Best Movers from Kentucky to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: Moving from Kentucky to California typically costs between $1,681 and $9,135 and usually takes seven–18 days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Kentucky guide.
Our track record
The best Kentucky to California full-service movers
Planning a move from Kentucky 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 Kentucky to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in Kentucky.
- 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 Kentucky
With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in Kentucky, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Wildcat Moving LLC: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Pack Mule Moving LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Vincent Fister Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 3448
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Louisville, KY since 2005. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they enjoy a solid reputation with an impressive 4.6 average rating based on 830 Google reviews and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their services extend beyond just moving; they also offer packing and unpacking services, and can handle specialized items like pianos and safes. While they boast high ratings on Google, their Yelp profile tells a different story with a 1.5 average rating based on 42 reviews. Overall, Two Men and a Truck stands out for those looking for a well-established, versatile moving company.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: 3952
Pricing: $140/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2207083
Alternate Names: Wildcat Furniture Repair, Wildcat Pressure Washing, The Wildcat Group
Wildcat Moving LLC, based in Lexington, KY, has been a reliable choice for local residential moves since 2013. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Wildcat Moving stands out with its comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and even moving specialty items like pianos and safes—all at a competitive rate of $140 per hour without requiring a deposit. Consumer reviews reflect a balanced perspective, with a stellar 4.8-star average from 1893 Google reviews and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, underpinning their strong reputation despite mixed feedback on Yelp. For those seeking trustworthy and versatile moving services, Wildcat Moving LLC offers a robust and well-regarded solution.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Highly recommended
- Damage to items
- Misplaced or lost items
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: 3561
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 1834511
Alternate Names: N & R Properties, LLC
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving has been a dependable choice for local residential moves in and around Louisville, KY since 2007. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they boast extensive experience and a stellar reputation, with an impressive 4.7 average rating from 268 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their services include packing, unpacking, and crating, and they are adept at handling specialty items like pianos. The company’s no-deposit policy and credit card acceptance add to their customer-friendly approach, making them a standout choice for reliable and efficient moving services.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Highly recommended
- Damage to items
- Unprofessional behavior
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: 4494
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 3272455
Pack Mule Moving LLC, based in Brooks, KY, has been delivering top-notch local residential moving services since 2011. With an impressive array of testimonials, including an average rating of 4.9 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google, it’s clear that customers are highly satisfied with their experiences. Boasting a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, Pack Mule Moving LLC stands out from other local movers with their comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and ability to handle specialty items like pianos and antiques. Their no deposit requirement and acceptance of various payment methods make them a convenient and reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
- Damage to items
- Poor complaint handling
- Unfriendly or rude staff
Company Info
State license #: 0065
Years in Business: 71
Alternate Names: Fister, Inc., Vincent Fister Company, Inc., United Van Lines
Vincent Fister Inc., serving Lexington, KY since 1954, has established itself as a reputable local mover with a strong presence in the community. Unlike many competitors, they offer comprehensive services including office moving, packing, and unpacking, making them a versatile choice for various relocation needs. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and while their Yelp reviews average at 1.9, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.6 rating from 187 reviews, showcasing a generally high level of customer satisfaction. Vincent Fister Inc. also excels in handling delicate items such as pianos, art, and antiques, ensuring a careful and professional move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
The best Kentucky to California moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Kentucky and dropping it off at your new home in California.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Kentucky to California moving truck rentals
If you're looking to cut costs on your move from Kentucky to California, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best Kentucky to California labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Kentucky to California, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Kentucky to California?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Kentucky to California. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,568 - $6,701 | $1,603 - $3,977 | $1,633 - $2,970 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,460 - $9,135 | $2,627 - $5,498 | $1,681 - $3,833 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,806 - $15,315 | $3,913 - $7,764 | $2,299 - $4,426 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,307 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 Kentucky to California
Planning a move from Kentucky to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,568 and $6,701. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,460 and $9,135 for the same journey (KY to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,806 to $15,315.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to California
If you're moving from Kentucky to California, expect to pay between $1,603 and $3,977 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,627 up to $5,498. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,913 and $7,764. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Kentucky.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky to California
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,633 and $2,970. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,681 and $3,833. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,299 up to $4,426 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to CA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Kentucky to California. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
- Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in Kentucky.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.
What to know before moving from KY to CA
If you’re moving from Kentucky to California, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. California
Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Kentucky and California. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:
| Kentucky | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $902 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $212,088 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $60,183 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.0% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 4.0% | 13.3% |
- Rent in California is approximately 106% higher than in Kentucky, 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 264% higher than what you’ll find in Kentucky.
- You’re likely to earn about 53% more in California than in Kentucky. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
- Moving to California will cost you 44% more than living in Kentucky, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is about 8% higher than in Kentucky. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
- Sales taxes are 45% higher in California than in Kentucky, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- State income taxes in California are 233% higher than in Kentucky, which means you'll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Kentucky
Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in California compared to Kentucky across a few key lifestyle factors:
| California | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 4,526,154 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 24ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 48" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 11" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 16.63 |
- The population of California is approximately 762% greater than the population of Kentucky. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Kentucky voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Kentucky, it’s 87ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while Kentucky gets down to 24ºF. A move to California with milder winters offers greater day-to-day convenience, lower costs, and more freedom to explore outdoors. It’s a great fit for those who prefer sun over snow and fewer weather-related interruptions.
- You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 48 inches of rainfall in Kentucky. 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, it snows about 7 inches annually while Kentucky gets 11 inches of snow. With snow levels being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
- California has a higher crime rate than Kentucky with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 16.63. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Kentucky vs. California
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in California to Kentucky.
| Pros of living in Kentucky | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant outdoor adventures | Pleasant weather |
| Delicious food and drink | Abundant recreational options |
| Horse racing | High quality of life |
| Four season weather | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. California
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Kentucky to California.
| Cons of living in Kentucky | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | High cost of living |
| Low diversity | Heavy tax burdens |
| Poor air quality | Natural disasters |
| Poor infrastructure | Terrible traffic |
| Poor education system | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky 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: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- 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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- 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.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. 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 moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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
