($1,580) Cost of Moving From Georgia to California

Quick answer: Moving from Georgia to California usually costs between $1,795 and $9,168, with most moves taking about seven–18 days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Georgia guide.

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The best Georgia to California full-service movers

Planning a move from Georgia to California? With countless moving companies to choose from, finding the right interstate mover can be tough. We’ve made it easier by researching and handpicking the best options based on detailed reviews, upfront pricing, and exceptional services.

Start your journey from Georgia to California with these top-rated long-distance movers serving Georgia.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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The best local moving companies in Georgia

With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Georgia. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.

  1. Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc.: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Atlanta Peach Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Mark the Mover, Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars

Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 3306591

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 9

1700 Oakbrook Dr, Suite A, Norcross, GA 30093

Zip Moving And Storage, Inc., based in Norcross, GA, has been providing local residential moving services since 2016, earning a reputation for reliability and professionalism. With hundreds of glowing reviews across Yelp and Google, averaging 4.6 and 4.7 stars respectively, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for pianos, art, and antiques. Their competitive rate of $125 per hour and the option for full valuation insurance coverage make them a strong choice for anyone planning a local move.

Get a Quote (770) 799-2596

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 3306591
  • State license #: 8948
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Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 1942465

Years in Business: 17

1470 Field Park Circle NW, Marietta, GA 30066

Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc. is a reputable local moving company serving Marietta, GA, and surrounding areas since 2008. With an impressive track record of customer satisfaction, they boast an average rating of 4.1 on Yelp and an outstanding 4.9 on Google My Business. The company is highly regarded, holding an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby movers, Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc. not only provides comprehensive local residential moving services but also offers packing, unpacking, and specialized moving services for pianos, art, and antiques. Those looking for a seamless and trustworthy moving experience will find Wirks a reliable choice, with no deposit required and flexible payment options including credit cards.

Get a Quote (470) 264-8248

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 8

4660 N Royal Atlanta Dr Suite A1, Tucker, GA 30084

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, established in 2017, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Tucker, GA. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 634 reviews on Google, though their Yelp reviews are more mixed with a 3.7 average from 39 reviews. While their Better Business Bureau rating is a D-, the company continues to provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, without requiring a deposit. Compared to other nearby moving companies, their extensive range of services and flexible payment options make them a compelling choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Titus 2 Project, LLC
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Atlanta Peach Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 797586

Years in Business: 26

1244 Techwood Dr, Atlanta, GA 30318

Atlanta Peach Movers has been a trusted choice for local residential moving services in and around Atlanta, GA since 2000. They stand out among nearby moving companies by also offering office moving, packing, and unpacking services, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With 64 Google reviews averaging a 4.2 rating and an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they have a solid reputation, although their Yelp reviews are more mixed at an average of 3.3 from 285 reviews. They accept various payment methods, including credit cards, enhancing convenience for their clients.

Get a Quote (770) 849-9602

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 797586
  • State license #: 8292

Alternative Business Names

  • Georgia Peach Movers

Local Associations

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Mark the Mover, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 0758674

Years in Business: 48

1500 Carroll Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

Mark the Mover, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in the Atlanta, GA area since 1977. Known for their reliability and experience, they excel in providing a range of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options. Consumer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.4 on Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Mark the Mover also offers the specialized capability of moving pianos and antiques, ensuring that your valuable items are in safe hands.

Get a Quote (404) 351-0018

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 0758674
  • State license #: 7576
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The best Georgia to California moving container companies

Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in Georgia and delivering it to your new place in California.

Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Georgia to California moving truck rentals

If you want to save money moving from Georgia to California, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Georgia to California labor-only movers

If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.

Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from Georgia to California:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 9
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: F

How we chose the best moving companies for your GA to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 55 Georgia movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from Georgia to California?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Georgia to California. 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 $1,580 - $6,503 $1,567 - $3,815 $1,743 - $3,373
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,510 - $9,168 $2,812 - $5,782 $1,795 - $4,095
4+ bedrooms $8,563 - $15,530 $4,107 - $8,098 $2,337 - $5,070

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,455 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Georgia to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Georgia to California will cost between $1,580 and $6,503. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from GA to CA will range from $4,510 to $9,168, and a large move from Georgia to California will cost from $8,563 to $15,530.

