Best Movers From Michigan to California (2025 Cost Data)
When relocating from Michigan to California, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,653 to
$7,551, roughly
$3,363 for a container move, and close to
$2,211
for a rental truck.
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Let’s get moving.
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$1,251 — $7,551 Top local mover
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$1,251 — $12,036 Top long-distance mover
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$1,180 — $6,033 Top container company
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$1,281 — $3,839 Top truck rental
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$60 — $79/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Michigan to California
After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from Michigan to California.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Michigan to California
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 18, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 11, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 09, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 05, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 05, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 15, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 05, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to California?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,251 – $5,339 | $1,180 – $3,087 | $1,281 – $2,402 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,653 – $7,551 | $2,098 – $4,628 | $1,472 – $2,951 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,865 – $12,036 | $3,128 – $6,033 | $1,806 – $3,839 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,251 – $5,339
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,653 – $7,551
- 4+ bedrooms: $6,865 – $12,036
How much do moving containers cost from Michigan to California?
- Small move: $1,180 – $3,087
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,098 – $4,628
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,128 – $6,033
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,281 – $2,402
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,472 – $2,951
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,806 – $3,839
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 2,404-mile move from MI to CA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from MI to CA?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Michigan | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,037 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $245,716 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,505 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | 6.0% | 8.68% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 13.3% |
Will rent be more expensive in California?
Rent is about 79% higher in California than in Michigan.
Avg rent: $1,037 vs. $1,856
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 214% higher in California than in Michigan.
Avg home value: $245,716 vs. $771,057
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 34% higher in California than in Michigan.
Avg income (per capita): $68,505 vs. $91,905
Is the overall cost of living higher in California?
The cost of living is 46% higher in California than in Michigan.
Cost of living index: 92 vs. 134
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 45% higher in California than in Michigan.
Avg sales tax: 6.0% vs. 8.68%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 213% higher in California than in Michigan.
State income tax: 4.25% vs. 13.3%
How is daily life different in California compared to Michigan?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| California | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 22″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 7″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 19.98 |
Will California feel more crowded than Michigan?
California is about 289% more populous than Michigan — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic while Michigan voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: California is hotter on average (87°F vs. 81°F).
Winter: California is milder on average (59°F vs. 14°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in California?
Rain: California gets less rain (22″ vs. 34″).
Snow: California gets less snow (7 inches vs. 64 inches).
Is California safer than Michigan?
California has a higher crime index than Michigan (28.43 vs. 19.98). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in California?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Michigan to California move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in California, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage 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 your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in California?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in California?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a California moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in California?
No moving permit is required in California.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance 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.
Some movers in Michigan offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 6 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 1 student discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
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