How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to UT 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 Utah?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Utah.
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 |
$1,156 – $4,142 |
$720 – $1,873 |
$570 – $982 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,316 – $5,430 |
$1,269 – $2,630 |
$586 – $1,204 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,867 – $7,784 |
$1,703 – $3,501 |
$705 – $1,400 |
*Estimated costs for a 813-mile move from CA to
UT 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 Utah
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Utah will cost between
$1,156 and
$4,142.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to UT will
range from $2,316 to
$5,430, and a large move from California
to Utah will cost from $3,867
to $7,784.
Cost of moving containers from California to Utah
If you’re moving from California to Utah,
expect to pay between $720
and $1,873 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,269 up to
$2,630.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,703 and
$3,501. 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 Utah
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
$570 and
$982.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $586
and $1,204. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $705 up to
$1,400 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to UT
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to Utah. 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 UT
A relocation from California to Utah comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: California vs. Utah
Comparing expenses in California and Utah 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 |
Utah |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,302 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$517,020 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$86,833 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
105 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.5% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
7.19% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
4.95% |
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Expect to pay around 30% less in rent in Utah 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 33% lower in Utah than in California.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Utah are about 6% lower than in California.
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Living in Utah is about 22% 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 35% lower than California, Utah boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales tax in Utah is 17% lower than in California. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Utah can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 63% lower in Utah 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 Utah 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 Utah stacks up against California across important lifestyle factors:
|
Utah |
California |
| Population |
3,417,734 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60-40 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
90ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
43″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
21.37 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 91% smaller than California, Utah 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, Utah leaned Republican, while California went with Democratic.
-
In Utah, summer highs hover around 90°F, while California sits at 87°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Utah drops to about 17°F while California only reaches 59°F.
Moving to Utah with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
-
You’ll enjoy about 15 inches of rain each year in Utah, compared to 22 inches in California.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
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Every year, Utah gets around 43 inches of snow, much more than the 7 inches that California typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
-
Utah has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 21.37 vs. 28.43.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Utah
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Utah versus California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Utah |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Robust economic growth |
| Pleasant weather |
Abundant outdoor activities |
| Abundant recreational options |
Growing population |
| High quality of life |
Outdoor paradise |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Diverse |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Utah
Moving from California to Utah 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 Utah |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
High cost of housing |
| Natural disasters |
Peculiar liquor laws |
| Terrible traffic |
Dangerous drivers |
| Strange laws |
Huge emphasis on religious identity |
Other things to consider for your California to Utah 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.
-
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.
-
State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Utah, 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.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Utah 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 Utah, 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 Utah 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. In Utah, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. To increase protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company.
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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 Utah
Get ready to discover all that Utah has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Utah
- Natural History Museum of Utah
- Hill Aerospace Museum
- Clark Planetarium
- Goulding’s Trading Post Museum.
- Thanksgiving Point
Parks in Utah
- Red Hills Desert Garden
- Pioneer Park
- Liberty Park
- Ensign Peak Park
- Thunder Junction All Abilities Park
Sports teams in Utah
- Real Salt Lake Soccer (MLS)
- Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League)
- Utah Grizzlies Hockey (ECHL)
- Utah Jazz (NBA)
Universities in Utah
- The University of Utah
- Brigham Young University
- Utah State University
- Weber State University
- Utah Valley University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Utah?
Do movers transport your car from California to Utah?
What are the benefits of moving from California to Utah?
The main reasons people are moving from California to Utah are the amazing upsides of living in Utah, such as robust economic growth and abundant outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Utah?
Living in Utah usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Utah,
with average rent about 30% less and home prices 33% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Utah, 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 Utah?
You should make approximately $70,362 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Utah.
The cost of living in Utah is about $2,538 per month for an individual and $5,934 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Salt Lake City and St. George 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 Utah, expect to spend between
$2,316–$5,430 if using professional movers, about
$1,949 for a moving container, and around
$895
for a rental truck.
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