How we chose the best moving companies for your OK to CA move
After studying pricing from 32 Oklahoma movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Oklahoma to California?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Oklahoma to California.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,249 – $4,941 |
$1,000 – $2,388 |
$860 – $1,665 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,911 – $6,612 |
$1,752 – $3,659 |
$959 – $2,081 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,907 – $9,415 |
$2,267 – $4,606 |
$1,243 – $2,322 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,502-mile move from OK to
CA are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Oklahoma to California
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Oklahoma to California will cost between
$1,249 and
$4,941.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from OK to CA will
range from $2,911 to
$6,612, and a large move from Oklahoma
to California will cost from $4,907
to $9,415.
Cost of moving containers from Oklahoma to California
If you’re moving from Oklahoma to California,
expect to pay between $1,000
and $2,388 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,752 up to
$3,659.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,267 and
$4,606. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Oklahoma.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Oklahoma to California
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$860 and
$1,665.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $959
and $2,081. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,243 up to
$2,322 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from OK to CA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Oklahoma to California. Here’s what might influence your total price:
-
Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Oklahoma is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from OK to CA
A relocation from Oklahoma to California comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Oklahoma vs. California
Comparing expenses in Oklahoma and California shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Oklahoma |
California |
| Average rent |
$934 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$205,968 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$61,364 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
86 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
8.95% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
4.75% |
13.3% |
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Rent in California is approximately 99% higher than in Oklahoma, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 274% higher in California than in Oklahoma.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 50% higher in California compared to Oklahoma. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to California means you’ll be paying 56% more than you did in Oklahoma. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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Unemployment in California is about 64% higher than in Oklahoma. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Oklahoma and California have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are 180% higher in California than in Oklahoma. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in California vs. Oklahoma
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in California stacks up against Oklahoma across important lifestyle factors:
|
California |
Oklahoma |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
4,053,824 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Republican 66-34 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
93ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
26ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
39″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
6″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
27.52 |
-
California is about 863% more populous than Oklahoma.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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In the most recent presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Oklahoma went with Republican.
-
California averages 87°F in summer, a cooler contrast to 93°F in Oklahoma.
Expect milder summers, lower utility costs, and more time to enjoy being outdoors.
-
During the coldest part of the year, California bottoms out around 59°F, compared to 26°F in Oklahoma.
A move to California with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of rain each year in California, compared to 39 inches in Oklahoma.
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 get about 7 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma averages around 6 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
California and Oklahoma have similar crime rates (28.43 vs. 27.52).
Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it’s important to research at the city or neighborhood level, as well.
Comparing the pros of Oklahoma vs. California
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in California versus Oklahoma:
| Pros of living in Oklahoma |
Pros of living in California |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living |
Pleasant weather |
| Delicious barbecue |
Abundant recreational options |
| Rapid earnings growth |
High quality of life |
Comparing the cons of living in Oklahoma vs. California
Moving from Oklahoma to California comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Oklahoma |
Cons of living in California |
| Dull landscape |
High cost of living |
| Destructive weather |
Heavy tax burdens |
| Poor education |
Natural disasters |
| Dangerous drivers |
Terrible traffic |
| Low diversity |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Oklahoma to California move
-
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:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify a California moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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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.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Oklahoma to California?
Do movers transport your car from Oklahoma to California?
What are the benefits of moving from Oklahoma to California?
The main reasons people are moving from Oklahoma to California are the amazing upsides of living in California, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Oklahoma or California?
Living in Oklahoma usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in Oklahoma,
with average rent about 50% less and home prices 73% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Oklahoma, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
You should make approximately $73,978 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in California.
The cost of living in California is about $5,276 per month for an individual and $10,220 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Oklahoma?
Some movers in Oklahoma provide budget-friendly deals.
In Oklahoma, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 1 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 1 movers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Oklahoma to California, expect to spend between
$2,911–$6,612 if using professional movers, about
$2,705 for a moving container, and around
$1,520
for a rental truck.
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