How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to OR move
Using rate data from 370 California movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Oregon?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to Oregon with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,156 – $3,639 |
$675 – $1,749 |
$481 – $891 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,090 – $5,105 |
$1,215 – $2,374 |
$519 – $995 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,784 – $7,388 |
$1,743 – $3,077 |
$635 – $1,203 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 667-mile move from CA to
OR, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to Oregon
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Oregon,
you can expect to spend between $1,156
and $3,639.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,090 to
$5,105 on the same route
(CA to OR). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to Oregon typically runs between
$3,784 and
$7,388.
Cost of moving containers from California to Oregon
Moving from California to Oregon? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $675 and
$1,749. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,215 to
$2,374. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,743 up to
$3,077. 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 Oregon
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
$481 and
$891.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$519 and
$995.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $635 and
$1,203.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to OR
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Oregon 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.
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When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from CA to OR
Moving between California and Oregon involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. Oregon
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and Oregon. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
California |
Oregon |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,373 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$492,683 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$76,632 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
4.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
9.9% |
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Rent in Oregon is about 26% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Oregon are roughly 36% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
-
Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Oregon are about 17% lower than in California.
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Moving to Oregon is about 25% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Oregon has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 26%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
-
Oregon doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to California.
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Income taxes in Oregon are 26% 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.
How life is different in Oregon vs. California
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Oregon differs from California in these areas.
|
Oregon |
California |
| Population |
4,233,358 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 56-44 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
31ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
41″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
13″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
32.78 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 89% smaller than California, Oregon 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, both California and Oregon voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Oregon average 82°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 Oregon can dip to 31°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 41 inches of rain each year in Oregon — 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 Oregon, it snows about 13 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.
-
Oregon reports a higher crime rate than California, with a crime index of 32.78 versus 28.43.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Oregon
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Oregon stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Oregon |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Pleasant weather |
Delicious and authentic wineries |
| Abundant recreational options |
Beautiful summer weather |
| High quality of life |
No sales tax |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Oregon
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to Oregon, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Oregon |
| High cost of living |
Difficult housing market |
| Heavy tax burdens |
High cost of living |
| Natural disasters |
Poor quality education |
| Terrible traffic |
Low marks for personal safety |
| Strange laws |
Heavy tax burden |
Other things to consider for your California to Oregon 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.
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State licensing:
Moving companies headquartered in Oregon must possess an up-to-date USDOT Number as well as a license issued by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Oregon moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
Oregon 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 Oregon right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Released Value Protection is a cost-effective choice as it comes at no extra cost. 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.
-
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.
Things to do in Oregon
Get ready to discover Oregon. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Oregon
- High Desert Museum
- Lincoln City Glass Center
- Camp 18 Museum
- Seaside Inverted Experience
- Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals
Parks in Oregon
- Washington Park
- Lithia Park
- Rood Bridge Park
- Tualatin Hills Nature Park
- Forest Park
Sports teams in Oregon
- Portland Timbers (MLS)
- Portland Trailblazers (NBA)
- Oregon Ducks (NCAA)
- Oregon State Beavers (NCAA)
Universities in Oregon
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Portland State University
- Oregon Health & Science University
- Reed College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Oregon?
Do movers transport your car from California to Oregon?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from California to Oregon
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Oregon?
More and more folks are relocating from California to Oregon to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as beautiful landscapes and delicious and authentic wineries.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Oregon?
Living in Oregon usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Oregon,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 36% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Oregon, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Oregon?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Oregon, aim for an income of around $74,159 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,006 if you’re flying solo, or $5,695 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Mount Hood Village and Portland usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in California.
There are 7 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 7 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 2 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 4 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When planning a move from California to Oregon, professional movers typically run between
$2,090 and $5,105, a moving container averages about
$1,794, and a rental truck is around
$757.
Fact Checked by:
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