How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to CA move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 10 West Virginia moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from West Virginia to California?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from West Virginia to California.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,349 – $5,164 |
$1,281 – $3,061 |
$1,313 – $2,593 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,749 – $8,020 |
$2,344 – $4,924 |
$1,435 – $3,024 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,699 – $11,232 |
$3,228 – $6,245 |
$1,870 – $3,788 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 2,545-mile move from WV to
CA using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from West Virginia to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from West Virginia to California,
you can expect prices to land between $1,349
and $5,164.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,749 to
$8,020 for the trip from WV
to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$6,699 and
$11,232.
Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to California
Moving containers from West Virginia to California
will cost you $1,281 to
$3,061 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,344
to $4,924. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $3,228 to
$6,245.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of West Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from West Virginia to California
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$1,313
and $2,593
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,435
to $3,024.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,870
to $3,788.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WV to CA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from West Virginia to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in West Virginia generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from WV to CA
Making the move from West Virginia to California means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: West Virginia vs. California
A clear look at the cost differences between West Virginia and California helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
West Virginia |
California |
| Average rent |
$899 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$168,172 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$55,217 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.2% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
6.5% |
13.3% |
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Rent in California is about 106% higher than in West Virginia. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in California are usually around 358% higher than what you’ll find in West Virginia.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 66% higher in California than in West Virginia, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in California costs 49% more than in West Virginia. If you’re relocating to California, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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Unemployment in California is roughly 29% higher than in West Virginia. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
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Sales taxes are 45% higher in California than in West Virginia, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in California are 105% higher than in West Virginia, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in California vs. West Virginia
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in California and West Virginia compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
California |
West Virginia |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
1,782,959 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
83ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
21ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
33″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
17.47 |
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California has a population that’s about 2089% larger than West Virginia.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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In the latest presidential election, California voted Democratic, while West Virginia chose Republican.
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Summer highs average 87°F in California, compared to 83°F in West Virginia.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
California has winter lows around 59°F, compared to 21°F in West Virginia.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 45 inches of rainfall in West Virginia.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than West Virginia.
That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
-
California has a higher crime rate than West Virginia, with crime indexes at 28.43 and 17.47, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of West Virginia vs. California
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in California compared to West Virginia:
| Pros of living in West Virginia |
Pros of living in California |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant outdoor activities |
Pleasant weather |
| 4 distinct seasons of weather |
Abundant recreational options |
| Immense natural beauty |
High quality of life |
| Relaxed small cities and towns |
Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in West Virginia 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 West Virginia to California:
| Cons of living in West Virginia |
Cons of living in California |
| Dismal economy |
High cost of living |
| High rates of crime |
Heavy tax burdens |
| High rates of drug abuse |
Natural disasters |
| Shrinking population |
Terrible traffic |
| Lack of diversity |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your West Virginia to California move
-
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:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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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 has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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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:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding 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,” free of charge. 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:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in California
You’ll have plenty to explore in California! Check out these top spots to visit 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 West Virginia to California?
Do movers transport your car from West Virginia to California?
What are the benefits of moving from West Virginia to California?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave West Virginia for California, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in West Virginia or California?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 52% less and home prices 78% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in West Virginia, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
To live comfortably as a single adult in California, you should aim to make around $73,978.
On average, expect to spend about $5,276 per month, or $10,220 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
West Virginia moving services
Popular West Virginia routes
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For a move from West Virginia to California, budget between $3,749–$8,020 for full-service movers, around
$3,634 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$2,229
for a rental truck.
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