($1,240) Movers From Portland, OR to California

1. PDX Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. All Service Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
3. 2 Brothers Moving & Delivery: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. ANC Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. You Move Me: 4.62 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Portland to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Portland to California will cost between $1,240 and $4,368. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,469 to $6,632, and a large move will cost from $4,334 to $8,547.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to California

If you’re moving from Portland to California, expect to pay between $737 and $1,750 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,354 up to $2,685. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,725 and $3,531. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Portland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland 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 from Portland to California, expect to spend between $543 and $980. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $579 and $1,247. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $733 up to $1,368 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

When calculating the price of Portland movers, consider:

• Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
• Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Portland, so moving companies will likely charge more.
• DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.

• With rent about 21% higher in California than Portland, prepare for steeper monthly costs.
• Homes in California cost about 48% more than in Portland, so expect a higher mortgage payment.
• Expect incomes in California to be about 7% higher than in Portland, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
• The cost of living in California is nearly identical to Portland, so budget impacts should be minimal.
• In California, the unemployment rate is about 22% below Portland’s, a positive sign of healthier job opportunities.
• Income taxes run about 34% higher in California than in Oregon, which means less spending money.

• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Portland supported Republican.
• Hot summer days in California can escalate up to 87ºF, providing a distinctly warmer experience than Portland, where temperatures average around 81ºF. Anticipate sunnier skies, enjoyable outdoor recreation, and possible increases in energy spending as you embrace the warmer atmosphere.
• Winter lows in California are milder, around 59ºF, compared to the colder 36ºF in Portland. This means easier winters, fewer icy days, and potentially lower heating bills.
• You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of annual rain in California, which is less than the 43 inches you’re used to in Portland. That means brighter skies, extra outdoor time, and fewer rainy-day interruptions.
• In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, Portland averages around 3 inches annually. With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
• California has a lower crime rate than Portland, with indexes at 28.43 vs 57.37. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.

• HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see 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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
• Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
• 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 forwarded to California. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to 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: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.