($1,646) Cost of Moving From California to Tennessee

Quick answer: Moving from California to Tennessee typically costs between $1,601 and $8,780 and usually takes six–17 days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Tennessee to California guide.

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The best California to Tennessee full-service movers

Planning a move from California to Tennessee? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.

Start your move from California to Tennessee with these top-rated long-distance movers in California.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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The best local moving companies in California

Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in California, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.

  1. Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Best California Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 3489907

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

15 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92591
Get a Quote

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Best California Movers & Storage
  • An Moving Forward
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Meathead Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 921143

Years in Business: 27

3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.

Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Meathead Packers
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Republic Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 3369820

Years in Business: 31

8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154

Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.

Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 3369820
  • State license #: 0190491
  • DOD certified

Alternative Business Names

  • Lovejoy's Family Moving
  • Republic Relocation Services

Local Associations

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Air 1 Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 1095485

Years in Business: 22

9556 Cozycroft Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311

Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.

Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
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All Star Movers & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 2971368

Years in Business: 10

101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA 94568

All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.

Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage

Additional Information

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The best California to Tennessee moving container companies

Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in California and delivering it to your new place in Tennessee.

Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best California to Tennessee moving truck rentals

Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from California to Tennessee, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.

We like these rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best California to Tennessee labor-only movers

If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.

Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from California to Tennessee:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 22
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to TN 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.

How much does it cost to move from California to Tennessee?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Tennessee with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,646 - $6,399 $1,466 - $3,521 $1,555 - $2,915
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,524 - $8,780 $2,553 - $5,657 $1,601 - $3,401
4+ bedrooms $8,489 - $14,228 $3,795 - $7,576 $2,188 - $4,295

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,161 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from California to Tennessee

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Tennessee typically costs between $1,646 and $6,399. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,524 and $8,780 when moving from CA to TN. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Tennessee, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,489 up to $14,228.

Cost of moving containers from California to Tennessee

When you’re heading from California to Tennessee, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,466 and $3,521. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,553 and $5,657. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,795 to $7,576. 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 Tennessee

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 $1,555 and $2,915. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,601 and $3,401. Planning a move from California to Tennessee or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,188 up to $4,295 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to TN

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to Tennessee. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in California.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from CA to TN

If you’re moving to Tennessee from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: California vs. Tennessee

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in California and Tennessee. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

California Tennessee
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,047
Average home cost $771,057 $319,208
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $64,035
Cost of Living Index 134 90
Unemployment rate 5.4% 3.3%
Average Sales Tax 8.68% 9.55%
State Income Tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • You’ll pay about 44% less in rent in Tennessee compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
  • Here’s some good news for your wallet—home prices in Tennessee are about 59% lower than in California. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
  • Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Tennessee are about 30% lower than in California.
  • Moving to Tennessee costs about 33% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
  • With an unemployment rate about 39% lower than California, Tennessee boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
  • Sales taxes are 10% higher in Tennessee than in California, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
  • One big perk of moving to Tennessee is there’s no state income tax. That means you get to keep more of your money, whether you’re earning a salary, freelancing, or living off retirement income.

How life is different in Tennessee vs. California

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in Tennessee versus California across some essential lifestyle factors:

Tennessee California
Population 7,126,489 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 64-36 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 88ºF 87ºF
Winter low 27ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 53" 22"
Annual snow 5" 7"
Crime index 29.24 28.43
  • With a population roughly 82% smaller than California, Tennessee gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses. Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
  • In the most recent presidential election, Tennessee leaned Republican, while California went with Democratic.
  • Summer temperatures usually hit around 88ºF in Tennessee and 87ºF in California. If those numbers are close, you’ll likely have an easy time getting used to the new climate. Just don’t forget to think about humidity, typical weather, and energy costs to get the full picture of summer in your new place.
  • In the coldest months, temperatures in Tennessee can dip to around 27ºF, while California typically only sees lows near 59ºF. Relocating to Tennessee means getting used to colder winters, which might mean higher heating bills, new routines, and harsher weather. On the upside, you’ll also get to experience the seasonal charm and activities that come with the snow.
  • for about 53 inches of rain each year in Tennessee—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 Tennessee, you can expect about 5 inches of snow each year. By comparison, California typically gets around 7 inches annually. Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with any unexpected weather challenges.
  • Both Tennessee and California share a crime rate of 28.43. However, crime levels can vary widely between different cities and neighborhoods, so it’s a good idea to look up local crime stats for a clearer picture.

Comparing the pros of California vs. Tennessee

Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Tennessee compared to California.

Pros of living in California Pros of living in Tennessee
Ample economic opportunity Abundant recreational opportunities
Pleasant weather No income taxes
Abundant recreational options Legendary music scene
High quality of life Natural beauty and parks galore
Fresh and healthy foods Delicious southern comfort food

Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Tennessee

Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to Tennessee.

Cons of living in California Cons of living in Tennessee
High cost of living Tendency for severe weather
Heavy tax burdens Oppressive summer heat and humidity
Natural disasters Abundant presence of nuclear power plants
Terrible traffic Traffic congestion
Strange laws High urban crime rates

Other things to consider for your California to Tennessee move

  • Weather: Most of Tennessee has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters, with the exception of some of the higher elevations in the Appalachians, which has mild summers and cool winters. The state averages about 15 tornadoes a year.
  • HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
  • 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
  • State regulator: You can quickly check a Tennessee moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Tennessee, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • 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 Tennessee right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.

Things to do in Tennessee

Get ready to discover Tennessee. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:

Museums in Tennessee

  • Titanic Museum Attraction
  • Graceland
  • Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Lotz House Museum
  • National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel

Parks in Tennessee

  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
  • Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
  • Chimneys Picnic Area
  • Winged Deer Park
  • Steele Creek Park

Sports Teams in Tennessee

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball (NBA)
  • Nashville Predators Hockey (NHL)
  • Nashville SC (MLS)
  • Tennessee TItans (NFL)

Universities in Tennessee

  • Vanderbilt University
  • The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • The University of Tennessee at Martin
  • The University of Memphis
  • Middle Tennessee State University

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from California to Tennessee? toggle

Choosing a full-service California moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from California to Tennessee? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from California to Tennessee on your own through a top car shipping company.

What are the benefits of moving from California to Tennessee? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from California to Tennessee to enjoy all the perks that come with living in Tennessee, such as: abundant recreational opportunities and no income taxes.

Is it cheaper to live in California or Tennessee? toggle

Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Tennessee, with average rent about 44% less and home prices 58.6% lower than in California. Tennessee has no income tax.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Tennessee? toggle

If you’re planning to live solo in Tennessee, a comfortable income is around $63,555. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $2,475 on your own, or $6,425 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Nashville and Memphis typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources