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Chesapeake, VA to Irvine, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan
 • 5 min read
checkmarkFact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Quick answer: Moving from Chesapeake to Irvine (about 2,718 miles) typically costs $4,201–$8,397 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.

Estimates based on moveBuddha pricing data as of March 2026. Prices can change based on how much you're moving, demand, add-on services like packing, and how flexible your move dates are.

Cost to move from Chesapeake to Irvine

Moving from Chesapeake, VA to Irvine, CA typically costs $4,201–$8,397 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.

The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,718-mile move from Chesapeake to Irvine, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of March 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.

On average, moveBuddha users save 30% by comparing options with our moving cost calculator.

Estimated moving costs from Chesapeake, VA to Irvine, CA

Move size Professional movers Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $2,649–$6,175 $2,038–$4,169 $1,633–$3,132
2–3 bedrooms $4,201–$8,397 $2,698–$5,513 $1,897–$3,925
4+ bedrooms $8,058–$12,880 $3,758–$7,671 $2,422–$4,721

Recent moving quotes for similar moves

These are real moving quotes similar to your Chesapeake to Irvine move using our proprietary live pricing feed. Exact pricing can vary, but the examples below show what movers have actually charged for similar move sizes and service types.

  • AB Moving recently quoted $5,578 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
  • United Van Lines recently quoted $4,600 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
  • North American Van Lines recently quoted $5,930 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
AB Moving
Dendron, VA › Westmont, CA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Feb 18, 2026
$5,578
Get a Quote
United Van Lines
Hampton, VA › Lennox, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 30, 2026
$4,600
Get a Quote
North American Van Lines
Bethel Manor, VA › Diamond Bar, CA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 19, 2026
$5,930
Get a Quote
BLVD Moving
Franklin, VA › Temple City, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 14, 2026
$7,585
Get a Quote
1-800-Pack-Rat
Smithfield, VA › West Puente Valley, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 09, 2026
$5,608
Get a Quote
Safeway Moving
Suffolk, VA › Coto de Caza, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 05, 2026
$7,665
Get a Quote
Mayflower Transit
Portsmouth, VA › Anaheim, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 23, 2025
$11,608
Get a Quote
Allied Van Lines
Newport News, VA › March ARB, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 13, 2025
$10,583
Get a Quote
PODS
Poquoson, VA › Buena Park, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 29, 2025
$6,353
Get a Quote
Budget Truck Rental
Chesapeake, VA › Huntington Beach, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Nov 27, 2025
$1,643
Get a Quote

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Irvine, CA to Chesapeake, VA guide.

Best Chesapeake to Irvine movers by type

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
Get A Quote
(866) 825-0554

When moving from Chesapeake to Irvine, most households compare professional movers, moving containers, rental trucks, and labor-only services. Each option offers a different balance between price, convenience, and control.

  • Professional movers: Best if you want a hands-off move and professionals handling the logistics.
  • Moving containers: A middle ground where you pack and load, while the company transports the container.
  • Rental trucks: Usually the lowest base price, but you handle driving and most of the work.
  • Local movers: Some city-based movers can handle interstate moves, especially shorter routes.
  • Labor-only: Hire help for loading or unloading while you manage theNeed flexibility on moving day? Opt for a truck or container. This choice lets you pack at your own pace and manage your belongings the way you want.
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Local Movers Icon
Local

Best professional movers from Chesapeake to Irvine

The average cost of professional movers is $4,201–$8,397 for a typical 2–3 bedroom move from Chesapeake, VA to Irvine, CA. Professional interstate movers are the best choice if you want a hands-off move with packing, loading, transportation, and unloading handled by experts.

To compare top-rated companies, see our guide to the best interstate moving companies.

Safeway Moving
Get Quote
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
American Van Lines
Get Quote
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.9
Allied Van Lines
Get Quote
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
4.2

Key factors that influence Chesapeake to Irvine moving costs

The price of a move between Chesapeake and Irvine depends on several logistical factors.

  • Shipment size and weight: Interstate movers primarily price moves based on shipment weight and the amount of space your items take up in the truck. Smaller moves can start around $2,649, while larger homes may reach $12,880 or more depending on inventory.
  • Distance and route logistics: The move from Chesapeake to Irvine covers about 2,718 miles. Longer routes increase transportation costs and may require additional fuel, driver time, and coordination.
  • Move date and demand: Moving companies charge more during busy periods like summer and month-end weekends. Flexible scheduling, such as moving mid-week or mid-month, can sometimes lower your quote.
  • Service level you choose: Full-service movers handle packing, loading, transport, and unloading, which raises the price. Containers and rental trucks are often cheaper because you handle more of the work yourself.
  • Packing and extra services: Professional packing, storage-in-transit, or specialty handling for fragile or oversized items can increase the final price.

