How we chose the best moving companies for your OR to CA move
Using rate data from 37 Oregon movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Oregon to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Oregon
to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,304 – $3,983 |
$717 – $1,749 |
$481 – $909 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,451 – $5,695 |
$1,303 – $2,374 |
$499 – $1,005 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,224 – $8,502 |
$1,676 – $3,172 |
$654 – $1,203 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 668-mile move from OR to
CA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Oregon to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Oregon to California,
you can expect to spend between $1,304
and $3,983.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,451 to
$5,695 on the same route
(OR to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Oregon to California typically runs between
$4,224 and
$8,502.
Cost of moving containers from Oregon to California
Moving from Oregon to California? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $717 and
$1,749. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,303 to
$2,374. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,676 up to
$3,172. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Oregon.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Oregon to California
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$481 and
$909.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$499 and
$1,005.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $654 and
$1,203.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from OR to CA
There are many factors that influence Oregon moving costs. The cost to move from Oregon to California will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Oregon fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from OR to CA
Moving between Oregon and California involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Oregon vs. California
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Oregon and California. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Oregon |
California |
| Average rent |
$1,373 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$492,683 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$76,632 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.0% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
0.0% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
9.9% |
13.3% |
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Rent costs 35% more in California compared to Oregon. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 57% more than what you’ll find in Oregon.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 20% more in California compared to Oregon. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Moving to California will cost you 34% more than living in Oregon, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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California has a higher unemployment rate than Oregon by about 35%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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California has a sales tax, while Oregon does not. Expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
-
Income taxes in California are 34% higher than in Oregon. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Oregon
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how California differs from Oregon in these areas.
|
California |
Oregon |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
4,233,358 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
41″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
13″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
32.78 |
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If you’re relocating from Oregon to California, you’ll notice that California has about 822% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Oregon and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in California average 87°F, almost the same as 82°F in Oregon.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in California average 59°F, compared to 31°F in Oregon.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
In California, you’ll see about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 41 inches you’re used to in Oregon.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Oregon, which gets 13 inches annually.
Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
California offers a safer environment than Oregon, with a crime index of 28.43 versus 32.78.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Oregon vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Oregon:
| Pros of living in Oregon |
Pros of living in California |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious and authentic wineries |
Pleasant weather |
| Beautiful summer weather |
Abundant recreational options |
| No sales tax |
High quality of life |
| Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Oregon vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Oregon to California, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Oregon |
Cons of living in California |
| Difficult housing market |
High cost of living |
| High cost of living |
Heavy tax burdens |
| Poor quality education |
Natural disasters |
| Low marks for personal safety |
Terrible traffic |
| Heavy tax burden |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Oregon to California move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
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.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
-
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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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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.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover California. Check out these must-visit places in your new home 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 Oregon to California?
Do movers transport your car from Oregon to California?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Oregon to California
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Oregon to California?
More and more folks are relocating from Oregon to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Oregon or California?
Living in Oregon usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in Oregon,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 36% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Oregon, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
If you’re planning to live on your own in California, aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $5,276 if you’re flying solo, or $10,220 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Oregon?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Oregon.
Savings for seniors are available from 2 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Oregon to California, professional movers typically run between
$2,451 and $5,695, a moving container averages about
$1,838, and a rental truck is around
$752.
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