Best Movers from Massachusetts to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When you’re moving from Massachusetts to California, you’ll typically spend between $2,305 and $10,683. Most moves take around seven–21 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 Massachusetts guide.
Our track record
The best Massachusetts to California full-service movers
Planning a move from Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to California with these top-rated long-distance movers serving Massachusetts.
- 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 Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Oscar's Moving Company: 5 out of 5 stars
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- StairHopper Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 31320
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1637689
Alternate Names: Oscar's Moving Company
Oscar's Moving Company, established in 2008, specializes in local residential moving services in and around Newton, MA. Unlike many nearby movers, Oscar's Moving Company boasts a stellar reputation with a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, an impressive 4.8-star average on Google My Business, and a solid 3.8-star average on Yelp from 143 reviews. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing and unpacking, and even have the capability to move pianos. Customers can pay by credit card, though a deposit is required.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 70719
Olympia Moving & Storage, located in Watertown, MA, has been providing exceptional local residential moving services since 1994. They stand out among nearby moving companies with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, and the ability to move delicate items such as pianos, antiques, and safes. Their reputation is solid, boasting a Yelp average rating of 4.1 from 148 reviews, a Google My Business rating of 4.5 from 229 reviews, and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Olympia Moving & Storage also accepts credit cards and offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 31391
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1718049
Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Boston Best Rate Movers has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Waltham, MA since 2006. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them an excellent choice for meticulous movers. Clients consistently praise their reliability, as evidenced by their 4.7 average rating across 32 Yelp reviews and 530 Google reviews, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards add to their customer-friendly approach.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 1420771
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1420771
Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC, based in Milford, MA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 2006. Known for their impressive track record, they boast an average rating of 4.8 from 134 Google reviews and a 4.1 average from 30 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other nearby movers, Gallo offers comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, as well as specialized moving for pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Clients appreciate their flexible payment options, with no deposit required and full valuation insurance coverage provided.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 31321
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1696867
StairHopper Movers, a trusted name in local residential moving since 2004, serves the Boston, MA area with exemplary service. Known for their reliability, they stand out among local competitors with impressive consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a flawless 5.0 on Google. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer comprehensive moving solutions, including packing, unpacking, and specialized services for fragile items and artwork. While a deposit is required, they accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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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The best Massachusetts to California moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Massachusetts to California, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 MA to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to California?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Massachusetts 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 | $1,766 - $7,076 | $1,800 - $4,537 | $2,047 - $4,170 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,956 - $10,683 | $3,190 - $6,755 | $2,305 - $4,634 |
4+ bedrooms | $9,619 - $16,391 | $4,678 - $9,049 | $2,887 - $5,924 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 3,095 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 Massachusetts to California
Planning a move from Massachusetts to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,766 and $7,076. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,956 and $10,683 for the same journey (MA to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $9,619 to $16,391.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to California
Moving containers from Massachusetts to California will cost you $1,800 to $4,537 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $3,190 to $6,755. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $4,678 to $9,049. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts 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 $2,047 and $4,170. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $2,305 and $4,634. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,887 up to $5,924 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to CA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.
- DIY vs. professional movers: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you time and hassle.
What to know before moving from MA to CA
If you’re making the move from Massachusetts to California, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. California
Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between Massachusetts and California. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:
Massachusetts | California | |
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Average rent cost | $1,588 | $1,856 |
Average home cost | $623,131 | $771,057 |
Average income (per capita) | $96,505 | $91,905 |
Cost of Living Index | 100 | 134 |
Unemployment rate | 3.9% | 5.4% |
Average Sales Tax | 6.25% | 8.68% |
State Income Tax | 9.0% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 17% higher in California than in Massachusetts. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 24% more than what you'll find in Massachusetts.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in California are roughly 5% lower than in Massachusetts.
- Moving to California means you’ll be paying 34% more than you did in Massachusetts. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is roughly 38% higher than in Massachusetts. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
- Sales taxes are 39% higher in California than in Massachusetts. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in California are 48% higher than in Massachusetts. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts across a few key lifestyle factors:
California | Massachusetts | |
---|---|---|
Population | 39,029,342 | 7,001,399 |
Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
Summer high | 87ºF | 82ºF |
Winter low | 59ºF | 16ºF |
Annual rain | 22" | 49" |
Annual snow | 7" | 47" |
Crime index | 28.43 | 13.92 |
- California has a population that's about 457% larger than Massachusetts. A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
- In the most recent presidential race, both Massachusetts and California leaned Democratic.
- Summer highs in California reach 87ºF, while Massachusetts sees temperatures around 82ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and time outdoors, but be ready for higher cooling bills and some adjustments if you’re coming from a cooler climate.
- In the heart of winter, temperatures in California dip to 59ºF, while Massachusetts can get as cold as 16ºF. 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.
- You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of rain each year in California, compared to 49 inches in Massachusetts. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 13.92. 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.
Pros of living in Massachusetts | Pros of living in California |
---|---|
Natural beauty | Ample economic opportunity |
Excellent education system | Pleasant weather |
Delicious seafood | Abundant recreational options |
Bountiful recreational opportunities | High quality of life |
Home to Boston | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. California
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Massachusetts for California.
Cons of living in Massachusetts | Cons of living in California |
---|---|
Bad traffic | High cost of living |
Poor driving conditions | Heavy tax burdens |
Harsh winter weather | Natural disasters |
High cost of living | Terrible traffic |
Peculiar liquor laws | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts 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
While you’re in California, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places 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