($1,623) Cost of Moving From Washington to California

Quick answer: Moving from Washington to California usually costs between $844 and $8,095, with most moves taking about two–seven days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Washington guide.

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The best Washington to California full-service movers

Planning a move from Washington to California? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.

Start your move from Washington to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in Washington.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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(866) 835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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(866) 935-3437
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Washington

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Washington, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.

  1. Eco Movers Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. You Move Me: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Mountain Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. ANC Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Seattle Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars

Eco Movers Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 3227005

Years in Business: 15

1200 W Nickerson St, Seattle, WA 98119

Eco Movers Moving has been a reliable choice for local residential moves in and around Seattle, WA, since 2010. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 on both Yelp and Google My Business from over 1100 reviews, it's clear that their customers consistently have positive experiences. Unlike many other nearby moving companies, Eco Movers also offers comprehensive services such as packing, unpacking, and specialized moves for items like pianos and grandfather clocks. They accept various payment methods, including cash and credit cards, and provide full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind during your move. The Better Business Bureau rates them an A+, making Eco Movers Moving a reputable and trusted option for your next local move.

Get a Quote (206) 971-6895

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 3227005
  • State license #: 3227005

Alternative Business Names

  • GS Moving Services LLC
  • Eco-Movers
  • The Big Guys
  • The Big Guys Home Delivery
  • Eco Movers
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You Move Me

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 2518689

Years in Business: 11

7620 NE 47th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98661

You Move Me offers exceptional local residential moving services throughout Vancouver, WA, and has been a trusted name in the industry since 2014. With an average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and an impressive 4.9 across nearly 1900 Google reviews, customer satisfaction is evidently high. Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, this company stands out for its reliability and professional service. Unlike many nearby competitors, You Move Me also provides comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and no deposit is required to secure a booking. Customers can rest easy knowing their move is in capable and caring hands.

Get a Quote (604) 262-2075

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • 0955821 BC Ltd.
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Mountain Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 885643

Years in Business: 62

9413 47th Ave SW Bldg 14 Suite E, Lakewood, WA 98499

Mountain Moving & Storage, based in Lakewood, WA, has been a trusted name in the local moving industry since 1964. Specializing in local residential moves, they also offer packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and high ratings on Google My Business, they stand out as a reliable choice compared to other nearby movers. While their Yelp reviews are mixed, the overall customer satisfaction is solid, making them a reputable option for moving needs in the area.

Get a Quote (800) 249-2414

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOT #: 885643
  • State license #: 885643
  • DOD certified

Alternative Business Names

  • Mountain Trucking Co Inc

Local Associations

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ANC Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 2877082

Years in Business: 9

5305 NE 121st, Ave #106, Vancouver, WA 98682

ANC Movers offers comprehensive local residential moving services in Vancouver, WA, and has been a trusted name in the community since 2017. Renowned for their stellar customer service, they boast an average rating of 4.7 on Yelp and 4.6 on Google, alongside an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, ANC Movers also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and even the specialized handling of items such as pianos, pool tables, and safes. Their commitment to customer convenience is evident with no deposit required, acceptance of credit cards, and full valuation insurance coverage.

Get a Quote (360) 992-8702

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Seattle Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 1731101

Years in Business: 22

521 S Monroe St., Seattle, WA 98108

Seattle Movers is a trusted local moving company offering residential moving services in and around Seattle, WA since 2003. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 from 161 Yelp reviews and a Better Business Bureau rating of A, their reputation speaks for itself. Unlike some other nearby movers, Seattle Movers also excels in providing packing and unpacking services, as well as expertly handling fragile items and antiques. They accept both cash and credit card payments, and although a deposit is required, they offer full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.

Get a Quote (206) 284-9445

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 1731101
  • State license #: HG063388

Alternative Business Names

  • Express Movers
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The best Washington to California moving container companies

Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in Washington and delivering it to your new place in California.

Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Washington to California moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from Washington to California? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Washington to California labor-only movers

If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.

