The best local moving companies in Colorado
In Colorado, you have a choice of 62 interstate moving companies that can accomodate your move to California. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Colorado based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Exodus Moving and Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Skyline Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Local Moving LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- At Your Service Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 26
Alternate Names: AAA Exodus Moving and Storage Inc
Exodus Moving and Storage, serving Fort Collins, CO since 1998, is a seasoned local moving company specializing in residential relocations. The company offers an extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, labor-only services, and piano moving, setting them apart from many nearby movers. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an impressive average of 4.4 stars across 143 Google reviews, they are considered highly reputable, despite mixed feedback on Yelp. Exodus accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the moving process convenient and stress-free for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00472
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2840634
Alternate Names: Skyline Moving Company LLC
Skyline Moving Company, based in Commerce City, CO, excels in local residential moves and has been serving the community since 2017. Renowned for their exceptional service, they also offer office moving, packing, and unpacking services, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With 4.4 stars on Yelp and an impressive 4.8 on Google, they outshine many nearby competitors and hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, they provide both convenience and reliability.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Colorado Springs, CO, standing out among nearby competitors with their comprehensive offerings. Renowned for their efficiency, they also provide packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, and are even equipped to move pianos and safes. Exceptional customer satisfaction is evidenced by their 4.2 average rating on Yelp and an impressive 4.6 on Google My Business. With no deposit required and acceptance of credit cards, they ensure a convenient and trustworthy moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00426
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2498325
Local Moving LLC specializes in local residential moving services in and around Denver, CO, and has been a trusted name in the community since 2013. They stand out among nearby movers with their top-notch packing and unpacking services, as well as their ability to handle specialty items like pianos. Boasting an impressive average rating of 4.7 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google from over 1,200 combined reviews, they have built a reputation for reliability and excellence. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, Local Moving LLC is a reputable choice for those seeking seamless local moves without the hassle of deposits.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3462713
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3462713
At Your Service Moving & Storage, based in Aurora, CO, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2018. Their strong reputation is highlighted by glowing reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.6 on Google My Business, coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, this company also offers specialized services like fragile item packing, piano moving, and full valuation insurance coverage, making them a versatile choice for various moving needs. Despite requiring a deposit, their exceptional customer satisfaction indicates a trustworthy and professional service.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Colorado to California moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Colorado and delivering it to your new place in California.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best Colorado to California moving truck rentals
If you’re looking to cut costs on your move from Colorado to California, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you’ll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best Colorado to California labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Colorado to California, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CO to CA move
Using rate data from 79 Colorado movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
- Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
- Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
- 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 Colorado to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Colorado to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,208 – $4,839 | $883 – $2,135 | $682 – $1,405 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,709 – $6,112 | $1,536 – $2,947 | $737 – $1,654 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,304 – $8,639 | $2,117 – $4,012 | $936 – $1,898 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,118-mile move from CO to CA, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 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 Colorado to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Colorado to California, you can expect to spend between $1,208 and $4,839. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,709 to $6,112 on the same route (CO to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Colorado to California typically runs between $4,304 and $8,639.
Cost of moving containers from Colorado to California
Moving from Colorado to California? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $883 and $2,135. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,536 to $2,947. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,117 up to $4,012. 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 Colorado.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Colorado to California
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 $682 and $1,405. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $737 and $1,654. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $936 and $1,898.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CO to CA
There are many factors that influence Colorado moving costs. The cost to move from Colorado to California will depend on these factors:
- How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
- When you move: Summer moves in Colorado fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
- 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 CO to CA
Moving between Colorado and California involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Colorado vs. California
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Colorado and California. 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:
| Colorado | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,594 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $541,072 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $87,598 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | 7.81% | 8.68% |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 13.3% |
- Rent costs 16% more in California compared to Colorado. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 43% more than what you’ll find in Colorado.
- You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Colorado and California.
- Moving to California will cost you 47% more than living in Colorado, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than Colorado by about 32%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
- Shoppers in California pay about 11% more in sales tax than those in Colorado, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
- Income taxes in California are 142% higher than in Colorado. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Colorado
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 California differs from Colorado in these areas.
| California | Colorado | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 5,877,610 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Democrat 54-46 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 13ºF |
| Annual rain | 22″ | 16″ |
| Annual snow | 7″ | 63″ |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 36.4 |
- If you’re relocating from Colorado to California, you’ll notice that California has about 564% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Colorado voted Democrat.
- Summer highs in California average 87°F, almost the same as 86°F in Colorado. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
- Winters in California average 59°F, compared to 13°F in Colorado. The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
- Expect about 22 inches of rain each year in California — a big shift from the 16 inches you’re used to in Colorado. While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Colorado, which gets 63 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- California offers a safer environment than Colorado, with a crime index of 28.43 versus 36.4. 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 Colorado vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Colorado:
| Pros of living in Colorado | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Awesome snow recreational activities | Pleasant weather |
| Quality healthcare | Abundant recreational options |
| High quality of life | High quality of life |
| Beautiful outdoors | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Colorado vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Colorado to California, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Colorado | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | High cost of living |
| High cost of living | Heavy tax burdens |
| Altitude sickness | Natural disasters |
| Overcrowding | Terrible traffic |
| Bad traffic | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Colorado to California 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.
- 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.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: California 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 California 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,” for free. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- 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 California
Get ready to discover California. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Colorado to California?
Hiring a full-service Colorado moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Colorado to California?
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 Colorado to California separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Colorado to California?
More and more folks are relocating from Colorado to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Colorado or California?
Living in Colorado usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Colorado, with average rent about 14% less and home prices 30% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Colorado, 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 California?
If you’re planning to live on your own in California, aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $5,276 if you’re flying solo, or $10,220 for a family of four. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Colorado?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Colorado. There are 1 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts. Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies. Savings for seniors are available from 2 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Colorado moving services
Popular Colorado routes
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