($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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  • 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 Missouri guide.

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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.

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
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(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 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.

  1. Moving Proz: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Cord Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars

Moving Proz

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 2275038

Years in Business: 10

200 W 5th Street #607, Kansas City, MO 64196

Moving 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.

Get a Quote (816) 945-6333

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
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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 29

10966 Gravois Industrial Court, St. Louis, MO 63128

Two 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.

Get a Quote (314) 270-5758

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 13

1440 N Warson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63132

College 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.

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

  • HMB Hunks, LLC
  • College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving
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Cord Moving and Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 181102

Years in Business: 103

4101 Rider Trail N,, Earth city, MO 63045

Cord 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.

Get a Quote (866) 742-1558

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

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

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • North American Moving Services
  • Cord Moving & Storage Company Inc.
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All My Sons Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 902281

Years in Business: 24

3594 N Lindbergh Blvd, Bridgeton, MO 63074

All 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.

Get a Quote (636) 328-0545

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
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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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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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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 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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.72 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • Yelp: 3.3 / 5
  • BBB: B+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 29
  • Yelp: 2.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 13
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: B+

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 28 Missouri 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 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
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

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Missouri to California? toggle

Choosing a full-service Missouri moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Missouri to California? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Missouri to California on your own through a top car shipping company.

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

More and more folks are relocating from Missouri to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living in California, such as: ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Missouri or California? toggle

Living in Missouri usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Missouri, with average rent about 48% less and home prices 68% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Missouri, 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

If you’re planning to live solo in California, a comfortable income is around $74,410. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $3,208 on your own, or $8,077 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

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