($1,561) Cost of Moving From Louisiana to California

Quick answer: Moving from Louisiana to California usually costs between $1,594 and $9,524, with most moves taking about five–16 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 Louisiana guide.

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The best Louisiana to California full-service movers

Moving from Louisiana to California? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.

Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving Louisiana for your relocation to California:

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
read our full review
(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) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
(866) 935-3437
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
read our full review
(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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(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Louisiana

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Louisiana, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.1 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Atmosphere Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars

Bellhop Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.1 / 5

DOT #: 2878240

7613 Freret Street, New Orleans, LA 70118
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Meathead Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 921143

Years in Business: 27

1401 Maulhardt Ave., Oxnard, LA 93030

Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Oxnard and LA since 1998. Known for its reliability, the company also offers packing and unpacking services, making it a one-stop solution for your moving needs. With 328 Yelp reviews averaging 4.2 stars and 180 Google reviews with a similar rating, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Meathead Movers stands out compared to other nearby movers. No deposit is required, and they accept both cash and credit cards, providing convenience and peace of mind to their customers.

Get a Quote (805) 987-7201

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Meathead Packers
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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 13

4000 Cameron Street, Lafayette, LA 70506 US

Two Men and a Truck, serving Lafayette, LA and surrounding areas since 2012, has built a solid reputation for local residential moving services. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they boast a high Google My Business rating of 4.8 from 393 reviews and an A+ BBB rating, indicating high customer satisfaction. Specialized in both packing and unpacking services, they also provide labor-only assistance, ensuring a flexible moving experience. With no deposit required and easy credit card acceptance, Two Men and a Truck stands out as a reliable and customer-friendly choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (337) 366-8056

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Atmosphere Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 1043891

Years in Business: 25

1615 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70112 US

Atmosphere Movers, founded in 1999, specializes in local residential moving services in and around New Orleans, LA. Setting themselves apart from other nearby movers, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, office moving, and piano relocation, with no deposit required and convenient credit card payments. Their stellar reputation is reflected in their consumer reviews, boasting a 4.9 average rating on Google and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. If you seek a reliable and customer-centric moving experience, Atmosphere Movers is a prime choice.

Get a Quote (504) 566-1919

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Atmosphere Enterprises, LLC
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All My Sons Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 902281

Years in Business: 26

150 James Dr E Suite 100, Saint Rose, LA 70087

All My Sons Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Saint Rose, LA since 1999. Unlike some nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, including specialized moving for pianos and antiques. While their Yelp profile shows mixed reviews with an average rating of 1.0, their Google My Business profile boasts a strong 4.6 average rating from 752 reviews and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. They accept credit cards, but a deposit is required. Overall, All My Sons Moving & Storage stands out for its extensive experience and wide range of services.

Get a Quote (504) 732-1601

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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The best Louisiana 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 Louisiana and drop it off at your new home in California.

Check out these highly rated moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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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 Louisiana to California moving truck rentals

Looking to cut costs on your move from Louisiana to California? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.

Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
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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 Louisiana to California labor-only movers

If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.

For a smooth move from Louisiana to California, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.1 / 5
  • Years in Business: 2025
  • Yelp: 4.2 / 5
  • BBB:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.72 / 5
  • Years in Business: 13
  • Yelp: 3.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.66 / 5
  • Years in Business: 70
  • Yelp: 2.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 20 Louisiana 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 Louisiana to California?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Louisiana 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 $1,561 - $5,895 $1,443 - $3,641 $1,332 - $2,622
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,322 - $9,524 $2,394 - $5,023 $1,594 - $3,088
4+ bedrooms $7,826 - $14,135 $3,381 - $7,330 $1,934 - $4,097

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,957 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 Louisiana to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Louisiana to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,561 and $5,895. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,322 to $9,524 for the trip from LA to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,826 and $14,135.

Cost of moving containers from Louisiana to California

Moving containers from Louisiana to California will cost you $1,443 to $3,641 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,394 to $5,023. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,381 to $7,330. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Louisiana 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 $1,332 and $2,622. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,594 to $3,088. If you’re heading from Louisiana to California or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,934 and $4,097.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from LA to CA

Several factors can influence your moving costs from Louisiana to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:

  • Move size: Larger homes are pricier to move than smaller spaces like studios.
  • Time of year: Prices rise during summer, which is peak moving season in Louisiana.
  • DIY vs. professional movers: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you time and hassle.

What to know before moving from LA to CA

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

Cost of living: Louisiana vs. California

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

Louisiana California
Average rent cost $996 $1,856
Average home cost $201,519 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $57,852 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 92 134
Unemployment rate 4.1% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 7.0% 8.68%
State Income Tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Rent costs 86% more in California compared to Louisiana. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
  • Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment—home prices in California are roughly 283% higher than in Louisiana.
  • Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 59% higher in California compared to Louisiana. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
  • Living in California costs 46% more than in Louisiana. If you’re relocating to California, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
  • California’s unemployment rate is about 32% higher than Louisiana’s. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
  • Sales taxes are 24% higher in California compared to Louisiana. You'll probably spend more on everyday taxable items such as clothing, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
  • Income taxes are 213% higher in California compared to Louisiana. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.

How life is different in California vs. Louisiana

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 Louisiana compares across key lifestyle indicators:

California Louisiana
Population 39,029,342 4,573,749
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Republican 60.2-38.2
Summer high 87ºF 92ºF
Winter low 59ºF 39ºF
Annual rain 22" 60"
Annual snow 7" 0"
Crime index 28.43 33.77
  • The population of California is approximately 753% greater than the population of Louisiana. 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 Louisiana voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Louisiana, it’s 92ºF. Moving to a cooler summer climate can bring relief from extreme heat, lower energy bills, and make it more comfortable outdoors, an appealing choice for those who value comfort and outdoor accessibility.
  • During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while Louisiana gets down to 39ºF. 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 60 inches of rainfall in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana gets 0 inches of snow. With snow levels being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
  • California has a lower crime rate than Louisiana with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 33.77. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it's not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.

Comparing the pros of Louisiana vs. California

There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Louisiana.

Pros of living in Louisiana Pros of living in California
Low cost of living Ample economic opportunity
Delicious regional food Pleasant weather
Diverse culture Abundant recreational options
Fun outdoor activities High quality of life
Cajun culture Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Louisiana vs. California

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

Cons of living in Louisiana Cons of living in California
Extreme weather High cost of living
Pesky wildlife and insects Heavy tax burdens
Limited economic opportunities Natural disasters
High crime rate Terrible traffic
Hot humidity Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Louisiana 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: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
  • Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
  • 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
  • State regulator: You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed 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

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Louisiana to California? toggle

Going with a full-service Louisiana moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Louisiana to California? toggle

Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving package. Alternatively, you can book vehicle transport from Louisiana to California separately with a leading car shipping provider.

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

Many people are making the move from Louisiana to California to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in California has to offer, like, ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Louisiana or California? toggle

Living in Louisiana usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Louisiana, with average rent about 46% less and home prices 74% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Louisiana, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California? toggle

To live comfortably as a single adult in California, you should aim to make around $74,410. On average, expect to spend about $3,208 per month, or $8,077 monthly for a family of four. Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.

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