($1,564) Cost of Moving From North Carolina to California

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to North Carolina guide.

• 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

1. You Move Me: 4.96 out of 5 stars
2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.9 out of 5 stars
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
4. American Moving & Hauling, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
5. Excel Moving and Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from North Carolina to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from North Carolina to California will cost between $1,564 and $6,351. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NC to CA will range from $4,243 to $8,881, and a large move from North Carolina to California will cost from $8,652 to $14,739.

Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to California

If you're moving from North Carolina to California, expect to pay between $1,780 and $4,265 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $3,010 up to $6,149. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $4,149 and $8,546. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina 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, expect to pay between $1,905 and $3,727. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,944 to $4,056. If you’re heading from North Carolina to California or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,381 and $5,444.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from NC to CA

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from North Carolina 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 North Carolina.
• DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

• California is about 260% more populous than North Carolina. With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure—better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
• In the latest presidential election, California voted Democratic, while North Carolina chose Republican.
• Summer highs typically reach 87ºF in California and 88ºF in North Carolina. Since those temps are similar, adjusting to your new home’s climate should be a breeze. Just remember to also consider humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs for a true sense of what summer will be like.
• During winter, temperatures in California drop to around 59ºF, while North Carolina can plunge as low as 29ºF. Moving to California means you’ll enjoy milder winters—think easier living, lower costs, and more opportunities to get outside. If you’re looking to trade snow shovels for sunshine, this move is right up your alley.
• In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in North Carolina. That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
• In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, North Carolina averages around 4 inches annually. With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward, with nothing out of the ordinary.
• California reports a higher crime rate than North Carolina, with a crime index of 28.43 versus 24.69. A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.

Other things to consider for your North Carolina 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: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
• Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
• Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
• 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 book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
• State regulator: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
• Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
• Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on time. Get started here.
• Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. 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: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

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