When planning a move from Maine to California, professional movers typically run between
$4,884 and $9,709, a moving container averages about
$3,978, and a rental truck is around
$2,800.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Maine
In Maine, you have a choice of 13 interstate moving companies that can accomodate your move to California. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Maine based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Midwest Moving Company: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC
Two Men and a Truck, based in Westbrook, ME, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2018. With a strong Google My Business rating of 4.4 from 209 reviews and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, they stand out in comparison to other local movers. Although some Yelp reviews average to a 2.9 rating, the company excels in offering comprehensive services, including packing and unpacking, labor-only services, and no deposit requirement. Their acceptance of credit cards adds to the convenience, making them a solid choice for local moves in the Westbrook area.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company , Bisson I & R Commercial Services , Bisson I & R Document Security , Bisson Transportation
Bisson Moving & Storage has been the trusted choice for local residential moving services in and around Westbrook, ME since 1920. Renowned for its extensive experience, Bisson also stands out with its specialty services, including piano, hot tub, and antique moving, ensuring a seamless relocation of your most cherished items. With a strong Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and mixed consumer reviews—ranging from a 2.1 on Yelp to a favorable 4.4 on Google—Bisson remains a reliable contender among local movers. Unlike some competitors, Bisson offers additional conveniences such as packing services and full valuation insurance coverage, making them a comprehensive option for your moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International 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
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1846942
Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine has been serving the Portland, ME area with local residential moving services since 2010. This reputable company differentiates itself from other nearby movers by offering comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, as well as the capability to move specialized items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. With an average rating of 3.9 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google, customer satisfaction reflects a generally positive experience, though some reviews suggest room for improvement. Liberty Bell accepts both cash and credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage for added peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 38
DOT #: 070851
Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines , Allen & Coles Moving System
Allen & Coles Moving Systems, serving the Portland, ME area since 1999, specializes in local residential moves and offers an array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and handling fragile items. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also expertly manage the transport of pianos, pool tables, antiques, and safes without requiring a deposit. However, the company has received consistently low ratings on Yelp, with a concerning average of 1.0 across three reviews, which may give potential customers pause.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 3263587
Midwest Moving Company, established in 2024, specializes in local residential moves in and around Biddeford, ME. With an impressive Google My Business rating of 4.9 from 301 reviews, customers praise their reliable and professional service, although their Better Business Bureau rating stands at a C. Unlike some other nearby movers, Midwest Moving Company offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and they can handle delicate items like antiques and art. They accept both cash and credit cards, though a deposit is required, ensuring full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Maine to California moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Maine and delivering it to your new place in California.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best Maine to California moving truck rentals
If you’re looking to cut costs on your move from Maine 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 Maine 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 Maine 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 ME to CA move
Using rate data from 15 Maine movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
- Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
- Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
- Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Maine to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Maine to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,556 – $6,832 | $1,436 – $3,731 | $1,601 – $3,106 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,884 – $9,709 | $2,728 – $5,228 | $1,751 – $3,849 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,648 – $15,491 | $3,590 – $7,073 | $2,326 – $4,542 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 3,239-mile move from ME to CA, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Maine to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Maine to California, you can expect to spend between $1,556 and $6,832. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,884 to $9,709 on the same route (ME to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Maine to California typically runs between $8,648 and $15,491.
Cost of moving containers from Maine to California
Moving from Maine to California? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,436 and $3,731. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,728 to $5,228. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,590 up to $7,073. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Maine.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Maine to California
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,601 and $3,106. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,751 and $3,849. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,326 and $4,542.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ME to CA
There are many factors that influence Maine moving costs. The cost to move from Maine to California will depend on these factors:
- How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
- When you move: Summer moves in Maine fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
- Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from ME to CA
Moving between Maine and California involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Maine vs. California
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Maine 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:
| Maine | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,009 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $401,297 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,251 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | 5.5% | 8.68% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 13.3% |
- Rent costs 84% more in California compared to Maine. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 92% more than what you’ll find in Maine.
- Great news — you’re likely to make about 35% more in California compared to Maine. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- Moving to California will cost you 34% more than living in Maine, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than Maine by about 86%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
- Shoppers in California pay about 58% more in sales tax than those in Maine, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
- Income taxes in California are 129% higher than in Maine. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Maine
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how California differs from Maine in these areas.
| California | Maine | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 1,395,722 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Democratic 52.6-45.3 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 78ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 22″ | 46″ |
| Annual snow | 7″ | 75″ |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 13.17 |
- If you’re relocating from Maine to California, you’ll notice that California has about 2696% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
- In the last presidential election, both Maine and California voted Democratic.
- Summers in California reach 87°F, warmer than 78°F in Maine. Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
- Winters in California average 59°F, compared to 7°F in Maine. The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
- In California, you’ll see about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 46 inches you’re used to in Maine. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Maine, which gets 75 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- California reports a higher crime rate than Maine, with a crime index of 28.43 versus 13.17. A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Maine vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Maine:
| Pros of living in Maine | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Beautiful outdoors | Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality | Pleasant weather |
| Delicious fresh food | Abundant recreational options |
| Ample economic opportunity | High quality of life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Maine vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Maine to California, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Maine | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | High cost of living |
| High tax burden | Heavy tax burdens |
| Remote | Natural disasters |
| Limited job progression | Terrible traffic |
| Low diversity | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Maine to California move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- 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 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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- 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 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: 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 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 California. Check out these must-visit places 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 Maine to California?
Hiring a full-service Maine moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Maine to California?
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 Maine to California separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Maine to California?
More and more folks are relocating from Maine to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Maine or California?
Living in Maine usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Maine, with average rent about 46% less and home prices 48% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Maine, 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?
If you’re planning to live on your own in California, aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $5,276 if you’re flying solo, or $10,220 for a family of four. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Maine?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Maine. Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Maine moving services
Popular Maine routes
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