How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to WY move
Using rate data from 370 California movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Wyoming?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to Wyoming with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,103 – $4,448 |
$818 – $1,999 |
$732 – $1,338 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,509 – $6,034 |
$1,572 – $2,965 |
$760 – $1,672 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,440 – $8,424 |
$1,982 – $3,921 |
$983 – $1,901 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,173-mile move from CA to
WY, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to Wyoming
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Wyoming,
you can expect to spend between $1,103
and $4,448.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,509 to
$6,034 on the same route
(CA to WY). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to Wyoming typically runs between
$4,440 and
$8,424.
Cost of moving containers from California to Wyoming
Moving from California to Wyoming? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $818 and
$1,999. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,572 to
$2,965. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,982 up to
$3,921. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Wyoming
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
$1,338.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$760 and
$1,672.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $983 and
$1,901.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to WY
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to Wyoming will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from CA to WY
Moving between California and Wyoming involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. Wyoming
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and Wyoming. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
California |
Wyoming |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$1,100 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$354,108 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$72,495 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
5.33% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
0.0% |
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Rent in Wyoming is about 41% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Wyoming are roughly 54% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Wyoming are about 21% lower than in California.
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Moving to Wyoming is about 31% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Wyoming has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 46%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 39% lower in Wyoming compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Wyoming has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to California. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Wyoming vs. California
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Wyoming differs from California in these areas.
|
Wyoming |
California |
| Population |
584,057 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 70-27 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
13″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
56″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
18.39 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 99% smaller than California, Wyoming 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.
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In the last presidential election, Wyoming voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Wyoming average 85°F, almost the same as 87°F in California.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in Wyoming can dip to 10°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In Wyoming, you’ll see about 13 inches of rain each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In Wyoming, it snows about 56 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Wyoming offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 18.39 versus 28.43.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Wyoming
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Wyoming stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Wyoming |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant natural beauty |
| Pleasant weather |
Outdoor recreation |
| Abundant recreational options |
Peaceful |
| High quality of life |
Low state tax burden |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Delicious western food |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Wyoming
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to Wyoming, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Wyoming |
| High cost of living |
Severe weather conditions |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Remote |
| Natural disasters |
Lack of diversity |
| Terrible traffic |
Lack of urbanization |
| Strange laws |
No professional sports teams |
Other things to consider for your California to Wyoming move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
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.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
Wyoming mandates that all moving companies secure a license for the state. They must acquire an official letter of intrastate control from the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). The license gives them permission to carry clients or belongings and pay for these services in the state. Moving companies need to fulfill insurance and finish all WY required forms. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Wyoming moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Wyoming does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
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 Wyoming right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. When planning a move in Wyoming, prioritize comprehensive movers’ insurance for added protection. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your coverage by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wyoming state moving insurance. Secure your move with the right insurance coverage for a stress-free relocation experience.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Wyoming
Get ready to discover Wyoming. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Wyoming
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Wyoming State Museum
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West
- Cheyenne Depot Museum
- Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
Parks in Wyoming
- Phil Baux Park
- Mylar Park
- Holliday Park
- Expedition Island Park
- Boysen State Park
Universities in Wyoming
- University of Wyoming
- WyoTech
- Northwest College
- Northern Wyoming Community College District
- Laramie County Community College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Wyoming?
Do movers transport your car from California to Wyoming?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from California to Wyoming
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Wyoming?
More and more folks are relocating from California to Wyoming to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as abundant natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Wyoming?
Living in Wyoming usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Wyoming,
with average rent about 41% less and home prices 54% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Wyoming, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Wyoming?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Wyoming, aim for an income of around $73,552 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,389 if you’re flying solo, or $5,700 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Cheyenne and Casper usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in California.
There are 7 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 7 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 2 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 4 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When planning a move from California to Wyoming, professional movers typically run between
$2,509 and $6,034, a moving container averages about
$2,268, and a rental truck is around
$1,216.
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