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

Quick answer: When planning a move from North Carolina to California, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,944 to $8,881. Most relocations will take about seven–21 days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

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

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best North Carolina to California full-service movers

Thinking about moving from North Carolina to California? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from North Carolina to California with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in North Carolina.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in North Carolina

Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in North Carolina based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.

  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

You Move Me

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 2518689

Years in Business: 10

4300 Barringer Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217 US

You Move Me is a well-established local moving company that has been serving Charlotte, NC, and the surrounding areas since 2015. Unlike many nearby movers, You Move Me offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and even piano moving, making them a versatile choice for local residential moves. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 590 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are highly regarded for their reliability and professionalism. Customers particularly appreciate that the company accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, adding convenience to their already stellar service.

Get a Quote (800) 926-3900

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • TEC Ventures LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Gentle Giant Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 373544

Years in Business: 43

3827 Barringer Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217 US

Gentle Giant Moving Company has been a trusted name for local residential moving services in and around Charlotte, NC since 1981. With an impressive track record, they have garnered an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google, alongside an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Gentle Giant stands out for its additional offerings such as packing and unpacking services, crane vans, and specialized piano moving. Customers appreciate their reliability and professionalism, making them a top choice for those seeking a reputable local mover.

Get a Quote (704) 376-2338

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 30

130 Stratford Ct, Winston-Salem, NC 27103

Two Men and a Truck, serving Winston-Salem, NC since 1996, specializes in local residential moving services. With an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and high customer satisfaction on Google My Business (average rating of 4.6 from 154 reviews), they stand out among local moving companies. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, making them a versatile choice for various moving needs. Consumer feedback emphasizes their reliability and professionalism, making them a reputable option for local relocations.

Get a Quote (336) 310-0235

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Kline, LLC
  • Greensboro Movers, LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

American Moving & Hauling, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 2007351

Years in Business: 19

535 Clemmonsville Rd D, Winston-Salem, NC 27107

American Moving & Hauling, Inc. offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Winston-Salem, NC, and has been a trusted name in the industry since 2007. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they provide a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and special care for fragile items, as well as the ability to move large items such as pianos, hot tubs, and safes. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 from 635 Google reviews, a solid 3.8 from 48 Yelp reviews, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they demonstrate a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability. Accepting credit cards and providing full valuation insurance coverage, American Moving & Hauling, Inc. ensures a dependable and seamless moving experience.

Get a Quote (336) 765-3499

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

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

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Excel Moving and Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 076235

Years in Business: 55

306 Concord St, Greensboro, NC 27406

Excel Moving and Storage, serving Greensboro, NC since 1971, specializes in local residential moving services, standing out among nearby companies with their extensive experience and reliability. Reviews depict a mostly positive customer sentiment, with a solid 4.6 average rating on Google and a respectable A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, although Yelp reviews are more mixed. They provide a wide range of services including office moving, crating, and fragile-only packing. Excel also offers full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.

Get a Quote (336) 939-6450

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

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

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 076235
  • State license #: 731

Alternative Business Names

  • Allied Van Lines
Back to Top movebuddha icon

The best North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best North Carolina to California moving truck rentals

Looking to cut costs on your move from North Carolina to California? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.

Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best North Carolina 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 North Carolina to California.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
  • Years in Business: 30
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 55
  • Yelp: 3.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to CA move

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 85 North Carolina 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 North Carolina to California?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from North Carolina to California. Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,564 - $6,351 $1,780 - $4,265 $1,905 - $3,727
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,243 - $8,881 $3,010 - $6,149 $1,944 - $4,056
4+ bedrooms $8,652 - $14,739 $4,149 - $8,546 $2,381 - $5,444

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,659 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 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.

What to know before moving from NC to CA

If you’re making the move from North Carolina to California, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.

Cost of living: North Carolina vs. California

Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between North Carolina and California. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates, this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle. Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:

North Carolina California
Average rent cost $1,093 $1,856
Average home cost $328,715 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $66,186 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 96 134
Unemployment rate 3.7% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 6.98% 8.68%
State Income Tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • Rent in California is approximately 70% higher than in North Carolina, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
  • Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in California are usually around 135% higher than what you’ll find in North Carolina.
  • You’re likely to earn about 39% more in California than in North Carolina. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
  • Moving to California will cost you 40% more than living in North Carolina, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is about 46% higher than in North Carolina. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
  • Sales taxes are 24% higher in California than in North Carolina, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • State income taxes in California are 196% higher than in North Carolina, which means you'll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.

How life is different in California vs. North Carolina

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in California versus North Carolina across some essential lifestyle factors:

California North Carolina
Population 39,029,342 10,835,491
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Republican 51-49
Summer high 87ºF 88ºF
Winter low 59ºF 29ºF
Annual rain 22" 48"
Annual snow 7" 4"
Crime index 28.43 24.69
  • 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.

Comparing the pros of North Carolina vs. California

There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against North Carolina.

Pros of living in North Carolina Pros of living in California
Great communities Ample economic opportunity
Low cost of living Pleasant weather
Ample economic opportunity Abundant recreational options
High quality of life High quality of life
Bountiful recreational opportunities Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in North Carolina vs. California

Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving North Carolina for California.

Cons of living in North Carolina Cons of living in California
Hurricanes High cost of living
Bland weather Heavy tax burdens
High crime rate Natural disasters
High tax burden Terrible traffic
Poor education Strange laws

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.

Things to do in California

Get excited to explore California. Don’t miss these top spots 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 North Carolina to California?

Going with a full-service North Carolina moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from North Carolina to California?

Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving package. Alternatively, you can book vehicle transport from North Carolina to California separately with a leading car shipping provider.

What are the benefits of moving from North Carolina to California?

Many people are making the move from North Carolina to California to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in California has to offer, like, ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in North Carolina or California?

Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in North Carolina, with average rent about 41% less and home prices 57% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in North Carolina, 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?

To live comfortably as a single adult in California, you should aim to make around $74,410. On average, expect to spend about $3,208 per month, or $8,077 monthly for a family of four. Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources