Quick answer: Expect to pay $1,651–$9,531 for a move from Los Angeles to Knoxville, with most moves taking six to 17 days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 2,183 miles.

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

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Los Angeles to Knoxville

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Los Angeles to Knoxville isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

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 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.

Local moving companies servicing Los Angeles to Knoxville moves

When planning a move from Los Angeles to Knoxville, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Los Angeles who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Los Angeles to Knoxville.

  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 Knoxville?

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 $1,566 - $6,622 $1,595 - $3,843 $1,477 - $3,004
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,366 - $9,531 $2,784 - $5,305 $1,651 - $3,504
4+ bedrooms $7,786 - $14,582 $3,524 - $7,782 $2,125 - $4,205
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,183 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 Tennessee

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Tennessee, you can expect prices to land between $1,566 and $6,622. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,366 to $9,531 for the trip from CA to TN. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $7,786 and $14,582.

Cost of moving containers from California to Tennessee

If you're relocating from California to Tennessee, you'll typically spend between $1,595 and $3,843 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,784 up to $5,305. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,524 and $7,782. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

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 $1,477 and $3,004. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,651 and $3,504. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $2,125 up to $4,205 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Los Angeles to Knoxvilletoggle

The cost of Los Angeles movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Los Angeles to Knoxville might cost as little as $1,566, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,944.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Los Angeles, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,477 to $3,879 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Knoxville

Moving from Los Angeles to Knoxville 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 Knoxville, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Los Angeles Knoxville
Average rent cost $2,960 $1,795
Average home value $2,368,088 $350,035
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $61,050
Cost of living (single person) $3,922 $2,184
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,213 $5,200
Unemployment rate 10.6% 4.7%
Sales tax 9.5% 9.25%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Knoxville are 39% 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 Knoxville.
    Home prices in Knoxville are 85.2% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • Income in Knoxville is 18.6% lower than in Los Angeles, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Knoxville — including Regal Cinemas Corp, Regal, and Pilot Flying J — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Knoxville. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 44.3% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • A move to Knoxville 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 43.6% less than what it costs in Los Angeles.
  • The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 55.66% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the city's sales taxes in Knoxville are 2.63% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • One perk of moving to Knoxville is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Los Angeles.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,670.58 in Knoxville 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. Knoxville

Knoxville Los Angeles
Population 190,740 3,820,914
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 8
Walkability score 31 69
Bike friendliness score 30 59
Crime Index 42.54 53.81
Safety Index 57.46 46.19
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Knoxville might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 95% less than Los Angeles.
  • Getting around Knoxville without a car might be more difficult than in Los Angeles. Knoxville has a public transportation score of 4 out of 10, whereas Los Angeles is ranked 8. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Knoxville neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Los Angeles. Based on its score of 31 out of 100, Knoxville isn't as walkable as Los Angeles, which has a score of 69 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Knoxville, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Los Angeles. While Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score of 59 out of 100, Knoxville earned a 30. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Knoxville has a lower crime rate than Los Angeles based on scores of 42.54 and Los Angeles's 53.81, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Knoxville than in Los Angeles, based on Knoxville's safety index of 57.46 versus 46.19 for Los Angeles. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Knoxville has better air quality than in Los Angeles. Knoxville has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Los Angeles. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

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

  • Weather: Best months to move into Knoxville are September, May and October as weather during are considered pleasant. Winters are generally much cooler and less stable, with occasional small amounts of snow.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Tennessee, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Tennessee doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Knoxville without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Knoxville

Ready to relocate to Marble City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Knoxville.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Oak Ridge
  • Maryville
  • Seymour
  • Lenoir City
  • Eagleton Village

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Farragut
  • Oak Ridge
  • Alcoa
  • Louisville
  • Clinton

Things to do in Knoxville

Once you're settled into your new home in Tennessee, it's time to get out and discover what Knoxville has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Knoxville is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Knoxville Museum of Art, East Tennesse Historical Society, Muse Knoxville, Old Smoky Railway Museum, and Art Market Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Lakeshore Park, World's Fair Park, Krutch Park, and Fort Dickerson Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Los Angeles to Knoxville 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 Knoxville?

Because spring and fall moves from Los Angeles to Knoxville 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 Knoxville take?

The 2,183-mile journey from Los Angeles, CA to Knoxville, TN, 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 Knoxville.

Helpful moving resources