Quick answer: A typical 2,816-mile move from Albany to Los Angeles runs $1,885–$8,065 and takes seven to 21 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Los Angeles to Albany guide.

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

When you’ve got 4 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Albany, the search for the right one can quickly become overwhelming. And that’s after you decide whether to hand the job over to a full-service team or keep more control — and save a little money — with a DIY approach.

We’ve already done the hard work for you. Each Albany mover was reviewed for services offered, pricing, and overall value, with customer experiences drawn from online reviews. From there, we narrowed the field to the best long-distance movers in Albany, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Best professional movers from Albany to Los Angeles

Making the trip from Albany to Los Angeles is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

We’ve put together a list of the best full-service movers for this route to help you make the move with ease.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Albany?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare Albany with the broader NY landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service Albany (Count) Albany (%) New York (Count) New York (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 5 100% 116 99% 2523 98%
Unpacking 5 100% 113 97% 2491 97%
Fragile-only packing 2 40% 24 21% 620 24%
Packing materials 1 20% 37 32% 1502 58%
Storage
Storage 4 80% 106 91% 2225 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 20% 53 45% 817 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 2 40% 90 77% 1628 63%
Art 2 40% 76 65% 1256 49%
Antiques 2 40% 67 57% 1176 46%
Piano 2 40% 96 82% 1901 74%
Hot tub 1 20% 37 32% 575 22%
Pool table 1 20% 45 38% 834 32%

How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 108 New York 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.

Local movers servicing Albany to Los Angeles moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Albany that also provides long-distance services to Los Angeles can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in Albany who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Albany to Los Angeles.

  1. Mabey's Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Clark Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Schaap Moving Systems Inc: 4.1 out of 5 stars
  5. Ideal Movers & Storage, Inc.: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/mabeys/, https://twitter.com/mabeysmoving?lang=en
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Mabey's Moving & Storage stands out with an impressive 92.5% positive feedback from 254 reviews, setting a high bar for moving companies. Customers consistently describe the staff as professional, respectful, and attentive, praising the team's careful handling of belongings and efficient work ethic. Many highlight smooth communication, quick processes from booking to move day, and successful management of complex or long-distance moves.
Most clients recommend Mabey's without hesitation, citing reliable estimates and stress-free experiences as major strengths. Negative input, making up about 7% of feedback, points to issues like damaged items, discrepancies in final costs versus estimates, and communication shortfalls in rare cases. Complaints sometimes reference insurance limitations or mishandling claims. A single neutral review notes both prompt reimbursements and delays during delivery. Compared to typical industry standards, Mabey’s earns stronger praise for care, politeness, and problem resolution, though accurate cost estimation remains an area for improvement. The company's reputation for professionalism and reliability is consistently reinforced by customer input.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

State license #: 623

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 125550


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/clarkmovingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/clarkmovinginc?lang=en
82% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Clark Moving & Storage stands out for delivering reliable results and excellent service, supported by feedback from 81 reviews with over 81% positive ratings. Customers consistently praise their professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and quick moving process. Many highly recommend the company for making stressful moves feel smooth and straightforward.
Numerous reviewers note clear communication, organized packing, and affordable pricing compared to other moving companies. Some even highlight the movers’ thorough preparation and respect for customers’ belongings. On the downside, less than one in five reviewers cite problems such as damaged items, unexpected charges, or lack of communication. Negative input describes instances where items were broken or missing, or costs changed without warning. By comparison, Clark Moving & Storage regularly delivers a higher level of care and professionalism than most moving companies in the region, though a few dissatisfied customers experienced avoidable setbacks. Clark is a strong option for quality moving services, with overwhelmingly positive feedback and only minor recurring problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 370-4100

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
https://www.facebook.com/ArnoffMoving/,
64% of all reviews were positive
34% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Arnoff Moving & Storage stands out for its consistently professional, courteous staff, efficient moving teams, and excellent care in handling belongings—earning praise in nearly two-thirds of the 238 customer feedback items reviewed. Customers frequently commend their strong communication, punctual crews, and smooth, quick-moving experiences. People highlight Arnoff’s attention to detail, competitive pricing, and a willingness to answer questions or resolve logistical challenges, often noting how their movers made stressful moves less overwhelming. Yet, nearly one in three customers report serious complaints, with the chief frustrations being damaged or lost items, lengthy delivery delays, and poor follow-up when problems arise.
Reports include mishandling of valuable furniture, missed scheduling windows, and a lack of responsiveness from support staff. A few critics point to problems with insurance claims for damage or missing property, suggesting performance can be inconsistent, especially for large or high-value moves. Compared to similar moving companies, Arnoff generally exceeds expectations for professionalism and efficiency, but the risk of communication breakdowns and damaged goods appears higher than average. Prospective customers seeking attentive and careful handling will likely be pleased, but those with complex, valuable shipments should confirm all details ahead and document any special requirements.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 463-5525

