Best Movers from West Virginia to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: The average cost to move from West Virginia to California ranges from $1,843 to $9,807 and takes seven–21 days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to West Virginia guide.
Our track record
The best West Virginia to California full-service movers
Planning a move from West Virginia 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 West Virginia to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in West Virginia.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in West Virginia
Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in West Virginia based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Central Van Lines: 4 out of 5 stars
- Abate Moving Services LLC: 3.96 out of 5 stars
- Dunbar Transfer: 3.9 out of 5 stars
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Efficient service
- Helpful movers
- Damage to home
- Misplaced or lost items
- Higher-than-expected costs
Company Info
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 076235
Central Van & Storage, Inc., serving Charleston, WV, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 1998. Known for their comprehensive services, they stand out by offering specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques, along with office moving services. Despite mixed online reviews—ranging from a low average on Yelp to a high 4.6 rating on Google—they maintain a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, indicating strong reliability and customer service. Unlike many competitors, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and do not require a deposit, making them a strong contender for anyone needing dependable, flexible moving services in the Charleston area.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Affordable rates
- Good communication
- Misplaced or lost items
- Damage to items
- Unreliable timing
Company Info
Years in Business: 35
DOT #: 587135
Alternate Names: Future Enterprises Corporation
Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems has been a reliable choice for local residential moves in Huntington, WV since 1990. Unlike some nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, accept credit cards, and require no deposit. While consumer reviews are mixed, with a 3.9 average rating on Google and an A+ BBB rating, they remain a trusted name in the community. Their long-standing presence and extensive service offerings make them a solid option for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
Years in Business: 28
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
Abate Moving Services LLC specializes in local residential moving in and around Morgantown, WV, standing out among nearby moving companies with their comprehensive offerings. In addition to local moves, they provide packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, and can expertly handle moving delicate items such as pianos, pool tables, art, and antiques. With a stellar online reputation, they boast an average rating of 4.8 from 110 reviews on Google, and a solid 4.2 average from five Yelp reviews, reflecting high customer satisfaction. Notably, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making them a convenient and reliable choice for those seeking quality moving services.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best West Virginia 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 West Virginia and delivering it to your new place in California.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best West Virginia to California moving truck rentals
If you're looking to cut costs on your move from West Virginia to California, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best West Virginia to California labor-only movers
If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.
Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from West Virginia to California:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to CA move
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. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,617 - $6,699 | $1,579 - $4,298 | $1,826 - $3,534 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $5,004 - $9,807 | $3,039 - $5,836 | $1,843 - $4,206 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $9,318 - $15,029 | $3,943 - $8,431 | $2,497 - $5,112 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,545 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 West Virginia to California
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from West Virginia to California will cost between $1,617 and $6,699. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from WV to CA will range from $5,004 to $9,807, and a large move from West Virginia to California will cost from $9,318 to $15,029.
Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to California
If you’re relocating from West Virginia to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,579 and $4,298 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $3,039 up to $5,836. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,943 and $8,431. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from West Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from West Virginia 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, expect to pay between $1,826 and $3,534. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,843 to $4,206. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,497 and $5,112.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WV to CA
There are many factors that influence West Virginia moving costs. The cost to move from West Virginia to California will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in West Virginia is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- 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
When moving from West Virginia to California, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: West Virginia vs. California
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in West Virginia and California. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
| West Virginia | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $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% |
- Rent in California is about 106% higher than in West Virginia. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
- Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in California are typically about 358% higher than in West Virginia.
- Great news—you’re likely to make about 66% more in California compared to West Virginia. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be spending 49% more than you did in West Virginia. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is about 29% higher than in West Virginia. 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 45% higher in California than in West Virginia, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- Income taxes in California are 105% higher than in West Virginia, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in California vs. West Virginia
Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in California versus West Virginia across some essential lifestyle factors:
| 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 |
- If you’re moving from West Virginia to California, you’ll find California has about 2,089% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
- In the most recent presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while West Virginia went with Republican.
- Summer temperatures usually hit around 87ºF in California and 83ºF in West Virginia. With these temperatures being similar, you’ll likely have an easy time getting used to the new climate. Just don’t forget to think about humidity, typical weather, and energy costs to get the full picture of summer in your new place.
- Winter temperatures in California hover around 59ºF, while West Virginia can dip to a chilly 21ºF. By making the move to California, you’ll enjoy gentler winters, making life a bit easier and often more affordable. Plus, with less snow and cold, you’ll have more chances to get outdoors. If you’re ready to swap snow shovels for sunnier days, this is the perfect change for you.
- In California, you’ll see about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 45 inches you’re used to in West Virginia. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than the 33 inches you’d see in West Virginia. That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling, less upkeep, and fewer weather headaches, making life in the colder months a whole lot easier.
- California has a higher crime rate than West Virginia, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 17.47. While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it's smart to research neighborhoods, stay update
Comparing the pros of West Virginia vs. California
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in California and 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 can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from West Virginia to California, keep these tips in mind.
| 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
- 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 ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new 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 has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- 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: 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 so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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: 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