Other factors to consider for your Chesapeake to Irvine move

  • HOA rules: Check any neighborhood or community rules on moving to avoid delays on move day.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, find out how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require permits for large vehicles and moving trucks, check 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. Make sure the moving company you use is properly licensed before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: California does not typically require moving permits, but it’s still smart to check local parking restrictions before move-in day.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Irvine smoothly. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: State rules differ on mover insurance. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized.

What to know before moving from Chesapeake to Irvine

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move, in terms of the cost of living Irvine runs about 387% higher for singles and 392% higher for families than Chesapeake.

Singles spend around $1,882 in Chesapeake versus $9,167 in Irvine. Families pay $3,656 compared to $18,000.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Chesapeake Irvine
Average 1 bedroom rent $1,775 $2,719
Average 3 bedroom rent $2,250 $4,575
Average home value $375,209 $1,561,760
Average income (per capita) $63,484 $114,027
Cost of living (single) $1,882 $9,167
Cost of living (family of four) $3,656 $18,000
Unemployment rate 5.0% 5.4%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.75%
State income tax 5.75% 13.3%
source: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation
  • Rent is about 122% higher in Irvine than in Chesapeake.
  • Home prices are about 316% higher in Irvine than in Chesapeake.
  • Average income is about 80% higher in Irvine than in Chesapeake.
  • Irvine has a higher unemployment rate than Chesapeake by about 8%.
  • Sales tax is higher in Irvine than in Chesapeake.
  • State income tax is higher in California than in Virginia.

How common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Chesapeake and Irvine

Here's a breakdown of typical everyday costs in both cities:

Living expense Chesapeake Irvine
Basic utilities $303 $201
Cell phone plan $54 $54
Dozen eggs $3 $5
Loaf of bread $4 $5
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $13 $25
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70 $100
Gym membership $43 $54
  • Basic utilities cost more in Chesapeake than in Irvine.
  • A quick meal costs less in Chesapeake than in Irvine.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Chesapeake than in Irvine.

How life is different in Chesapeake vs. Irvine

Here are some ways life is different between Chesapeake and Irvine:

Chesapeake Irvine
Population 249,422 307,670
Transportation score 2 4
Walkability score 21 43
Bike friendliness score 35 69
Crime index 25.0 31.01
Safety index 70.88 68.99
Air quality Good Good
source: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
  • Irvine's population is about 23% greater than Chesapeake.
  • Irvine has a higher public transportation score (4 out of 10) than Chesapeake (2).
  • Irvine is more walkable (43 out of 100) than Chesapeake (21).
  • Irvine is more bike friendly (69 out of 100) than Chesapeake (35).
  • Irvine has a higher crime index than Chesapeake (31.01 vs 25.0).
  • Chesapeake and Irvine have similar safety scores (70.88 vs 68.99).
  • Air quality in Chesapeake is Good, and in Irvine it’s Good.

Where to live in Irvine

Now that you've decided to make the move to , these are the best neighborhoods to consider in Irvine.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Westpark
  • Westpark II
  • Oak Creek
  • Woodbridge
  • University Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Westpark II
  • Turtle Rock
  • Woodbridge
  • South Irvine
  • Northwood Point

Things to do in Irvine

After settling into your new home in California, you can start exploring what Irvine has to offer:

  • Arts and culture:Irvine is home to museums and cultural attractions like the Pretend City Children's Museum, Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art, and Museum of Woman.
  • Outdoor recreation:The city’s Orange County Great Park, Adventure Playground, William R. Mason Regional Park, and Turtle Rock Community Park are great places for walks, trails, and time outside.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an UC Irvine Anteaters (Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball, Water Polo)Adult Basketball LeaguesAdult Soccer LeaguesAdult Softball LeaguesTennis LeagueSand Volleyball LeagueKickball League game.
source: AttractionsofAmerica

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chesapeake to Irvine?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chesapeake to Irvine. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chesapeake.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chesapeake to Irvine?

With many people choosing to move from Chesapeake to Irvine in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Chesapeake to Irvine take?

Covering 2,718 miles, the move from Chesapeake, VA to Irvine, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Chesapeake movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Irvine can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Chesapeake offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Chesapeake can handle specialty items for my move to Irvine?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chesapeake, 17 movers can handle pianos. 10 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of VA, there are 79 piano movers and 49 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.
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