$1,552 Movers from Michigan to California
The cost to move from Michigan to California averages from $1,702 to $9,174 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself. Hiring movers will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or renting a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.
In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move to California. But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:
Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Moving from California to Michigan guide.
Moving from Michigan to California
- Best Michigan to California movers: We’ve handpicked the best moving companies from Michigan to California.
- How much do movers cost?: Use our moving calculator to get a more accurate estimate on moving costs.
- Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies
- Michigan to California car shippers: Moving your car? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced.
Moving 2,405 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.
The Best Michigan to California Movers
Hiring a moving company is a big deal. We’ve researched over 500 interstate moving companies, cross-referencing verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records to find you the best Michigan to California moving companies.
- Safeway Moving: Best Overall Value
- International Van Lines: Best customer service
- American Van Lines: Best industry reputation
- Air Van northAmerican Van Lines: Best for complex moves
- JK Moving Services: Best for high-end moves
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If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges for different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,552 - $6,359 | $1,494 - $3,714 | $1,572 - $3,042 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,395 - $9,174 | $2,656 - $5,512 | $1,702 - $3,621 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,258 - $14,193 | $3,653 - $7,482 | $2,151 - $4,440 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,405 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.
The cost to move from Michigan to California will depend on:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season is in the summer, this makes prices higher.
- Do-it-yourself vs Professional Mover: You may save money with a DIY move, but you also will have to do all the work.
Get a more accurate estimate of your Michigan to California moving costs with our personalized calculator below. Simply enter your details and get instant pricing!
How Much do Movers Cost?
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How much does it cost to hire movers from Michigan to California?
To ship furniture from Michigan to California with a mover will cost between $1,552 to $6,359. The cost to move a 2 to 3 bedroom home from MI to CA will range from $4,395 to $9,174, and a large move from Michigan to California will cost from $8,258 to $14,193.
How much are moving containers like PODS from Michigan to California?
Moving pods from Michigan to California will cost you $1,494 to $3,714 for a small move. For a 2 to 3 bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,656 to $5,512. A 4-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,653 to $7,482. Learn more about PODS cost.
How much is a moving truck from Michigan to California?
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor; these estimates include the estimated fuel cost:
Moving a studio or 1-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,572 to $3,042. A larger move will cost $1,702 to $3,621, and a 4+ bedroom move from Michigan to California costs from $2,151 to $4,440.
Is moving from Michigan to California a good idea?
If you’re moving to California from Michigan, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of Living: Michigan vs California
| Michigan | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $871 | $1,503 |
| Average home cost | $225,774 | $758,360 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,234 | $78,672 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | 5.8% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.0% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 73% more expensive in California than in Michigan.
- Home prices are about 235.9% higher in California than in Michigan.
- The average income is about 32.8% higher in California than in Michigan.
- Cost of living is 12.4% lower in California than in Michigan.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than Michigan by about 18.4%.
- Sales taxes are 44.67% higher in California than in Michigan.
- Income taxes are 212.94% higher in California than in Michigan.
How is life different in California from Michigan?
| California | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,237,836 | 10,050,811 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 63-34 | Democratic 59-48 |
| Summer High | 87ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter Low | 59ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual Rain | 22" | 34" |
| Annual Snow | 7" | 64" |
| Crime Index | 25.7 | 18.19 |
- The population of California is approximately 290% greater than the population of Michigan.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Michigan voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Michigan, it’s 81ºF.
- During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF and Michigan gets down to 14ºF.
- You can expect about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California vs 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan.
- In California, it snows about 7 inches annually vs 64 inches of snow in Michigan.
- California has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 25.7 vs 18.19.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. California:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Michigan vs California side-by-side.
| 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:
Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Michigan for 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 |
Considerations for moving to California
- 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 ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator Reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking Permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
- 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State Regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- 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: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forward to California. Get started here.
- Mover's Insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving Checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Looking for local Michigan movers?
| Company | Quote | Rating | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
most popular
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Get A Quote |
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4260 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108 (734) 677-2000 |
| Corrigan Moving Systems | Get A Quote |
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7409 Expressway Court Southwest, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548 (616) 455-4500 |
| Powell Relocation Group | Get A Quote |
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4937 Starr St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546 (616) 956-0900 |
Visit our Best Movers in Michigan page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.
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.
- Yosemite National Park
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Disneyland Park
- Big Sur Coastline
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Death Valley National Park
- San Diego Zoo
- Lake Tahoe
- Santa Catalina Island
- Redwood National and State Parks
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Hearst Castle
- Channel Islands National Park
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- The Hollywood Sign
- Lombard Street
- Venice Beach
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Griffith Observatory
- Santa Monica Pier
- Alcatraz Island
- Winchester Mystery House
- Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Solvang
- Fisherman’s Wharf
- Burney Falls
- Anza Borrego Desert State Park
- Bodie State Historic Park
FAQs about moving from Michigan to California
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to California?
The cheapest way to move from Michigan to California is with a DIY move. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to California?
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.
