($1,325) Movers From Boston, MA to California

1. Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. Michael’s Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
3. Poseidon Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
5. Flash Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Boston to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Boston to California typically costs between $1,325 and $5,588. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,330 and $8,192. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,755 up to $13,341.

Cost of moving containers from Boston to California

If you’re relocating from Boston to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,407 and $3,768 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,520 up to $5,391. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,410 and $7,743. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Boston.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Boston 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 from Boston to California, expect to pay between $1,617 and $3,043. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,857 to $3,699. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,259 and $4,681.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

The cost of a move in Boston can change based on:

• Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
• Time of year: Peak summer months in Boston often come with higher moving rates.
• DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.

• Rent is about 45% lower in California than in Boston, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
• The cost of homes in California is similar to Boston, so your monthly mortgage budget should remain steady.
• The average income is about equal in California and Boston, meaning your budget should hold up just fine.
• The cost of living is around 11% lower in California than in Boston, freeing up money for savings or lifestyle upgrades.
• The unemployment rate in California is around 13% lower than in Boston, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
• Taxes in California are roughly 48% higher than in Massachusetts, so you’ll notice a smaller paycheck.

• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Boston supported Republican.
• Summer highs typically reach about 87ºF in California and 82ºF in Boston. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
• Winter temperatures in California average 59ºF, warmer than Boston, where lows dip to 19ºF. Expect simpler winters, lighter routines, and less time spent battling the cold.
• In California, rainfall totals about 22 inches a year, less than the 47 inches you’re used to in Boston. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
• In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Boston gets 48 inches. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
• California has a lower crime index of 28.43 versus Boston at 39.88, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
• 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can easily verify a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
• 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: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to California without a hitch. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.