($1,514) Cost of Moving From California to Utah

Quick answer: The average cost to move from California to Utah ranges from $729 to $7,115 and takes two–seven days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.

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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 Utah to California guide.

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The best California to Utah full-service movers

Thinking about moving from California to Utah? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from California to Utah with these highly rated long-distance moving pros 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
read our full review
(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
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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(866) 935-3437
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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(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in California

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in California, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.

  1. Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  4. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Air 1 Moving & 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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Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 3670248

Years in Business: 14

274 Wattis Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080

Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around San Bruno, CA since 2010. They stand out with a solid reputation, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp from 429 reviews, and a 4.6 average rating on Google from 129 reviews. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, customers frequently praise their professionalism and efficiency. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, along with the specialized capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. Flexible payment options, including cash and credit cards, and no required deposit, further underscore their customer-first approach.

Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

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

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOT #: 3670248
  • State license #: 0190673
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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 starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 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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The best California to Utah 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 Utah.

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

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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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 Utah moving truck rentals

If you're looking to cut costs on your move from California to Utah, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.

Take a look at our top choices for rental 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 Utah labor-only movers

If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.

For a smooth move from California to Utah, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 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 UT 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 Utah?

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

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,514 - $5,266 $944 - $2,429 $732 - $1,274
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,032 - $7,115 $1,681 - $3,208 $729 - $1,514
4+ bedrooms $4,817 - $9,995 $2,255 - $4,275 $961 - $1,798

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 813 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 Utah

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Utah, you can expect prices to land between $1,514 and $5,266. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,032 to $7,115 for the trip from CA to UT. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,817 and $9,995.

Cost of moving containers from California to Utah

When you’re heading from California to Utah, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $944 and $2,429. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,681 and $3,208. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,255 to $4,275. 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 Utah

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 $732 and $1,274. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $729 and $1,514. Moving from California to Utah or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $961 and $1,798.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to UT

Several factors influence the cost of moving from California to Utah. Here’s what can impact your final bill:

  • Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
  • Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in California.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.

What to know before moving from CA to UT

If you’re making the move from California to Utah, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.

Cost of living: California vs. Utah

Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in California and Utah. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:

California Utah
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,302
Average home cost $771,057 $517,020
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $86,833
Cost of Living Index 134 0
Unemployment rate 5.4% 3.5%
Average Sales Tax 8.68% 7.19%
State Income Tax 13.3% 4.95%
  • You’ll pay about 30% less in rent in Utah compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
  • Here’s some good news for your wallet—home prices in Utah are about 33% 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 Utah are about 6% lower than in California.
  • Moving to Utah costs about 100% 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 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.
  • Sales tax in Utah is 17% lower than in California. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Utah could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
  • Income taxes in Utah are 63% lower than in California. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.

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
  • With a population about 91% smaller than California, Utah 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, Utah leaned Republican, while California supported Democratic.
  • Summer highs typically reach about 90ºF in Utah and 87ºF in California. With similar temperatures, you shouldn't have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
  • During winter, temperatures in Utah can drop to around 17ºF, while California usually only experiences lows near 59ºF. Moving to Utah means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
  • In Utah, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year—less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
  • Each year, Utah gets about 43 inches of snow, far more than the 7 inches you might be accustomed to in California. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation, regular upkeep, and dressing warmly.
  • Moving to Utah means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 21.37 versus California’s 28.43, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s comforting to know your new home offers extra security.

Comparing the pros of California vs. Utah

There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in Utah stacks up against 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

Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from California to Utah, keep these tips in mind.

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

  • Weather: Utah's temperatures are extreme, with cold temperatures in winter due to its elevation, and very hot summers statewide (with the exception of mountain areas and high mountain valleys). Utah is usually protected from major blasts of cold air by mountains lying north and east of the state. Utah, like most of the western United States, has few days of thunderstorms. On average there are fewer than 40 days of thunderstorm activity during the year, although these storms can be briefly intense when they do occur.
  • 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 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.
  • State regulator: You can quickly check a Utah moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Utah, 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 Utah 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. 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.
  • 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

While you’re in Utah, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home 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? toggle

If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service California moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from California to Utah? toggle

Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from California to Utah using a top-rated auto transport company.

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

An increasing number of people are relocating from California to Utah to enjoy all the great benefits Utah provides, such as: robust economic growth and abundant outdoor activities.

Is it cheaper to live in California or Utah? toggle

Living in Utah usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Utah, with average rent about 30% less and home prices 32.9% 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? toggle

Thinking of moving to Utah on your own? You’ll want to earn around $61,242 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living on your own, expect to spend about $2,162 per month, or around $4,702 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Salt Lake City and St. George tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.

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