How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to WV move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 370 California moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to West Virginia?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to West Virginia.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,236 – $5,120 |
$1,269 – $3,156 |
$1,395 – $2,726 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,678 – $7,791 |
$2,185 – $4,876 |
$1,435 – $3,245 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,643 – $11,371 |
$3,228 – $6,180 |
$1,777 – $3,672 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 2,543-mile move from CA to
WV using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from California to West Virginia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to West Virginia,
you can expect prices to land between $1,236
and $5,120.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,678 to
$7,791 for the trip from CA
to WV. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$6,643 and
$11,371.
Cost of moving containers from California to West Virginia
Moving containers from California to West Virginia
will cost you $1,269 to
$3,156 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,185
to $4,876. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $3,228 to
$6,180.
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 West Virginia
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
$1,395
and $2,726
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,435
to $3,245.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,777
to $3,672.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to WV
Several factors influence the cost of moving from California to West Virginia. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in California generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from CA to WV
Making the move from California to West Virginia means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: California vs. West Virginia
A clear look at the cost differences between California and West Virginia helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
California |
West Virginia |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$899 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$168,172 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$55,217 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
4.2% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
6.5% |
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You’ll pay about 52% less in rent in West Virginia compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in West Virginia are around 78% lower than in California. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 40% lower West Virginia than in California.
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Living in West Virginia costs about 33% less than in California. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate around 22% lower than California, West Virginia offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in West Virginia is 31% lower than in California. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in West Virginia could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
-
Income taxes in West Virginia are 51% lower than in California. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in West Virginia vs. California
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in West Virginia and California compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
West Virginia |
California |
| Population |
1,782,959 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 69-30 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
21ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
45″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
33″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
17.47 |
28.43 |
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The population of West Virginia is about 95% smaller than that of California.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
-
In the latest presidential election, West Virginia voted Republican, while California chose Democratic.
-
Summer highs average 83°F in West Virginia, compared to 87°F in California.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, West Virginia reaches lows near 21°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect about 45 inches of annual rainfall in West Virginia versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Each year, West Virginia gets about 33 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.
-
Moving to West Virginia means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 17.47 versus California’s 28.43, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of California vs. West Virginia
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in West Virginia compared to California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in West Virginia |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Pleasant weather |
Abundant outdoor activities |
| Abundant recreational options |
4 distinct seasons of weather |
| High quality of life |
Immense natural beauty |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Relaxed small cities and towns |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. West Virginia
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to West Virginia:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in West Virginia |
| High cost of living |
Dismal economy |
| Heavy tax burdens |
High rates of crime |
| Natural disasters |
High rates of drug abuse |
| Terrible traffic |
Shrinking population |
| Strange laws |
Lack of diversity |
Other things to consider for your California to West Virginia move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
State licensing:
In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a West Virginia moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in West Virginia, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to West Virginia right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in West Virginia
You’ll have plenty to explore in West Virginia! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in West Virginia
- West Virginia State Museum
- The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
- Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- Clay Center
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum
Parks in West Virginia
- Oglebay Park
- Ritter Park
- Wheeling Park
- Haddad Riverfront Park
- Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
Sports teams in West Virginia
- Wheeling Nailers (ECHL)
- West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA)
Universities in West Virginia
- West Virginia University
- Marshall University
- Shepherd University
- West Virginia State University
- Fairmont State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to West Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from California to West Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from California to West Virginia?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave California for West Virginia, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in California or West Virginia?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 52% less and home prices 78% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in West Virginia, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in West Virginia?
To live comfortably as a single adult in West Virginia, you should aim to make around $53,753.
On average, expect to spend about $2,211 per month, or $4,826 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Coalton and Charleston generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Many movers in California publish special-rate programs:
7 honor AAA member discounts;
7 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
2 provide student pricing;
2 have educator discounts;
4 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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For a move from California to West Virginia, budget between $3,678–$7,791 for full-service movers, around
$3,530 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$2,340
for a rental truck.
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