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
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Local-Business/Schaap-Moving-Systems-Inc-1541830379271476/,
77% of all reviews were positive
21% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Schaap Moving Systems Inc stands out for delivering efficient service with professional, polite staff and careful handling. Most people praised their quick moves, strong communication, and attention to detail. Flexible scheduling and transparent quoting helped ease stressful moves.
Input highlighted responsive coordination, organized packing, and respectful treatment of possessions. While 77% of feedback is positive, 21% describes serious communication breakdowns, inaccurate estimates, delayed deliveries, and unresolved claims—especially regarding damaged items or lack of follow-up. Negative experiences show frustration when issues arise and customer support doesn't respond promptly. Compared to similar moving companies, Schaap impresses with speed, professionalism, and care—yet complaints make clear that reliable customer support and clearer estimates would improve trust and satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 459-2220

Company Info

State license #: 294

Years in Business: 102

DOT #: 31675

Alternate Names: Go Minis


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/idealmoversandstorage/,
91% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers highlight Ideal Movers & Storage, Inc. for their skill in handling belongings, prompt and efficient service, and professional staff. Feedback often notes secure, well-maintained storage, clear communication, and honest pricing, with most moves exceeding expectations. Virtually every reviewer would recommend their services.
Feedback rarely mentions negative experiences, with no significant complaints provided. Their high volume of praise, especially compared to other moving companies, points to an unusually strong reputation for reliability and care. With 23 reviews analyzed, over 91% of feedback rates their services positively.
Show more
Get a Quote (413) 453-9049

Company Info

State license #: 30103

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 543781


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Albany to Los Angeles?

Albany movers charge $115 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,292 - $5,450 $1,621 - $3,838 $1,775 - $3,510
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,858 - $8,065 $2,760 - $6,066 $1,885 - $4,139
4+ bedrooms $7,782 - $12,248 $3,966 - $8,113 $2,454 - $5,179
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,816 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

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 $1,292 and $5,450. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,858 to $8,065 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 $7,782 and $12,248.

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 $1,621 and $3,838. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,760 and $6,066. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,966 to $8,113. 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 typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,775 and $3,510 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,885 to $4,139. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,454 to $5,179.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Albany to Los Angelestoggle

The cost of Albany movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Albany to Los Angeles might cost as little as $1,292, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,899.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Albany, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,775 to $4,722 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Albany to Los Angeles

Los Angeles typically comes with higher living costs — around 118% more for singles and 119% more for families than Albany.

Singles pay roughly $3,922 vs. $1,801; families average $9,213 vs. $4,205.

Check the breakdown below to see where the increases show up:

Albany Los Angeles
Average 1 BR rent $1,426 $2,603
Average 3 BR rent $2,900 $4,443
Average home value $281,584 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $66,546 $74,993
Unemployment rate 7.1% 10.6%
Sales tax 8.0% 9.5%
State income tax 10.9% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Los Angeles, since prices are typically 104% higher than in Albany.
  • The home prices in Los Angeles are 741.0% higher than in Albany, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Los Angeles, where incomes are, on average, 12.7% higher than in Albany. Major employers in Los Angeles include County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School District, and City of Los Angeles (including DWP).
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Los Angeles, since the cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 117.8% higher than in Albany. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Los Angeles, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 119.1% higher than in Albany.
  • The unemployment rate in Los Angeles is 49.30% higher than in Albany.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Los Angeles, since its sales taxes are 18.75% higher than what you are paying in Albany.
  • State income taxes in Los Angeles are 22.02% higher than in Albany.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Albany versus Los Angeles.

Albany Los Angeles
Basic utilities $203.15 $192.54
Cell phone plan $57.53 $62.5
Dozen eggs $4.71 $7.02
Loaf of bread $3.93 $4.58
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19 $25
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $79.5 $100
Gym membership $31.25 $47.76
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Albany than in Los Angeles.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Albany than in Los Angeles.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Albany than in Los Angeles.
  • Bread costs less in Albany than in Los Angeles.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Albany than in Los Angeles.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Albany than in Los Angeles.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Albany than in Los Angeles.

How life is different in Albany vs. Los Angeles

Los Angeles Albany
Population 3,820,914 99,224
Transportation Score 8 8
Walkability score 69 65
Bike friendliness score 59 55
Crime Index 53.81 10.0
Safety Index 46.19 49.65
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Los Angeles's population is about 3,751% greater than Albany.
  • Los Angeles's public transportation has a similar score to Albany.
  • Los Angeles is more walkable than Albany with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Albany's 65 out of 100.
  • With a score of 59 out of 100, Los Angeles is more bike-friendly than Albany, which has a score of 55 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Los Angeles's crime rate is higher than Albany with a score of 53.81 compared to Albany's 10.0. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0%.
  • Los Angeles and Albany are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Los Angeles is moderate, and in Albany it's good.

Other things to consider for your Albany vs. Los Angeles move

  • Weather: The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Los Angeles Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Now that you've decided to make the move to City of Angels, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Los Angeles.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

Things to do in Los Angeles

After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Los Angeles has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Los Angeles features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, Battleship USS Iowa Museum, and The Broad.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), Los Angeles FC (MLS), or Los Angeles Kings (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Albany to Los Angeles?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Albany to Los Angeles. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Albany.

When is the cheapest time to move from Albany to Los Angeles?

Because spring and fall moves from Albany to Los Angeles are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Albany to Los Angeles take?

The 2,816-mile journey from Albany, NY to Los Angeles, CA, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Albany offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Los Angeles.

How many movers in Albany can handle specialty items for my move to Los Angeles?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Albany, 2 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NY, there are 96 piano movers and 67 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 1901 and 1176 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources