How we chose the best moving companies for your ND to CA move
Using rate data from 11 North Dakota movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from North Dakota to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from North Dakota
to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,491 – $5,273 |
$1,014 – $2,601 |
$953 – $1,777 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,630 – $8,250 |
$1,734 – $3,728 |
$1,011 – $2,314 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,595 – $10,885 |
$2,418 – $5,101 |
$1,393 – $2,667 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,717-mile move from ND to
CA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from North Dakota to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from North Dakota to California,
you can expect to spend between $1,491
and $5,273.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,630 to
$8,250 on the same route
(ND to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from North Dakota to California typically runs between
$6,595 and
$10,885.
Cost of moving containers from North Dakota to California
Moving from North Dakota to California? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $1,014 and
$2,601. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,734 to
$3,728. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,418 up to
$5,101. 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 North Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Dakota 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
$953 and
$1,777.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$1,011 and
$2,314.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,393 and
$2,667.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ND to CA
There are many factors that influence North Dakota moving costs. The cost to move from North Dakota to California will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in North Dakota fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
-
Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from ND to CA
Moving between North Dakota and California involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: North Dakota vs. California
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
North Dakota 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 Dakota |
California |
| Average rent |
$912 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$263,410 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$73,959 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.4% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.96% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
2.9% |
13.3% |
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Rent costs 104% more in California compared to North Dakota. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 193% more than what you’ll find in North Dakota.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 24% more in California compared to North Dakota. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Moving to California will cost you 40% more than living in North Dakota, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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California has a higher unemployment rate than North Dakota by about 125%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
-
Shoppers in California pay about 25% more in sales tax than those in North Dakota, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
-
Income taxes in California are 359% higher than in North Dakota. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. North Dakota
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how California differs from North Dakota in these areas.
|
California |
North Dakota |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
783,926 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Republican 68-32 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
0ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
19″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
22.74 |
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If you’re relocating from North Dakota to California, you’ll notice that California has about 4879% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and North Dakota voted Republican.
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Summer highs in California average 87°F, almost the same as 82°F in North Dakota.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in California average 59°F, compared to 0°F in North Dakota.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 19 inches you’ve been used to in North Dakota.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to North Dakota, which gets 39 inches annually.
Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
California reports a higher crime rate than North Dakota, with a crime index of 28.43 versus 22.74.
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 Dakota vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against North Dakota:
| Pros of living in North Dakota |
Pros of living in California |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Peaceful rural life |
Pleasant weather |
| Affordable living costs |
Abundant recreational options |
| High-quality education opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Open rural spaces |
Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in North Dakota vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from North Dakota to California, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in North Dakota |
Cons of living in California |
| Long and cold winters |
High cost of living |
| Lack of diversity |
Heavy tax burdens |
| Housing shortages |
Natural disasters |
| Small populations |
Terrible traffic |
| Relaxed lifestyle |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your North Dakota to California move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
-
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:
Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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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:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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 ready to discover California. Check out these must-visit places 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 Dakota to California?
Do movers transport your car from North Dakota to California?
What are the benefits of moving from North Dakota to California?
More and more folks are relocating from North Dakota to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in North Dakota or California?
Living in North Dakota usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in North Dakota,
with average rent about 51% less and home prices 66% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 70% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
If you’re planning to live on your own in California, aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $5,276 if you’re flying solo, or $10,220 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in North Dakota?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in North Dakota.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 1 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
North Dakota moving services
Popular North Dakota routes
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When planning a move from North Dakota to California, professional movers typically run between
$3,630 and $8,250, a moving container averages about
$2,731, and a rental truck is around
$1,662.
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