($1,554) Cost of Moving From New Jersey to California

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to New Jersey 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. Ample Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
2. Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.9 out of 5 stars
3. Flatrate Moving: 4.96 out of 5 stars
4. Monroe Moving Pro, LLC: 4.9 out of 5 stars
5. White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from New Jersey to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from New Jersey to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,554 and $6,752. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,778 to $9,309 for the trip from NJ to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $9,257 and $15,012.

Cost of moving containers from New Jersey to California

If you’re relocating from New Jersey to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,697 and $4,454 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $3,041 up to $6,760. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $4,373 and $8,959. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from New Jersey.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New Jersey 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 $1,929 and $3,745. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $2,240 and $4,640. Moving from New Jersey to California or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,644 and $5,417.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from NJ to CA

Several factors can influence your moving costs from New Jersey to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:

• Move size: Larger homes are pricier to move than smaller spaces like studios.
• Time of year: Prices rise during summer, which is peak moving season in New Jersey.
• DIY vs. professional movers: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you time and hassle.

• California has a population that's about 320% larger than New Jersey. 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 New Jersey went Democratic.
• Summer highs average 87ºF in California and 85ºF in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey can get as cold as 22ºF. 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 48 inches in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey, which gets 23 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 has a higher crime rate than New Jersey, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 16.2. 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.

Other things to consider for your New Jersey 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