($1,677) Cost of Moving From Mississippi to California

Quick answer: Moving from Mississippi to California usually costs between $1,614 and $9,417, with most moves taking about six–17 days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.

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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 Mississippi guide.

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The best Mississippi to California full-service movers

Planning a move from Mississippi to California? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.

Start your move from Mississippi to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in Mississippi.

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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(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Mississippi

With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Mississippi. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.

  1. First Class Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. John Fayard Moving & Warehousing, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. The Armstrong Company: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Spyder Moving and Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars

First Class Moving Systems, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 944759

Years in Business: 23

2400 34th St, Gulfport, MS 39501

Established in 2002, First Class Moving Systems, Inc. offers comprehensive local residential moving services in and around Gulfport, MS. While their Yelp reviews average a 2.1 rating, Google My Business users rate them at a more favorable 4.0, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. This company distinguishes itself by providing packing and unpacking services, fragile-only packing, and specialized moving services for pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Accepting credit cards and not requiring a deposit, First Class Moving Systems ensures a seamless moving experience with full valuation insurance coverage. Compared to other nearby movers, their extensive service list and flexible payment options make them a reliable choice for local relocations.

Get a Quote (228) 863-5212

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 22

4613 Tennessee Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501

Two Men and a Truck has been a trusted local moving company in Gulfport, MS since 2004, specializing in residential moves. Renowned for their reliability, they offer a range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only assistance, with no deposit required and the convenience of accepting credit cards. The company stands out with a stellar reputation, boasting an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, an impressive average rating of 4.7 from over 400 Google reviews, and a solid presence on Yelp. Compared to other local movers, they provide a comprehensive and highly-rated service.

Get a Quote (228) 220-0159

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Gulf Coast Movers, Inc.
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John Fayard Moving & Warehousing, LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.42 / 5

DOT #: 1043597

Years in Business: 24

10323 Express Dr, Gulfport, MS 39503

John Fayard Moving & Warehousing, LLC offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Gulfport, MS, and has been in business since 2001. Unlike some nearby moving companies, John Fayard also provides packing, unpacking, and office moving services, making it a versatile choice for various relocation needs. Consumers have given mixed reviews; while Yelp users rate the company highly with an average of 5.0, Google reviewers give it a more moderate 3.5 rating on average. Nonetheless, their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau attests to their commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction.

Get a Quote (228) 864-2262

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Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

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The Armstrong Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.38 / 5

DOT #: 1170867

Years in Business: 38

1223 Highway 51, Suite A, Madison, MS 39110

Armstrong Relocation offers reputable local residential moving services in and around Madison, MS, and has been a reliable choice since 1987. Compared to other nearby movers, Armstrong stands out with its comprehensive packing and unpacking services, the ability to move fragile items like pianos and antiques, and a convenient credit card payment option with no deposit required. Consumer reviews suggest solid performance, with a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an average Yelp rating of 3.6 from seven reviews. If you are looking for a versatile and established local moving company, Armstrong Relocation is a dependable option.

Get a Quote (601) 856-8504

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc.
  • Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services
  • The Armstrong Company
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Spyder Moving and Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.38 / 5

DOT #: 3187084

Years in Business: 7

602 Adeline St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

Spyder Moving and Storage, established in 2019, offers comprehensive local residential moving services in and around Hattiesburg, MS. While they provide a wide range of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, their consumer reviews are mixed, with a 3.9 average rating on Google but a concerning 1.7 average on Yelp and an F rating from the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other local movers, potential clients may want to weigh these reviews seriously before making a decision. Additionally, Spyder Moving and Storage can handle specialty items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques, and they accept both cash and credit cards.

Get a Quote (601) 520-8276

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

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The best Mississippi to California moving container companies

Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Mississippi and drops it off at your new home in California.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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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 Mississippi to California moving truck rentals

Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Mississippi to California, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.

We like these 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 Mississippi to California labor-only movers

If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.

Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from Mississippi to California:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.66 / 5
  • Years in Business: 23
  • Yelp: 2.1 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 22
  • Yelp: 3.2 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.38 / 5
  • Years in Business: 7
  • Yelp: 1.5 / 5
  • BBB: F

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 9 Mississippi 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 Mississippi to California?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Mississippi to California. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,677 - $6,510 $1,392 - $3,693 $1,404 - $2,763
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,156 - $9,417 $2,529 - $5,361 $1,614 - $3,355
4+ bedrooms $7,949 - $13,904 $3,605 - $7,234 $2,055 - $4,189

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,006 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 Mississippi to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Mississippi to California typically costs between $1,677 and $6,510. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,156 and $9,417 when moving from MS to CA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Mississippi to California, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,949 up to $13,904.

Cost of moving containers from Mississippi to California

Moving from Mississippi to California? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,392 and $3,693. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,529 to $5,361. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,605 up to $7,234. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Mississippi.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Mississippi 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 $1,404 and $2,763. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,614 and $3,355. Moving from Mississippi to California or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,055 and $4,189.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from MS to CA

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Mississippi to California. Here’s what might influence your total price:

  • Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
  • Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in Mississippi.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.

What to know before moving from MS to CA

If you’re moving to California from Mississippi, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: Mississippi vs. California

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Mississippi and California. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

Mississippi California
Average rent cost $896 $1,856
Average home cost $181,313 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $68,505 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 85 134
Unemployment rate 2.9% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 7.0% 8.68%
State Income Tax 4.7% 13.3%
  • Rent in California is about 107% higher than in Mississippi. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
  • Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in California are typically about 325% higher than in Mississippi.
  • Great news—you’re likely to make about 34% more in California compared to Mississippi. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
  • Moving to California means you’ll be spending 58% more than you did in Mississippi. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is about 86% higher than in Mississippi. 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 24% higher in California than in Mississippi, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
  • Income taxes in California are 183% higher than in Mississippi, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.

How life is different in California vs. Mississippi

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a new home, it’s about how your everyday life will actually feel. Factors like climate, safety, local culture, and the community’s size can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a quick comparison of what life is like in California versus Mississippi across key lifestyle categories:

California Mississippi
Population 39,029,342 10,037,261
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Republican 60.9-38
Summer high 87ºF 91ºF
Winter low 59ºF 33ºF
Annual rain 22" 57"
Annual snow 7" 1"
Crime index 28.43 19.92
  • California has a population that's about 289% larger than Mississippi. 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 Mississippi went Republican.
  • Summer highs average 87ºF in California and 91ºF in Mississippi. 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 Mississippi can get as cold as 33ºF. 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 57 inches in Mississippi. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
  • Each year, California sees about 7 inches of snowfall, while Mississippi averages just 1 inch. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation, maintenance, and warm gear.
  • California has a higher crime rate than Mississippi, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 19.92. While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.

Comparing the pros of Mississippi vs. California

New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in California and Mississippi.

Pros of living in Mississippi Pros of living in California
Southern hospitality Ample economic opportunity
Delicious comfort food Pleasant weather
Mild winters Abundant recreational options
Low cost of living High quality of life
Nice beaches Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Mississippi vs. California

Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Mississippi to California.

Cons of living in Mississippi Cons of living in California
Extreme weather High cost of living
Lackluster economy Heavy tax burdens
Low diversity Natural disasters
Poor healthcare Terrible traffic
Political homogeneity Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Mississippi 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: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
  • 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 your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
  • State regulator: Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: No moving permit is required in California, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California without a hitch. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called "released value protection," free of charge. 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: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.

Things to do in California

You’ll have plenty to explore in California! Check out these top spots 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 Mississippi to California? toggle

If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Mississippi moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Mississippi to California? toggle

Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from Mississippi to California using a top-rated auto transport company.

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

An increasing number of people are relocating from Mississippi to California to enjoy all the great benefits California provides, such as: ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Mississippi or California? toggle

Living in Mississippi usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Mississippi, with average rent about 52% less and home prices 77% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Mississippi, 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

Thinking of moving to California on your own? You’ll want to earn around $74,410 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living on your own, expect to spend about $3,208 per month, or around $8,077 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.

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