How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to VT move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 370 California moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Vermont?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Vermont.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,444 – $5,621 |
$1,473 – $3,641 |
$1,546 – $3,217 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$4,020 – $7,905 |
$2,409 – $5,527 |
$1,640 – $3,499 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$7,564 – $13,151 |
$3,538 – $7,629 |
$2,205 – $4,704 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,087-mile move from CA to
VT using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from California to Vermont
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Vermont typically costs between
$1,444 and
$5,621.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$4,020
and $7,905
when moving from CA to VT.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Vermont,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,564
up to $13,151.
Cost of moving containers from California to Vermont
If you’re relocating from California to Vermont,
you’ll typically spend between $1,473
and $3,641 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,409 up to
$5,527.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,538 and
$7,629. 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 Vermont
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, expect to pay between
$1,546 and
$3,217.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,640 to
$3,499.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $2,205 and
$4,704.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to VT
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to Vermont. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in California, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from CA to VT
Transitioning from California to Vermont gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: California vs. Vermont
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and Vermont are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
California |
Vermont |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,149 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$390,132 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$74,014 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
114 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
8.75% |
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Rent is about 38% less expensive in Vermont than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Vermont are about 49% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Vermont are roughly 19% lower than in California.
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Moving to Vermont costs about 15% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 57% lower than California, Vermont offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Vermont is 31% lower than in California, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 34% lower in Vermont compared to California. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Vermont vs. California
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Vermont and California compare.
|
Vermont |
California |
| Population |
647,064 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 64-32 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
79ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
6ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
43″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
86″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
18.93 |
28.43 |
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With a population roughly 98% smaller than California, Vermont 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.
-
The last presidential election saw both California and Vermont siding with the Democratic party.
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The average summer high in Vermont is 79°F compared to 87°F in California.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
-
In the coldest months, Vermont dips to about 6°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
-
Get ready for about 43 inches of rain each year in Vermont.
That’s quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
-
Each year, Vermont gets about 86 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 and regular upkeep.
-
Vermont boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 18.93 compared to 28.43.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Vermont
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Vermont to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Vermont |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Great outdoor environment |
| Pleasant weather |
Simple and traditional lifestyle |
| Abundant recreational options |
Scenic |
| High quality of life |
Beautiful |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Abundant winter activities |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Vermont
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to Vermont:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Vermont |
| High cost of living |
Extremely cold weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Driving in the snow |
| Natural disasters |
Sloppy mud season |
| Terrible traffic |
High cost of living |
| Strange laws |
Small economy |
Other things to consider for your California to Vermont move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
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 Vermont, 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Vermont moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Vermont, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Vermont. 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 Vermont, many moving companies provide Released Value Protection at no extra charge, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For heightened protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Exploring third-party insurance providers for personalized plans is also an option. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Vermont.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Vermont
Get excited to explore Vermont. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Vermont
- Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
- Billings Farm & Museum
- Shelburne Museum
- Bennington Museum
- The Art of Humor Gallery
Parks in Vermont
- Waterfront Park
- Dog Mountain Home of Stephen Huneck Gallery
- Red Rocks Park
- Overlook Park
- Airport Park
Sports teams in Vermont
- Vermont Catamounts (NCAA)
Universities in Vermont
- University of Vermont
- Middlebury College
- Champlain College
- Norwich University
- Saint Michael’s College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Vermont?
Do movers transport your car from California to Vermont?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
California to
Vermont
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Vermont?
Many people are making the move from California to Vermont to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Vermont has to offer, like great outdoor environment and simple and traditional lifestyle.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Vermont?
Living in Vermont usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Vermont,
with average rent about 38% less and home prices 49% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Vermont, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Vermont?
Planning to move to Vermont? A single adult should aim for an income of around $87,546 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,412 for an individual, or $7,374 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Burlington and Essex usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in California:
7 movers offer AAA member savings;
7 provide military discounts;
7 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
2 advertise educator discounts;
4 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When relocating from California to Vermont, expect professional movers to cost around
$4,020 to
$7,905, roughly
$3,968 for a container move, and close to
$2,569
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
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