($1,120) Movers From Tampa, FL to California

1. Golden Movers LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
2. Big Man’s Moving Company, LLC: 4.56 out of 5 stars
3. Brothers EZ Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
4. First Class Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
5. Bestprice Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Tampa to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tampa to California typically costs between $1,120 and $4,544. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,130 and $6,617. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,888 up to $10,762.

Cost of moving containers from Tampa to California

If you’re relocating from Tampa to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,320 and $3,256 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,274 up to $5,082. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,393 and $6,989. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Tampa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Tampa to California

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Tampa to California, expect to pay between $1,398 and $2,737. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,560 to $3,225. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,991 and $4,078.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

The cost of a move in Tampa can change based on:

• Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
• Time of year: Peak summer months in Tampa often come with higher moving rates.
• DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.

• Rent in California and Tampa is roughly equal, so you shouldn’t need to change your budget much.
• You’ll spend roughly 108% more on housing in California compared to Tampa, so plan for a larger mortgage.
• Exciting news: the average income is about 38% higher in California than in Tampa, so you’ll likely have more room to save or invest.
• On average, the cost of living in California is 29% above Tampa, so prepare for higher monthly expenses.
• In California, the unemployment rate is about 8% higher than in Tampa, which could make the job market more competitive for newcomers.
• California has a state income tax, while Florida does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay.

• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Tampa supported Republican.
• Summer highs typically reach about 87ºF in California and 90ºF in Tampa. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
• Winter temperatures in California average 59ºF, warmer than Tampa, where lows dip to 52ºF. Expect simpler winters, lighter routines, and less time spent battling the cold.
• In California, rainfall totals about 22 inches a year, less than the 51 inches you’re used to in Tampa. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
• California gets about 7 inches of snow each year, while Tampa sees none. Moving to California means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
• California has a lower crime index of 28.43 versus Tampa at 46.15, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.

• 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, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
• 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can easily verify a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
• 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 a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to California without a hitch. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.