For a smooth move from Washington to California, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 15
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 62
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4.1 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 72 Washington movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from Washington to California?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Washington to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,623 - $6,397 $1,024 - $2,394 $758 - $1,420
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,490 - $8,095 $1,892 - $3,793 $844 - $1,688
4+ bedrooms $5,772 - $10,961 $2,549 - $4,649 $1,080 - $2,117

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 954 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Washington to California

Planning a move from Washington to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,623 and $6,397. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,490 and $8,095 for the same journey (WA to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,772 to $10,961.

Cost of moving containers from Washington to California

If you’re relocating from Washington to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,024 and $2,394 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,892 up to $3,793. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,549 and $4,649. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Washington.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington 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 $758 and $1,420. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $844 and $1,688. Moving from Washington to California or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,080 and $2,117.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to CA

Several factors can influence your moving costs from Washington to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:

  • Move size: Larger homes are pricier to move than smaller spaces like studios.
  • Time of year: Prices rise during summer, which is peak moving season in Washington.
  • DIY vs. professional movers: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you time and hassle.

What to know before moving from WA to CA

If you’re moving to California from Washington, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: Washington vs. California

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Washington and California. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

Washington California
Average rent cost $1,900 $1,856
Average home cost $588,856 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $90,325 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 115 134
Unemployment rate 4.8% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 6.5% 8.68%
State Income Tax 0.0% 13.3%
  • You’ll pay about 2% less in rent in California compared to Washington, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
  • Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in California are typically about 31% higher than in Washington.
  • Great news—you’re likely to make about 2% more in California compared to Washington. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
  • Moving to California means you’ll be spending 17% more than you did in Washington. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is about 13% higher than in Washington. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
  • Sales taxes are 34% higher in California than in Washington, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
  • Income taxes in California are 13% higher than in Washington, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.

How life is different in California vs. Washington

Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in California compared to Washington across a few key lifestyle factors:

California Washington
Population 39,029,342 7,812,880
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Democratic
Summer high 87ºF 79ºF
Winter low 59ºF 31ºF
Annual rain 22" 38"
Annual snow 7" 18"
Crime index 28.43 37.32
  • If you’re relocating from Washington to California, you’ll notice that California has about 400% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
  • In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Washington supported Democratic.
  • Summer temperatures in California can soar to 87ºF, noticeably hotter than Washington, where highs typically reach 79ºF. Get ready for more sunshine, outdoor fun, and potentially higher cooling costs as you adjust to the warmer climate.
  • Winter lows in California stay around 59ºF, while Washington can plunge to a brisk 31ºF. Moving to California means you’ll get to experience milder winters, making day-to-day life simpler and often saving you money. With fewer icy days and less snow, you can spend more time outside and less time bundled up.
  • In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year—less than the 38 inches you’re used to in Washington. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
  • In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year, much less than the 18 inches you’d deal with in Washington. So, if you’re moving to California, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
  • Moving to California means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 28.43 versus Washington’s 37.32, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s comforting to know your new home offers extra security.

Comparing the pros of Washington vs. California

There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Washington.

Pros of living in Washington Pros of living in California
Beautiful landscapes Ample economic opportunity
Ample economic opportunity Pleasant weather
High quality of life Abundant recreational options
Bountiful recreational opportunities High quality of life
Delicious seafood Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. California

Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Washington to California.

Cons of living in Washington Cons of living in California
Constant rain High cost of living
Bad traffic Heavy tax burdens
High cost of living Natural disasters
High crime rate Terrible traffic
Natural disasters Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Washington to California move

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
  • HOA rules: Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
  • 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
  • State regulator: Easily verify a California moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on schedule. Get started here.
  • 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.
  • Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

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 Washington to California? toggle

Choosing a full-service Washington moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Washington to California? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Washington to California on your own through a top car shipping company.

What are the benefits of moving from Washington to California? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from Washington to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living in California, such as: ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Washington or California? toggle

Living in Washington usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Washington, with average rent about 2% less and home prices 24% lower than in California. Washington has no income tax.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California? toggle

If you’re planning to live solo in California, a comfortable income is around $74,410. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $3,208 on your own, or $8,077 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

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