($1,561) Cost of Moving From New York to California

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to New York 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. Roadway Moving : 4.96 out of 5 stars
2. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
3. Sheridan Brothers Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
4. Triangle Movers Inc.: 4.86 out of 5 stars
5. Flatrate Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from New York to California

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New York to California, you can expect to spend between $1,561 and $6,713. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,434 to $9,174 on the same route (NY to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from New York to California typically runs between $8,939 and $14,356.

Cost of moving containers from New York to California

When you’re heading from New York to California, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,724 and $4,704. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $3,121 and $6,401. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,267 to $9,560. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from New York easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York 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 $1,966 and $3,890. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $2,064 to $4,631. If you’re heading from New York to California or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,800 and $5,630.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from NY to CA

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from New York 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 New York.
• DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.

• If you’re relocating from New York to California, you’ll notice that California has about 99% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while New York supported Democratic.
• Summer temperatures in California can soar to 87ºF, noticeably hotter than New York, where highs typically reach 81ºF. Get ready for more sunshine, outdoor fun, and potentially higher cooling costs as you adjust to the warmer climate.
• Winter lows in California stay around 59ºF, while New York can plunge to a brisk 16ºF. Moving to California means you’ll get to experience milder winters, making day-to-day life simpler and often saving you money. With fewer icy days and less snow, you can spend more time outside and less time bundled up.
• In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year—less than the 44 inches you’re used to in New York. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
• In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year, much less than the 62 inches you’d deal with in New York. So, if you’re moving to California, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
• California has a higher crime rate than New York, with crime indexes at 28.43 and 21.51, respectively. While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.

Other things to consider for your New York 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: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
• 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
• 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
• State regulator: You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
• Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
• 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.
• Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed 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