Moving from Columbus, OH to Oakland, CA: Movers and Cost

Sergio Ocampo has reviewed hundreds of moving companies and is an expert at all things moving.

Last Updated: Aug 2, 2022 · 5 min

Quick Answer: The cost to move from Columbus, OH to Oakland, CA averages from $2,041 to $9,441 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself. Hiring movers will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or renting a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.

In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move to Oakland, CA. But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:

Best Columbus to Oakland movers: We’ve handpicked the best moving companies from Columbus to Oakland.
How much will your move cost?: Use our moving calculator to get a more accurate estimate on moving costs.
Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies.
Columbus to Oakland car shippers: Moving your car? Here's a list of our top car shipping companies.

Moving 2,415 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.

How much does it cost to move from Columbus to Oakland?

Here are average prices to hire a moving company, rent a moving container, or rent a moving truck:

Move Size	Moving Company	Moving Container	Rental Truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom	$1,606 - $6,499	$1,868 - $3,166	$1,884 - $2,479
2 - 3 bedrooms	$4,441 - $9,441	$3,264 - $4,966	$2,041 - $2,952
4+ bedrooms	$8,341 - $14,595	$4,513 - $6,392	$2,599 - $3,628

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,415 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.

The cost to move from Columbus to Oakland will depend on:

Move size: 5 bedroom homes are more expensive to move than 1 bedroom apartments.
Time of year: Summer is busy season so moving companies charge more.
Do-it-yourself vs Professional Mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress.

How Much do Movers Cost?

Get instant ballpark pricing. No email or phone required. It's fast, free, and easy.

Who Are The Best Columbus to Oakland Movers?

Hiring a moving company is a big deal.

We’ve researched over 500 interstate moving companies, cross-referencing verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records to find you the best long distance moving companies in the industry.

If you’re moving a 1 bedroom apartment worth of stuff or more, these are the best full service moving companies.

Company	Quote	Rating
Safeway Moving Systems Best Overall Value	Get A Quote	5 overall rating
American Van Lines Best industry reputation	Get A Quote	4.85 overall rating
Air Van northAmerican Van Lines Best for complex moves	Get A Quote	4.35 overall rating

If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.

How to ship a car from Columbus to Oakland

Now that you've picked from the top movers for your belongings, it's time to choose an experienced and reputable Columbus to Oakland car shipper.

Just like booking a reputable mover, professional car shippers will apply know-how and experience to make sure that your car makes it unscathed during this long-distance move.

Company	Our Take	Rating
Montway Auto Transport	Best Overall Value	5 overall rating
Ship A Car Direct	Best Insurance Coverage	4.75 overall rating
Easy Auto Ship	best for quick pick up	4.5 overall rating

Is moving from Columbus, OH to Oakland, CA a good idea?

Cost of Living: Columbus vs Oakland

	Columbus	Oakland	% difference
Average rent cost	$912	$2,050	125%
Average home value	$223,836	$1,006,090	349.5%
Average income (per capita)	$60,205	$82,018	36.2%
Cost of Living (single person)	$915	$1,318	44.0%
Cost of Living (family of 4)	$3,229	$4,657	44.2%
Unemployment rate	5.7%	8.0%	40.35%
Sales Tax	7.5%	10.25%	+36.67%
State Income Tax	3.99%	13.3%	+233.33%

How is life different in Columbus, OH to Oakland, CA?

	Oakland	Columbus
Population	440,646	905,748
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score	8	5
Walkability score	75	41
Bike friendliness score	65	48
Crime Index	65.06	37.49
Safety Index	33.51	56.58
Air Quality	Good	Good

Considerations for moving to Oakland, CA

Weather: Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters..
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 you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
Truck Parking Permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
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: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forward to Oakland. Get started here.
Moving Company Insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.