Local moving companies in California
When making the move from California to Seattle, WA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Seattle, WA.
- Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
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
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 Seattle, WA
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from California to Seattle, WA, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,154 – $4,606 | $821 – $1,997 | $591 – $1,163 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,459 – $5,613 | $1,418 – $2,782 | $644 – $1,329 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,849 – $8,027 | $1,833 – $3,759 | $841 – $1,697 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 945-mile move from California to Seattle, WA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Seattle, WA
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Seattle, WA, you can expect prices to land between $1,154 and $4,606. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,459 to $5,613. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,849 and $8,027.
Cost of moving containers from California to Seattle, WA
Moving containers from California to Seattle, WA, will cost you $821 to $1,997 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,418 to $2,782. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,833 to $3,759. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Seattle, WA
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $591 and $1,163 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Seattle, WA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $644 to $1,329. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $841 to $1,697.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from California to Seattle, WA
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 | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,180 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how California movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| 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 Seattle, WA
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Seattle, WA stacks up against California. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: California vs. Seattle, WA
| California | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,975 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $842,068 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $77,845 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 158 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.8% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
Seattle sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 6% more expensive in Seattle than in California, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- In Seattle, home prices run about 9% higher than in California. Be prepared for a larger down payment, steeper property taxes, and higher overall homeownership costs.
- Salaries in Seattle are typically about 15% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Seattle is about 11% lower than in California, so you may have better chances of finding work.
- One big perk of Washington is that it has no income tax, letting you hold on to more of your paycheck each month.
How life is different in Seattle from California
| Seattle | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 737,015 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-43 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 76ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 36ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 5″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 58.88 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both California and Seattle voted Democratic.
- Summers in Seattle average 76ºF, while California typically sees highs of 87ºF. Choosing to move somewhere cooler can mean less extreme heat, reduced energy costs, and more time to enjoy being outside in the summer.
- Winter in Seattle can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 36ºF, much chillier than the 59ºF winters of California. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Seattle have their own special appeal.
- 38 inches of rain each year in Seattle, considerably more than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- In Seattle, you’ll get about 5 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, California usually sees around 7 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
- Crime rates in Seattle are higher than in California, with a crime index of 58.88 versus 28.43. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Seattle
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Seattle can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Seattle
- Museum of Popular Culture (MoPOP)
- Olympic Sculpture Park
- National Nordic Museum
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- Museum of Flight
Parks in Seattle
- Discovery Park
- Olympic Sculpture Park
- Green Lake Park
- Carkeek Park
- Washington Park Arboretum
Sports teams in Seattle
- Seattle Seahawks (NFL)
- Seattle Mariners (MLB)
- Seattle Kraken (NHL)
- Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
- Seattle Seawolves (MLR)
Universities in Seattle
- University of Washington
- Seattle University
- Seattle Pacific University
- City University of Seattle
- Antioch University Seattle
Other considerations when moving to Seattle, WA
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time 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, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Washington moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Washington, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- 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 all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Washington. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Seattle take?
The time it takes to move from California to Seattle, WA varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Seattle from northern California, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from California to Seattle typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Seattle?
Because of the 945-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Seattle as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Seattle, WA?
With summer temperatures reaching 76°F and winter nights dipping to 36°F, most people make the move from California to Seattle in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
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