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($1,300) Movers From California to Arlington, VA

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,789 miles from California to Arlington, VA typically costs from $1,658 to $7,563. The journey usually takes seven–21 days, with final pricing influenced by timing, how much you’re moving, and if you go DIY or professional.
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Best movers from California to Arlington, VA

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from California to Arlington, VA

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,789-mile move from California to Arlington, VA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We aggregate thousands of verified prices from movers across the U.S. and update them monthly to capture seasonal patterns and market movement. Your final bill can vary with shipment size, optional services, access/parking hurdles, fuel rates, and scheduling. For the clearest picture, compare quotes from multiple companies.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,473 – $5,911
  • Moving Container $1,954 – $3,727
  • Rental Truck $1,427 – $2,738
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,996 – $7,563
  • Moving Container $2,316 – $5,190
  • Rental Truck $1,658 – $3,327
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,231 – $12,194
  • Moving Container $3,461 – $7,080
  • Rental Truck $1,953 – $4,169
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
North American Van Lines
Linda, CA Fair Lakes, VA
2 Bedrooms
Nov 25, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
West Covina, CA George Mason, VA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 02, 2025
Safeway Moving
San Anselmo, CA Franklin Farm, VA
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 01, 2025
United Van Lines
Orinda, CA The Plains, VA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
Roadway Moving
South San Francisco, CA Lorton, VA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
American Van Lines
Healdsburg, CA Stone Ridge, VA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 06, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Santa Cruz, CA Stafford Courthouse, VA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Cowan, CA Mason Neck, VA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Portola Valley, CA Leesburg, VA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
BLVD Moving
Palm Springs, CA Tysons, VA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 04, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Arlington, VA, to California guide .

Local moving companies in California

When you’re moving from California to Arlington, VA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Golden State to the vibrant .

Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Arlington, VA.

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.7% of all reviews were positive
3.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving customers set All Star Movers & Storage apart from the crowd. Out of 421 reviews, 95.7% praised the company for efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, rapid moves, and strong communication. Customers consistently mention that crews show up on time, finish faster than expected, and handle belongings with care. Staff are courteous, responsive, and easy to work with. A small portion (3.8%) of feedback points to disappointment with estimate accuracy, damage to items, or surprise extra charges. Few reviewers noted moving costs exceeded quotes or felt work was rushed, sometimes resulting in minor damage. Only two customers (0.5%) shared neutral experiences, often related to pricing clarity. Compared to many movers in the region, All Star stands out for hassle-free service, transparent rates, and reliable teams. While a handful of customers experienced issues, the vast majority were relieved by stress-free moves and recommend this company as a top choice.
Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Company Info

State license #: 0191302

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2971368

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
12.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—fast, careful, and professional. Across 534 customer accounts, 85% were satisfied with Meathead Movers, who consistently impress with prompt, efficient service, courteous staff, careful attention to belongings, and effective communication. Many point to their speed, skill, and ability to reduce moving stress as unmatched compared to other movers. Staff go out of their way to ensure everything is handled safely and customers feel supported throughout. Most praise the company’s organization and transparency, with workers often finishing ahead of schedule and providing clear updates. While Meathead stands out for reliability, a number of customers highlighted problems including damage to items, higher-than-expected costs than initial estimates, and issues with packing quality—especially when using packing services. Some experienced final bills much greater than the quotes they received, contributing to frustration. A few customers also reported items arriving broken or poor claim handling after reporting damage. Compared to other moving firms, feedback shows Meathead’s team typically provides a smoother, faster, and friendlier move—but attention to better estimate accuracy and meticulous packing would boost trust even further.
Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

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
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% 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.
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

Cost to move from California to Arlington, VA

This table details typical cost ranges to move from California to Arlington, VA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,300 – $5,269 $1,428 – $3,423 $1,427 – $2,911
2-3 bedrooms $3,996 – $7,563 $2,316 – $5,190 $1,658 – $3,327
4+ bedrooms $7,231 – $12,194 $3,461 – $7,080 $1,953 – $4,169

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,789-mile move from California to Arlington, VA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Arlington, VA

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Arlington, VA, typically costs between $1,300 and $5,269. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,996 and $7,563. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Arlington, VA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,231 up to $12,194.

