($1,327) Movers From Michigan to Oakland, CA

1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
3. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
4. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.5 out of 5 stars
5. Mulder’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire professional movers from Michigan to Oakland, CA

When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Michigan to Oakland, CA, you’ll likely pay between $1,327 and $5,270. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,816 and $7,916 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,102 to $11,419.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Oakland, CA

When you’re heading from Michigan to Oakland, CA, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,173 and $2,945. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,304 and $4,551. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,047 to $5,867. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Oakland, CA

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck from Michigan to Oakland, CA will cost around $1,321 to $2,405. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,389 to $2,953, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $1,701 to $3,803.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent in Oakland is about 112% higher than in Michigan. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
• Expect home prices in Oakland to be about 200% higher than in Michigan. Plan ahead for a bigger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall costs of owning a home.
• The average income is about 38% higher in Oakland than in Michigan. You may find the living expenses more manageable and be able to boost your savings over time.
• Unemployment rates in Oakland and Michigan are close, so you likely won’t notice a big difference.
• With income tax rates 213% higher in California than in Michigan, you may notice less flexibility in your monthly budget.

• In the last presidential election, Oakland voted Democratic, while Michigan leaned Republican.
• The average high in the summertime in Oakland is 72ºF and in Michigan, it’s 81ºF. Moving to a cooler summer climate can bring relief from extreme heat, lower energy bills, and make it more comfortable outdoors, an appealing choice for those who value comfort and outdoor accessibility.
• In the coldest months, Oakland typically dips to 44ºF, while Michigan can reach lows of 14ºF. By moving to Oakland, you’ll experience milder winters, making everyday life simpler, less expensive, and perfect for enjoying more time outdoors.
• In Oakland, you can expect just 24 inches of rain each year—far less than the 34 inches back in Michigan. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy your new surroundings. This brighter weather is sure to boost your mood and help you feel right at home.
• Oakland doesn’t get snow, while Michigan sees around 64 inches annually. Relocating to Oakland means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
• Oakland has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 68.62 compared to 19.98. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good reminder to look into local safety precautions and consider how it could impact your daily routine.

• HOA rules: Before moving day, check your neighborhood or community rules so you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
• Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve your building’s elevator in advance and double-check any moving policies they have.
• Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
• 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 hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
• State regulator: You can verify your California moving license status right on the state regulator’s official website, here.
• Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules before moving day.
• Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This way, you can select your moving date and ensure your mail is forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.