Local moving companies in McAllen
Out of 7 McAllen movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- Rick’s Moving & Storage LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc.: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- Groves Moving and Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Flex Moving & Storage: 4.26 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 009769916C
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 1082164
Alternate Names: Rick’s Moving and Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0000006770
Years in Business: 86
DOT #: 125563
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 005443977C
Years in Business: 26
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 009668291C
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 2
DOT #: 3610638
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in McAllen, TX
At a glance, the number of McAllen movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from McAllen, TX to California
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from McAllen to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,282 – $4,840 | $1,038 – $2,724 | $1,035 – $2,073 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,187 – $7,112 | $1,946 – $4,024 | $1,120 – $2,275 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,028 – $10,491 | $2,686 – $5,197 | $1,370 – $2,872 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,809-mile move from McAllen, TX, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from McAllen to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from McAllen to California typically costs between $1,282 and $4,840. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,187 and $7,112. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,028 up to $10,491.
Cost of moving containers from McAllen to California
If you’re relocating from McAllen to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,038 and $2,724 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,946 up to $4,024. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,686 and $5,197. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from McAllen.
Cost of moving truck rentals from McAllen to California
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from McAllen to California, expect to pay between $1,035 and $2,073. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,120 to $2,275. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,370 and $2,872.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from McAllen to CA
The cost of a move in McAllen can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in McAllen often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from McAllen to CA
Journeying from McAllen to California opens up new possibilities, but be prepared for an increase in living expenses. As California tends to be pricier than McAllen, thorough budget planning is advised.
Take a look at how living in McAllen stacks up against California so you’re prepared before making the move:
Compare cost of living: McAllen vs. California
| McAllen, TX | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,350 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $221,244 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $57,439 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 76 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.9% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Anticipate rent being around 37% higher in California than in McAllen, which means less room in your budget.
- You’ll spend roughly 249% more on housing in California compared to McAllen, so plan for a larger mortgage.
- Exciting news: the average income is about 60% higher in California than in McAllen, so you’ll likely have more room to save or invest.
- On average, the cost of living in California is 76% above McAllen, so prepare for higher monthly expenses.
- The unemployment rate in California is around 32% lower than in McAllen, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
- California has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in McAllen, TX from California
When planning a move from McAllen to California, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the McAllen behind for life in California.
| McAllen, TX | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 142,210 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 58-41 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 96ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 49ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 22″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 36.26 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both McAllen and California voted Democratic.
- Summers in California average 87ºF, while McAllen hits highs of 96ºF. Opting for a cooler destination means less heat, lower energy bills, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, perfect if you prioritize comfort and enjoy spending time outside.
- Winter temperatures in California average 59ºF, warmer than McAllen, where lows dip to 49ºF. Expect simpler winters, lighter routines, and less time spent battling the cold.
- In California, expect around 22 inches of rainfall yearly, much like the 22 inches you’ve seen in McAllen. Your overall experience shouldn’t change much, though the seasonal rhythm of rain may differ.
- California gets about 7 inches of snow each year, while McAllen sees none. Moving to California means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- California has a lower crime index of 28.43 versus McAllen at 36.26, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.
Other considerations when moving to California
If you’re relocating from McAllen to California, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.
- 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, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- 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: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to California without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in California
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, California has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from McAllen to California take?
The time it takes to move from McAllen, TX, to California ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take five to 16 days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in McAllen offer custom-built crate services?
Four movers in McAllen list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a McAllen mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from McAllen to California?
Need to ship your car from McAllen to California? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Texas to California.
Why are people moving from McAllen to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in McAllen?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in McAllen.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from McAllen, TX?
THere are currently, two movers in McAllen that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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