($1,455) Cost of Moving From Missouri to California
Quick answer: When you’re moving from Missouri to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,392 and $9,125. Most moves take around five–16 days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Missouri guide.
Our track record
The best Missouri to California full-service movers
Planning a move from Missouri to California? With countless moving companies to choose from, finding the right interstate mover can be tough. We’ve made it easier by researching and handpicking the best options based on detailed reviews, upfront pricing, and exceptional services.
Start your journey from Missouri to California with these top-rated long-distance movers serving Missouri.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Missouri
Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in Missouri, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Moving Proz: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Cord Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Moving Proz

DOT #: 2275038
Years in Business: 10
200 W 5th Street #607, Kansas City, MO 64196Moving Proz, established in 2014, specializes in providing top-tier local residential moving services in and around Kansas, MO. Compared to other nearby moving companies, they stand out with an impressive 4.9-star rating on Google from over 2,200 reviews, though their Yelp average of 3.3 stars suggests some variability in customer experiences. Moving Proz offers a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them a versatile choice for your moving needs. Their B+ rating with the Better Business Bureau further underscores their reliability in the industry.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2275038
- State license #: 893937
Alternative Business Names
- Moving Proz
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 29
10966 Gravois Industrial Court, St. Louis, MO 63128Two Men and a Truck has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in the St. Louis, MO area since 1995. Compared to other local movers, they stand out with their extensive experience and range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only assistance. They are also equipped to move specialty items like pianos and safes and accept credit cards without requiring a deposit. Consumer reviews tell a compelling story; while their Yelp profile reflects mixed experiences with an average rating of 2.6, their Google My Business profile boasts a stellar 4.7 average from over 1400 reviews, and they maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
- State license #: 714664
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

DOT #: 2378173
Years in Business: 13
1440 N Warson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63132College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in St. Louis, MO since 2012. With a stellar reputation for reliability, they also offer office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, making them a versatile choice for any local move. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, adding to their customer convenience. Boasting an A- rating from the BBB, an impressive 4.8 average rating from 2637 Google reviews, and solid Yelp feedback, College Hunks stands out as a dependable option for those seeking top-tier moving services in the St. Louis area.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2378173
Alternative Business Names
- HMB Hunks, LLC
- College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving
Cord Moving and Storage

DOT #: 181102
Years in Business: 103
4101 Rider Trail N,, Earth city, MO 63045Cord Moving and Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Earth City, MO, since 1921. With nearly a century of experience, they stand out among nearby moving companies for their longevity and comprehensive service offerings, including packing, unpacking, and even piano moving. Their consumer reviews are impressive, boasting an average rating of 4.6 on Google from 348 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. For those seeking a reliable and experienced mover without the need for out-of-state services, Cord Moving and Storage is a strong contender.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 181102
- State license #: 181102
Alternative Business Names
- North American Moving Services
- Cord Moving & Storage Company Inc.
All My Sons Moving & Storage

DOT #: 902281
Years in Business: 24
3594 N Lindbergh Blvd, Bridgeton, MO 63074All My Sons Moving & Storage, serving Bridgeton, MO since 2000, specializes in local residential moves and offers a comprehensive suite of services including packing, unpacking, and crating. They differentiate themselves by their ability to move delicate items such as pianos, antiques, and safes. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A and a strong Google presence with an average rating of 4.2 from over 1,600 reviews, they are a reliable choice compared to other local movers. However, potential clients should consider mixed feedback as reflected in their Yelp reviews, and note that a deposit is required to confirm a booking.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 902281
- State license #: 1803212
The best Missouri to California moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Missouri and dropping it off at your new home in California.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Missouri to California moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Missouri to California, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Missouri 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 Missouri to California.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MO to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Missouri to California?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Missouri to California. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,455 - $5,948 | $1,405 - $3,236 | $1,391 - $2,450 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,744 - $9,125 | $2,360 - $5,132 | $1,392 - $2,946 |
4+ bedrooms | $7,112 - $12,347 | $3,192 - $6,701 | $1,881 - $3,530 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,844 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 Missouri to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Missouri to California typically costs between $1,455 and $5,948. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,744 and $9,125 when moving from MO to CA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Missouri to California, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,112 up to $12,347.
Cost of moving containers from Missouri to California
If you’re relocating from Missouri to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,405 and $3,236 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,360 up to $5,132. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,192 and $6,701. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Missouri.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Missouri to California
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,391 and $2,450. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,392 and $2,946. Moving from Missouri to California or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,881 and $3,530.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MO to CA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Missouri to California. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
- Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in Missouri.
- DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.
What to know before moving from MO to CA
When moving from Missouri to California, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: Missouri vs. California
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Missouri 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:
Missouri | California | |
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Average rent cost | $957 | $1,856 |
Average home cost | $248,327 | $771,057 |
Average income (per capita) | $65,920 | $91,905 |
Cost of Living Index | 88 | 134 |
Unemployment rate | 3.8% | 5.4% |
Average Sales Tax | 4.03% | 8.68% |
State Income Tax | 4.8% | 13.3% |
- Rent in California is about 94% higher than in Missouri. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
- Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in California are typically about 211% higher than in Missouri.
- Great news—you’re likely to make about 39% more in California compared to Missouri. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be spending 52% more than you did in Missouri. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is about 42% higher than in Missouri. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
- Sales taxes are 115% higher in California than in Missouri, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- Income taxes in California are 177% higher than in Missouri, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Missouri
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in California stacks up against Missouri across important lifestyle factors:
California | Missouri | |
---|---|---|
Population | 39,029,342 | 6,196,156 |
Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 59-41 |
Summer high | 87ºF | 88ºF |
Winter low | 59ºF | 20ºF |
Annual rain | 22" | 43" |
Annual snow | 7" | 13" |
Crime index | 28.43 | 28.28 |
- California has a population that's about 530% larger than Missouri. A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
- In the most recent presidential election, California voted Democratic, while Missouri went Republican.
- Summer highs average 87ºF in California and 88ºF in Missouri. That means your move shouldn’t require you to adjust too much to the summer weather. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, unique weather quirks, and energy costs to really know what summer will feel like in your new home.
- In the heart of winter, temperatures in California dip to 59ºF, while Missouri can get as cold as 20ºF. Relocating to California means enjoying milder winters, which comes with lower expenses and more chances to enjoy the outdoors. If you’d rather soak up the sun than deal with winter storms, this move could be perfect for you.
- You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of rain each year in California, compared to 43 inches in Missouri. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Missouri, which gets 13 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, lower upkeep, and fewer weather-related headaches. giving you a smoother, more relaxed winter.
- California and Missouri share a similar crime rate of 28.28. However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of Missouri vs. California
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in California versus Missouri.
Pros of living in Missouri | Pros of living in California |
---|---|
Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity | Pleasant weather |
Bountiful recreational opportunities | Abundant recreational options |
Delicious barbecue | High quality of life |
Beautiful outdoors | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Missouri vs. California
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Missouri to California.
Cons of living in Missouri | Cons of living in California |
---|---|
Severe weather | High cost of living |
High crime rate | Heavy tax burdens |
Low quality of life | Natural disasters |
Low wages | Terrible traffic |
Poor healthcare | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Missouri 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- 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 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. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- 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 so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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 ensure you’ve got everything covered.
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:
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