Local moving companies in Albany
Out of 8 Albany movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- Mabey’s Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Clark Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Don’s Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 623
Years in Business: 68
DOT #: 125550
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 37553
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 125563
Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage , Clark Moving and Storage of Albany
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1462
Years in Business: 75
DOT #: 134890
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 35196
Years in Business: 99
DOT #: 1566123
Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 55254
Alternate Names: All-Ways Moving & Storage Co.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Albany, NY
At a glance, the number of Albany movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Albany, NY to California
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Albany to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,282 – $5,356 | $1,426 – $3,453 | $1,581 – $3,221 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,828 – $7,098 | $2,607 – $5,298 | $1,799 – $3,761 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,652 – $10,772 | $3,601 – $7,604 | $2,273 – $4,301 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,941-mile move from Albany, NY, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Albany to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Albany to California typically costs between $1,282 and $5,356. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,828 and $7,098. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,652 up to $10,772.
Cost of moving containers from Albany to California
If you’re relocating from Albany to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,426 and $3,453 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,607 up to $5,298. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,601 and $7,604. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Albany.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Albany 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 from Albany to California, expect to pay between $1,581 and $3,221. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,799 to $3,761. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,273 and $4,301.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from Albany to CA
The cost of a move in Albany can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in Albany often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from Albany to CA
Journeying from Albany to California opens up new possibilities, but be prepared for an increase in living expenses. As California tends to be pricier than Albany, thorough budget planning is advised.
Take a look at how living in Albany stacks up against California so you’re prepared before making the move:
Compare cost of living: Albany vs. California
| Albany, NY | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,450 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $281,584 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,546 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 99 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Anticipate rent being around 28% higher in California than in Albany, which means less room in your budget.
- You’ll spend roughly 174% more on housing in California compared to Albany, so plan for a larger mortgage.
- Exciting news: the average income is about 38% higher in California than in Albany, so you’ll likely have more room to save or invest.
- On average, the cost of living in California is 35% above Albany, so prepare for higher monthly expenses.
- The unemployment rate in California is around 24% lower than in Albany, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
- Taxes in California are roughly 22% higher than in New York, so you’ll notice a smaller paycheck.
How life is different in Albany, NY from California
When planning a move from Albany to California, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Albany behind for life in California.
| Albany, NY | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 99,224 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 65-33 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 83ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 15ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 52″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 10.0 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Albany and California voted Democratic.
- Summer highs typically reach about 87ºF in California and 83ºF in Albany. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Winter temperatures in California average 59ºF, warmer than Albany, where lows dip to 15ºF. Expect simpler winters, lighter routines, and less time spent battling the cold.
- In California, rainfall totals about 22 inches a year, less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Albany. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
- In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Albany gets 52 inches. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
- California posts a higher crime index of 28.43 compared to Albany’s 10.0. It’s worth checking local data and preparing for a potentially more challenging safety environment.
Other considerations when moving to California
If you’re relocating from Albany to California, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- 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 a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to California without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in California
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, California has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from Albany to California take?
The time it takes to move from Albany, NY, to California ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take seven to 21 days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in Albany offer custom-built crate services?
Three movers in Albany list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Albany mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Albany to California?
Need to ship your car from Albany to California? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from New York to California.
Why are people moving from Albany to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Albany?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Albany.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from Albany, NY?
THere are currently, two movers in Albany that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
Helpful moving resources
New York moving services
Popular New York routes
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