Local moving companies in Minneapolis
Out of 34 Minneapolis movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- Matt’s Moving Company : 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- AAA Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- The Move Crew: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 374236
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1704106
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 286311
Years in Business: 73
DOT #: 286311
Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 36
DOT #: 1140502
Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 380620
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2552505
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 125550
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Local moving services in Minneapolis, MN
At a glance, the number of Minneapolis movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Minneapolis, MN to California
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Minneapolis to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,338 – $5,148 | $1,150 – $2,904 | $1,179 – $2,253 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,694 – $7,311 | $2,067 – $4,300 | $1,251 – $2,736 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,926 – $11,329 | $2,889 – $6,036 | $1,596 – $3,286 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,052-mile move from Minneapolis, MN, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Minneapolis to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Minneapolis to California typically costs between $1,338 and $5,148. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,694 and $7,311. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,926 up to $11,329.
Cost of moving containers from Minneapolis to California
If you’re relocating from Minneapolis to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,150 and $2,904 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,067 up to $4,300. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,889 and $6,036. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Minneapolis.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Minneapolis to California
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Minneapolis to California, expect to pay between $1,179 and $2,253. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,251 to $2,736. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,596 and $3,286.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from Minneapolis to CA
The cost of a move in Minneapolis can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in Minneapolis often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from Minneapolis to CA
Journeying from Minneapolis to California opens up new possibilities, but be prepared for an increase in living expenses. As California tends to be pricier than Minneapolis, thorough budget planning is advised.
Take a look at how living in Minneapolis stacks up against California so you’re prepared before making the move:
Compare cost of living: Minneapolis vs. California
| Minneapolis, MN | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,484 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $312,602 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,099 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 107 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 9.85% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Anticipate rent being around 25% higher in California than in Minneapolis, which means less room in your budget.
- You’ll spend roughly 147% more on housing in California compared to Minneapolis, so plan for a larger mortgage.
- Exciting news: the average income is about 31% higher in California than in Minneapolis, so you’ll likely have more room to save or invest.
- On average, the cost of living in California is 25% above Minneapolis, so prepare for higher monthly expenses.
- In California, the unemployment rate is about 20% higher than in Minneapolis, which could make the job market more competitive for newcomers.
- Taxes in California are roughly 35% higher than in Minnesota, so you’ll notice a smaller paycheck.
How life is different in Minneapolis, MN from California
When planning a move from Minneapolis to California, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Minneapolis behind for life in California.
| Minneapolis, MN | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 425,115 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 7ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 32″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 52″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 56.06 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Minneapolis and California voted Democratic.
- Summer highs typically reach about 87ºF in California and 84ºF in Minneapolis. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Winter temperatures in California average 59ºF, warmer than Minneapolis, where lows dip to 7ºF. Expect simpler winters, lighter routines, and less time spent battling the cold.
- In California, rainfall totals about 22 inches a year, less than the 32 inches you’re used to in Minneapolis. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
- In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Minneapolis gets 52 inches. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
- California has a lower crime index of 28.43 versus Minneapolis at 56.06, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.
Other considerations when moving to California
If you’re relocating from Minneapolis to California, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- 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 a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to California without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in California
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, California has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from Minneapolis to California take?
The time it takes to move from Minneapolis, MN, to California ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take six to 17 days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in Minneapolis offer custom-built crate services?
23 movers in Minneapolis list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Minneapolis mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Minneapolis to California?
Need to ship your car from Minneapolis to California? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Minnesota to California.
Why are people moving from Minneapolis to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Minneapolis?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Minneapolis.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from Minneapolis, MN?
THere are currently, 11 movers in Minneapolis that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Minnesota moving services
Popular Minnesota routes
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