Factors that influence moving costs from Denver to Los Angeles

The cost of Denver movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Denver to Los Angeles might cost as little as $1,386, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,711.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Denver, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $804 to $1,980. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Denver to Los Angeles

Moving from Denver to Los Angeles comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Los Angeles is generally more expensive than Denver, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Denver Los Angeles
Average rent cost $1,900 $2,960
Average home value $544,237 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $85,853 $74,993
Cost of living (single person) $3,392 $3,922
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,201 $9,213
Unemployment rate 7.1% 10.6%
Sales tax 9.15% 9.5%
State income tax 5.49% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Los Angeles are 56% higher than in Denver, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Denver.
    Home prices in Los Angeles are 335.1% higher than in Denver.
  • Income in Los Angeles is 12.6% lower than in Denver, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Los Angeles include County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School District, and City of Los Angeles (including DWP).
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Los Angeles, since the cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 15.6% higher than in Denver. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you’re moving your family to Los Angeles, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 12.3% higher than in Denver.
  • The unemployment rate in Los Angeles is 49.30% higher than in Denver.
  • You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Los Angeles, since the city’s sales taxes in Los Angeles are 3.83% higher than in Denver.
  • State income taxes in Los Angeles are 142.26% higher than in Denver.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,468.75 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Denver.

How life is different in Denver vs. Los Angeles

Los Angeles Denver
Population 3,820,914 715,522
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 8
Walkability score 69 95
Bike friendliness score 59 96
Crime Index 53.81 47.84
Safety Index 46.19 52.16
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • Los Angeles's population is about 434% greater than Denver.
  • Los Angeles's public transportation has a similar score to Denver.
  • Los Angeles is less walkable than Denver with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Denver's 95 out of 100.
  • Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Denver, which has a score of 96 out of 100.
  • Los Angeles's crime rate is higher than Denver with a score of 53.81 compared to Denver's 47.84. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Denver neighborhoods are safer than 47.84%.
  • Los Angeles is considered to be less safe than Denver with a score of 46.19 vs Denver's 52.16.
  • Air quality in Los Angeles is moderate, and in Denver it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Denver vs. Los Angeles move

  • Weather: The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Los Angeles. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Now that you've decided to make the move to "City of Angels", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Los Angeles.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

Things to do in Los Angeles

After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Los Angeles has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Los Angeles is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, Battleship USS Iowa Museum, and The Broad.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), Los Angeles FC (MLS), or Los Angeles Kings (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Denver to Los Angeles?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Denver to Los Angeles. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Denver.

When is the cheapest time to move from Denver to Los Angeles?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Denver to Los Angeles, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Denver to Los Angeles take?

The 1,016-mile journey from Denver, CO to Los Angeles, CA typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Denver offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Los Angeles.

Helpful moving resources