370 California movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Oklahoma?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Oklahoma.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,166 – $4,846 |
$981 – $2,364 |
$886 – $1,715 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,770 – $6,615 |
$1,631 – $3,624 |
$997 – $2,021 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,116 – $9,600 |
$2,243 – $4,606 |
$1,147 – $2,396 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,502-mile move from CA to
OK are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to Oklahoma
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Oklahoma will cost between
$1,166 and
$4,846.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to OK will
range from $2,770 to
$6,615, and a large move from California
to Oklahoma will cost from $5,116
to $9,600.
Cost of moving containers from California to Oklahoma
If you’re moving from California to Oklahoma,
expect to pay between $981
and $2,364 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,631 up to
$3,624.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,243 and
$4,606. 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 Oklahoma
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 with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$886 and
$1,715.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $997
and $2,021. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,147 up to
$2,396 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to OK
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to Oklahoma. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in California is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from CA to OK
A relocation from California to Oklahoma comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: California vs. Oklahoma
Comparing expenses in California and Oklahoma shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
California |
Oklahoma |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$934 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$205,968 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$61,364 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
86 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
8.95% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
4.75% |
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Expect to pay around 50% less in rent in Oklahoma than in California, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 73% lower in Oklahoma than in California.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Oklahoma are about 33% lower than in California.
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Living in Oklahoma is about 36% cheaper than California. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate about 39% lower than California, Oklahoma boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. California and Oklahoma have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are 64% lower in Oklahoma than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Oklahoma vs. California
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Oklahoma stacks up against California across important lifestyle factors:
|
Oklahoma |
California |
| Population |
4,053,824 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 66-34 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
93ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
26ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
39″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
27.52 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 90% smaller than California, Oklahoma offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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In the most recent presidential election, Oklahoma leaned Republican, while California went with Democratic.
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Oklahoma averages 93°F in summer compared to 87°F in California.
That extra heat means more sunshine and outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
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During the coldest part of the year, Oklahoma drops to about 26°F while California only reaches 59°F.
Moving to Oklahoma with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
-
Expect about 39 inches of rain each year in Oklahoma, a noticeable difference from the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
In Oklahoma, you’ll get about 6 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, California averages around 7 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
Oklahoma and California have similar crime rates (27.52 vs. 28.43).
Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it’s important to research at the city or neighborhood level, as well.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Oklahoma
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Oklahoma versus California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Oklahoma |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Pleasant weather |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant recreational options |
Delicious barbecue |
| High quality of life |
Rapid earnings growth |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Oklahoma
Moving from California to Oklahoma comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Oklahoma |
| High cost of living |
Dull landscape |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Destructive weather |
| Natural disasters |
Poor education |
| Terrible traffic |
Dangerous drivers |
| Strange laws |
Low diversity |
Other things to consider for your California to Oklahoma move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
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Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
In Oklahoma, in-state household goods movers are certified and licensed by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Oklahoma moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Oklahoma, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Oklahoma without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Opting for Released Value Protection is the most cost-effective choice since it comes at no extra expense. Movers provide this option without additional charges, but the coverage it offers is minimal. With Released Value Protection, the mover’s liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover were to lose or damage a set of fine china weighing 15 pounds, you would only be compensated $9 (60 cents x 15 pounds). If you require coverage for the full value of your items, it is advisable to discuss alternative options with the moving company or explore third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Oklahoma
Get ready to discover all that Oklahoma has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
- Philbrook Museum of Art
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Science Museum Oklahoma
- Gilcrease Museum
Parks in Oklahoma
- Gathering Place
- Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
- Turner Falls Park
- Medicine Park
- Woodward Park
Sports teams in Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA)
- Oklahoma City Blue (NBA G League)
- Oklahoma Sooners (NCAA)
- Oklahoma State Cowboys (NCAA)
Universities in Oklahoma
- The University of Oklahoma
- Oklahoma State University
- The University of Tulsa
- The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Oral Roberts University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Oklahoma?
Do movers transport your car from California to Oklahoma?
What are the benefits of moving from California to Oklahoma?
The main reasons people are moving from California to Oklahoma are the amazing upsides of living in Oklahoma, such as ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Oklahoma?
Living in Oklahoma usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Oklahoma,
with average rent about 50% less and home prices 73% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Oklahoma, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Oklahoma?
You should make approximately $60,583 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Oklahoma.
The cost of living in Oklahoma is about $2,596 per month for an individual and $5,168 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Some movers in California provide budget-friendly deals.
In California, 7 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 7 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 7 movers.
Student savings are available through 2 moving providers.
Teacher and educator discounts can be found with 2 movers.
Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 4 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When moving from California to Oklahoma, expect to spend between
$2,770–$6,615 if using professional movers, about
$2,627 for a moving container, and around
$1,509
for a rental truck.
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