Best Movers from Idaho to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When you’re moving from Idaho to California, you’ll typically spend between $836 and $8,338. Most moves take around two–seven days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Idaho guide.
Our track record
The best Idaho to California full-service movers
Planning a move from Idaho to California? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.
Start your move from Idaho to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in Idaho.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Idaho
Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in Idaho, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- InterWest Moving and Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Valley Custom Moving LLC: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Merchant Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: West One Logistics
InterWest Moving and Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Idaho Falls, ID, since 1992. Their reputation stands strong, especially highlighted by their Google My Business profile with 144 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and a Better Business Bureau rating of A+. Unlike many competitors, InterWest offers a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and even art moving, all with no deposit required. Clients consistently note their satisfaction with the company's professionalism and reliability, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking local moving services.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3254761
Alternate Names: Valley Custom Transport LLC
Valley Custom Moving LLC, serving Nampa, ID and the surrounding area, specializes in local residential moves with a commitment to exceptional service since 2019. Their stellar reputation is reflected in 4.8 stars on Yelp and 4.9 stars on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They stand out from other local movers by also offering office moving, packing and unpacking services, and the capability to move delicate items like pianos and antiques. Additionally, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and require no deposit, ensuring a seamless and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2990717
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2378173
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving stands out as a reputable local moving company serving Boise, ID and the surrounding areas since 2018. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 on Google from over 1,200 reviews and a solid 4.3 on Yelp, this company boasts a stellar reputation. They offer comprehensive residential moving services, including packing and unpacking, without requiring a deposit and accept credit cards for added convenience. Their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further sets them apart from other local movers, ensuring a trusted and professional moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Keltic Company Inc, Two Men And A Truck #327
Two Men and a Truck, based in Meridian, ID, has been providing local residential moving services since 1986, distinguishing themselves with high consumer satisfaction. With an impressive Yelp rating of 4.9 across 29 reviews and a Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 243 reviews, they are well-regarded among customers. Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, they offer a range of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only assistance. Unlike many competitors, they do not require a deposit and accept credit card payments, making them a convenient and reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 81
DOT #: 1530842
Merchant Moving & Storage, LLC offers reliable local residential moving services in Boise, ID, and has been a cornerstone of the community since 1945. They stand out among nearby movers with their comprehensive offerings, including packing services, piano moving, and full valuation insurance coverage. Their stellar reputation is reflected in consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. With decades of experience and top-tier customer satisfaction, Merchant Moving & Storage, LLC is a trustworthy choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Idaho to California moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in Idaho and drop it off at your new home in California.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best Idaho to California moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Idaho 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:
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The best Idaho to California labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Idaho to California.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your ID to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Idaho to California?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Idaho to California. Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
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Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,810 - $6,894 | $974 - $2,392 | $743 - $1,434 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,430 - $8,338 | $1,695 - $3,463 | $836 - $1,773 |
4+ bedrooms | $5,962 - $11,313 | $2,377 - $4,770 | $1,048 - $2,174 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 909 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 Idaho to California
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Idaho to California will cost between $1,810 and $6,894. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from ID to CA will range from $3,430 to $8,338, and a large move from Idaho to California will cost from $5,962 to $11,313.
Cost of moving containers from Idaho to California
When you’re heading from Idaho to California, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $974 and $2,392. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,695 and $3,463. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,377 to $4,770. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Idaho easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Idaho to California
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $743 to $1,434. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $836 to $1,773, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Idaho to California costs around $1,048 to $2,174.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ID to CA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Idaho to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Idaho.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from ID to CA
When moving from Idaho to California, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: Idaho vs. California
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Idaho and California. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
Idaho | California | |
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Average rent cost | $1,061 | $1,856 |
Average home cost | $451,520 | $771,057 |
Average income (per capita) | $70,214 | $91,905 |
Cost of Living Index | 106 | 134 |
Unemployment rate | 3.7% | 5.4% |
Average Sales Tax | 6.03% | 8.68% |
State Income Tax | 5.8% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 75% more expensive in California than in Idaho; make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 71% higher in California than in Idaho.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 31% higher in California than in Idaho, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- The cost of living is 26% higher in California than in Idaho. If you're making the move to California with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than Idaho by about 46%. 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 processes.
- Sales taxes are 44% higher in California than in Idaho. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 129% higher in California than in Idaho. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in California vs. Idaho
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 Idaho compares across key lifestyle indicators:
California | Idaho | |
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Population | 39,029,342 | 1,964,726 |
Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 70-30 |
Summer high | 87ºF | 85ºF |
Winter low | 59ºF | 17ºF |
Annual rain | 22" | 18" |
Annual snow | 7" | 47" |
Crime index | 28.43 | 11.68 |
- California has a population that's about 1,887% larger than Idaho. A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
- In the most recent presidential election, California voted Democratic, while Idaho went Republican.
- Summer highs average 87ºF in California and 85ºF in Idaho. That means your move shouldn’t require you to adjust too much to the summer weather. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, unique weather quirks, and energy costs to really know what summer will feel like in your new home.
- In the heart of winter, temperatures in California dip to 59ºF, while Idaho can get as cold as 17ºF. Relocating to California means enjoying milder winters, which comes with lower expenses and more chances to enjoy the outdoors. If you’d rather soak up the sun than deal with winter storms, this move could be perfect for you.
- In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, while Idaho sees around 18 inches annually. So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Idaho, which gets 47 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, lower upkeep, and fewer weather-related headaches. giving you a smoother, more relaxed winter.
- California has a higher crime rate than Idaho, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 11.68. While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Idaho vs. California
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in California to Idaho.
Pros of living in Idaho | Pros of living in California |
---|---|
Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living | Pleasant weather |
High quality of life | Abundant recreational options |
Beautiful landscapes | High quality of life |
Bountiful recreational opportunities | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Idaho vs. California
Moving from Idaho to California comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother.
Cons of living in Idaho | Cons of living in California |
---|---|
Low diversity | High cost of living |
Harsh winters | Heavy tax burdens |
Political dominance | Natural disasters |
Isolation | Terrible traffic |
Competitive housing | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Idaho 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 ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules 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 proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- 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 so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in California
You’ll have plenty to explore in California! Check out these top spots to visit 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