($1,739) Cost of Moving From Michigan to California

Quick answer: The average cost to move from Michigan to California ranges from $1,817 to $9,891 and takes seven–18 days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.

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  • 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 Michigan guide.

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The best Michigan to California full-service movers

Heading from Michigan to California? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.

Kick off your move to California with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve Michigan.

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
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(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
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(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
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(866) 935-3437
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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
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(980) 217-6841
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(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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The best local moving companies in Michigan

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 Michigan. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Handle With Care Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Palmer Moving Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 14

832 W Eleven Mile Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • JCAL Holdings, LLC
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Handle With Care Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 808976

Years in Business: 31

4260 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 US

Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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Kingsley Moving Systems LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 1890987

Years in Business: 15

610 Detroit Street, Lansing, MI 48912 US

Kingsley Moving Systems LLC stands out among local moving companies in Lansing, MI, offering exceptional service for residential moves. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, customer satisfaction is evidently a top priority. Unlike some competitors, Kingsley Moving Systems also provides packing and unpacking services, making them a convenient one-stop solution for your moving needs. Their flexible payment options, including credit card acceptance and no required deposit, further enhance their appeal.

Get a Quote (517) 372-7200

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Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage

Additional Information

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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 16

1115 Taylor Avenue North, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 US

Two Men and a Truck offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Grand Rapids, MI, having served the community since 2009. Unlike many competitors, they provide a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, with the expertise to move specialty items like pianos and safes. Consumer reviews highlight their strong reputation, with a 4.7 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company stands out for its no-deposit policy, making them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (616) 221-4896

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Phase Six Moving, LLC
  • Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North
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Palmer Moving Services

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 511993

Years in Business: 114

24660 Dequindre Road, Warren, MI 48091 US

Palmer Moving Services has been a trusted name in local residential moving in and around Warren, MI since 1911. With over a century of experience, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, crating, and piano moving, setting them apart from many nearby competitors. While their Yelp profile shows mixed feedback with an average rating of 2.5 from 28 reviews, their Google My Business profile tells a different story, boasting an impressive 4.5 average rating from 178 reviews. Additionally, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau further solidifies their reputation. Customers can also take advantage of convenient features like credit card payments and no required deposit.

Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

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

Additional Information

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The best Michigan 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 Michigan 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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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Michigan to California moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from Michigan to California? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

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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 Michigan to California labor-only movers

If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.

Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Michigan to California.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4 / 5
  • BBB: B+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.72 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 3.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 46 Michigan 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 Michigan to California?

Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Michigan to California, broken down by home size and type of moving service.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,739 - $6,448 $1,516 - $3,805 $1,746 - $3,247
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,550 - $9,891 $2,920 - $6,177 $1,817 - $3,672
4+ bedrooms $8,815 - $15,908 $3,860 - $7,587 $2,387 - $4,929

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,404 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 Michigan to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,739 and $6,448. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,550 to $9,891 for the trip from MI to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,815 and $15,908.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to California

Moving containers from Michigan to California will cost you $1,516 to $3,805 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,920 to $6,177. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,860 to $7,587. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to California

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,746 and $3,247 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,817 to $3,672. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home or making a long-distance move from Michigan to California, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,387 to $4,929.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to CA

Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:

  • Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
  • Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Michigan.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.

What to know before moving from MI to CA

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

Cost of living: Michigan vs. California

Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Michigan and California. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:

Michigan California
Average rent cost $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%
  • Rent costs 79% more in California compared to Michigan. 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 214% higher than in Michigan.
  • Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 34% higher in California compared to Michigan. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
  • Living in California costs 46% more than in Michigan. 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 15% higher than Michigan’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 45% higher in California compared to Michigan. 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 Michigan. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.

How life is different in California vs. Michigan

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in California versus Michigan across some essential lifestyle factors:

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
  • The population of California is approximately 289% greater than the population of Michigan. 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 Michigan voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Michigan, it’s 81ºF. A hotter summer climate can offer more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but it may take some getting used to and cost more to stay cool, especially if you’re used to milder weather.
  • During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while Michigan gets down to 14ºF. 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 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan. 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 only snows about 7 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches of snow. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles, making it a great fit for those seeking a milder winter climate.
  • California has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 19.98. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.

Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. California

Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in California versus Michigan.

Pros of living in Michigan Pros of living in California
Scenic beauty Ample economic opportunity
Good higher education Pleasant weather
Bountiful recreational opportunities Abundant recreational options
Low cost of living High quality of life
Beautiful lakes Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. California

Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Michigan to California.

Cons of living in Michigan Cons of living in California
Cold snowy winters High cost of living
Spotty economic opportunity Heavy tax burdens
Poor transportation infrastructure Natural disasters
Expensive education Terrible traffic
Thick accents Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Michigan 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: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
  • Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
  • Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
  • 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: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance 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: 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 Michigan to California? toggle

Hiring a full-service Michigan 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 Michigan to California? toggle

Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Michigan to California separately through one of the top car shipping companies.

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

The main reasons people are moving from Michigan to California are the amazing upsides of living in California such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or California? toggle

It is generally cheaper to live in Michigan than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Michigan, with average rent about 44% less and home prices 68% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Michigan, 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

You should make approximately $ 74,410 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in California. The cost of living in California is approximately $ 3,208 per month for an individual and $ 8,077 for a family of four. The exact amount you’ll need to live comfortably may be more or less depending on where in California you live For example, larger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield will have higher housing costs than those in smaller towns.

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