Cost of moving containers from Georgia to California

Moving containers from Georgia to California will cost you $1,567 to $3,815 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,812 to $5,782. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $4,107 to $8,098. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Georgia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Georgia 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, expect to pay between $1,743 and $3,373. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,795 to $4,095. If you’re heading from Georgia to California or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,337 and $5,070.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from GA to CA

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Georgia to California. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in Georgia.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from GA to CA

If you’re making the move from Georgia to California, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.

Cost of living: Georgia vs. California

Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Georgia 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:

Georgia California
Average rent cost $1,221 $1,856
Average home cost $326,617 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $71,355 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 91 134
Unemployment rate 3.6% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 7.32% 8.68%
State Income Tax 5.49% 13.3%
  • Rent in California is approximately 52% higher than in Georgia, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
  • Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in California are usually around 136% higher than what you’ll find in Georgia.
  • You’re likely to earn about 29% more in California than in Georgia. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
  • Moving to California will cost you 47% more than living in Georgia, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is about 50% higher than in Georgia. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
  • Sales taxes are 19% higher in California than in Georgia, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • State income taxes in California are 142% higher than in Georgia, which means you'll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.

How life is different in California vs. Georgia

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 California and Georgia compares across key lifestyle indicators:

California Georgia
Population 39,029,342 11,029,227
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Democrat 51-49
Summer high 87ºF 90ºF
Winter low 59ºF 33ºF
Annual rain 22" 50"
Annual snow 7" 1"
Crime index 28.43 20.58
  • If you’re moving from Georgia to California, you’ll find California has about 254% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
  • In the most recent presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Georgia went with Democrat.
  • Summer temperatures usually hit around 87ºF in California and 90ºF in Georgia. If those numbers are close, you’ll likely have an easy time getting used to the new climate. Just don’t forget to think about humidity, typical weather, and energy costs to get the full picture of summer in your new place.
  • Winter temperatures in California hover around 59ºF, while Georgia can dip to a chilly 33ºF. By making the move to California, you’ll enjoy gentler winters, making life a bit easier and often more affordable. Plus, with less snow and cold, you’ll have more chances to get outdoors. If you’re ready to swap snow shovels for sunnier days, this is the perfect change for you.
  • In California, you’ll see about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 50 inches you’re used to in Georgia. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
  • Every year, California gets around 7 inches of snow, much more than the 1 inch that Georgia typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter and need plenty of warm gear.
  • California has a higher crime rate than Georgia, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 20.58. While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it's smart to research neighborhoods, stay update

Comparing the pros of Georgia vs. California

Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in California versus Georgia.

Pros of living in Georgia Pros of living in California
Ample economic opportunity Ample economic opportunity
Beautiful landscapes Pleasant weather
Bountiful recreational opportunities Abundant recreational options
Pleasant weather High quality of life
Home of Atlanta Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Georgia vs. California

No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Georgia to California.

Cons of living in Georgia Cons of living in California
Hot humid summers High cost of living
Pollen Heavy tax burdens
Insects Natural disasters
High crime rate Terrible traffic
Poor healthcare Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Georgia to California move

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
  • 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: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
  • 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
  • State regulator: Easily verify a California moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on schedule. 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 your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Things to do in California

Get excited to explore California. Don’t miss these top spots 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 Georgia to California? toggle

Choosing a full-service Georgia moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Georgia to California? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Georgia to California on your own through a top car shipping company.

What are the benefits of moving from Georgia to California? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from Georgia to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living in California, such as: ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Georgia or California? toggle

Living in Georgia usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Georgia, with average rent about 34% less and home prices 58% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Georgia, 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? toggle

If you’re planning to live solo in California, a comfortable income is around $74,410. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $3,208 on your own, or $8,077 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources