How we chose the best moving companies for your KS to CA move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 22 Kansas moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Kansas to California?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Kansas 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 |
$1,144 – $4,800 |
$930 – $2,385 |
$872 – $1,790 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,992 – $6,515 |
$1,765 – $3,444 |
$962 – $2,110 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,066 – $8,843 |
$2,309 – $4,883 |
$1,200 – $2,380 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,538-mile move from KS to
CA using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Kansas to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Kansas to California,
you can expect prices to land between $1,144
and $4,800.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,992 to
$6,515 for the trip from KS
to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,066 and
$8,843.
Cost of moving containers from Kansas to California
Moving containers from Kansas to California
will cost you $930 to
$2,385 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,765
to $3,444. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,309 to
$4,883.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Kansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kansas to California
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$872
and $1,790
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $962
to $2,110.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,200
to $2,380.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KS to CA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Kansas to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Kansas generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from KS to CA
Making the move from Kansas to California means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Kansas vs. California
A clear look at the cost differences between Kansas and California helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Kansas |
California |
| Average rent |
$986 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$229,012 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,747 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
87 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.4% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
8.65% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
5.7% |
13.3% |
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Rent in California is about 88% higher than in Kansas. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in California are usually around 237% higher than what you’ll find in Kansas.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 32% higher in California than in Kansas, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in California costs 54% more than in Kansas. If you’re relocating to California, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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Unemployment in California is roughly 59% higher than in Kansas. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
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No need to worry about sales tax since rates are similar in Kansas and California.
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State income taxes in California are 133% higher than in Kansas, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Kansas
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 Kansas compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
California |
Kansas |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
2,940,546 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Republican 57.1%-41.1 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
33″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
15″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
24.07 |
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California has a population that’s about 1227% larger than Kansas.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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In the latest presidential election, California voted Democratic, while Kansas chose Republican.
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Summer highs average 87°F in California, compared to 91°F in Kansas.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
California has winter lows around 59°F, compared to 19°F in Kansas.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 33 inches of rainfall in Kansas.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than Kansas.
That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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California has a higher crime rate than Kansas, with crime indexes at 28.43 and 24.07, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Kansas vs. California
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in California compared to Kansas:
| Pros of living in Kansas |
Pros of living in California |
| Delicious barbecue |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost housing |
Pleasant weather |
| Cheap living |
Abundant recreational options |
| Four season living |
High quality of life |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Kansas vs. California
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Kansas to California:
| Cons of living in Kansas |
Cons of living in California |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Dull landscape |
Heavy tax burdens |
| High taxes |
Natural disasters |
| Lack of public transportation |
Terrible traffic |
| Remote small-town lifestyle |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Kansas to California move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
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Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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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.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. 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.
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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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kansas to California?
Do movers transport your car from Kansas to California?
What are the benefits of moving from Kansas to California?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Kansas for California, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Kansas or California?
Living in Kansas usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kansas,
with average rent about 47% less and home prices 70% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Kansas, 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?
To live comfortably as a single adult in California, you should aim to make around $73,978.
On average, expect to spend about $5,276 per month, or $10,220 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Kansas?
Many movers in Kansas publish special-rate programs:
2 offer military-specific savings;
1 extend deals for seniors;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Kansas to California, budget between $2,992–$6,515 for full-service movers, around
$2,604 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,536
for a rental truck.
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