Cost of moving containers from California to Arlington, VA

When relocating from California to Arlington, VA, you’ll typically spend between $1,428 and $3,423 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,316 up to $5,190. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,461 and $7,080. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Arlington, VA

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from California to Arlington, VA, expect to pay between $1,427 and $2,911. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,658 to $3,327. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,953 and $4,169.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Compare local moving companies from California to Arlington, VA

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:

Company Full Service Antiques Military Discount Senior Discount
Grace Moving Company × ×
All Star Movers & Storage × × ×
Meathead Movers × × ×
Sterling Van Lines
Rigo’s Moving Company Inc × ×

After evaluating 3,180 movers, here’s how California movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:

California Nationwide
Full Service 98% 96%
Antiques 61% 46%
Military Discount 1% 4%
Senior Discount 1% 4%

Things to know before moving from California to Arlington, VA

Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Arlington, VA differs from what you’re used to in California. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.

Cost of living: California vs. Arlington, VA

California Arlington
Average rent cost $1,856 $2,718
Average home cost $771,057 $810,670
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $128,145
Cost of Living Index 134 164
Unemployment rate 5.4% 4.0%
State Income Tax 13.3% 5.75%
  • Rent in Arlington is approximately 46% higher than in California. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
  • Home prices in Arlington are comparable to those in California, so the buying process should be pretty straightforward. Still, keep an eye on local market trends, which could change things.
  • Salaries in Arlington are usually 39% higher than in California, giving you more wiggle room for living expenses or saving extra cash.
  • Moving to Arlington means unemployment is roughly 26% lower than in California, giving you stronger job prospects.
  • Income tax rates in Virginia are about 57% lower than in California, which means a lighter tax burden and more take-home pay.

How life is different in Arlington from California

Arlington California
Population 238,643 39,029,342
Political leaning Democratic 81-17 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 88ºF 87ºF
Winter low 27ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 43″ 22″
Annual snow 15″ 7″
Crime index 15.67 28.43
  • California and Arlington both voted Democratic in the last election.
  • Summer temperatures in Arlington typically reach 88ºF, which is about the same as the average 87ºF you’re used to in California. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
  • Winter in Arlington brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 27ºF. That’s noticeably chillier than the 59ºF winters back in California. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Arlington treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
  • You can expect about 43 inches of annual rainfall in Arlington vs only 22 inches in California. More rainfall equates to lusher landscapes and rainier days, so you’ll want to make a few tweaks to your routine. Grab some waterproof gear before you move.
  • Each year, Arlington gets about 15 inches of snow, while California sees only 7 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
  • Heading to Arlington means you’ll be moving to a safer place, with a crime index of 15.67, lower than California’s 28.43. A drop in crime usually means tighter communities, safer neighborhoods, and less daily stress. While safety isn’t everything, the peace of mind can be well worth the move.

Things to do in Arlington

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Arlington.

Museums in Arlington

  • JW Tumbles
  • Ball-Sellers House Museum
  • David M. Brown Planetarium
  • Arlington Historical Museum
  • Arlington Arts Center

Parks in Arlington

  • Gravelly Point Park
  • Long Bridge Park
  • Bon Air Park
  • Upton Hill Regional Park
  • Potomac Overlook Regional Park

Sports teams in Arlington

  • Arlington Youth Football Club

Universities in Arlington

  • Marymount University

Other considerations when moving to Arlington, VA

  • HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
  • State licensing: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Virginia moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Virginia, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to Virginia on time. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
  • Moving checklist: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Arlington take?

The time it takes to move from California to Arlington, VA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in California, the longer the drive time to Arlington will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from California to Arlington can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Arlington?

If you’re planning a 2,789-mile move from California to Arlington, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Arlington, VA?

Summer temperatures in Arlington can soar to 88°F, while winters can get as chilly as 27°F. That’s why most people making the move from California to Arlington prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.

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