Best California to New Mexico Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from California to New Mexico and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,011 mile CA to NM move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 297 California to New Mexico moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to New Mexico. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best California to New Mexico Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.9.639.59Authorized For HHG
4Best California Movers9.539.73Authorized For HHG
5JP Moving9.399.63Authorized For Property
6Two Men and a Truck8.628.03Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from California to New Mexico?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,011 miles from California to New Mexico will cost on average $2,641 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to NM move is roughly $6,346. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup in California and dropoff in New Mexico as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve California to New Mexico movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,776300 ft³$5.92
1 Bedroom$2,641450 ft³$5.87
2 Bedrooms$4,364750 ft³$5.82
3 Bedrooms$6,3461100 ft³$5.77
4 Bedrooms$9,1501600 ft³$5.72
5+ Bedrooms$10,2041800 ft³$5.67
*Please note: These California to New Mexico moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & New Mexico. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to NM mover.
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Compare the 6 Best CA to NM Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 7,662+ data points

1450 2nd St ste 225

Santa Monica, CA, 90401

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. Logo

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,498+ data points

Chico, CA, 95973

About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3421940 / 1416634

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 2,643+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
JP Moving Logo

JP Moving

Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,004+ data points

1503 Golf Course Rd SE # D

Rio Rancho, NM, 87124

About JP Moving

JP Moving is a licensed and insured moving company based in Rio Rancho, NM. It provides residential and commercial moving services...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3585744 / 1212778

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Fabulous8.62/10
based on 131+ data points

Mesilla, NM, 88046

About Two Men and a Truck

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is a national moving company that has been serving customers for over 35 years. Based in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/7/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2907535 / 978867

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers18
Total Annual Miles Moved456,215 (2024)
View Full Review
6
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to New Mexico

This guide provides an opportunity to view an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of moving from California to New Mexico . By laying out both the pros and cons, it is easier to see what each state has to offer and make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Overcrowded
  • Wildfires
New Mexico iconNew Mexico
  • Affordable housing
  • Less traffic
  • Spacious landscapes
  • Fewer natural disasters
New Mexico iconNew Mexico
  • Less coastal beauty
  • Lesser job opportunities
  • Slower-paced lifestyle
  • Fewer local wineries
California iconCalifornia
  • Varied landscapes
  • Diverse job market
  • Innovative culture
  • Award-winning wineries

When moving from vibrant California to charming New Mexico, you will notice a significant change in lifestyle and environment. In cities like Santa Fe and Albuquerque, you can enjoy less traffic and a more relaxed pace, allowing you to explore local favorites such as the historic Old Town Albuquerque or the scenic Taos Pueblo without the stress of congestion. While California offers varied job opportunities, New Mexico opens doors to affordable neighborhoods with beautiful landscapes, featuring the stunning vistas of White Sands National Park. You may miss the coastal beauty and the bustling job market of California, but the cultural richness and the welcoming community of New Mexico can make for a rewarding transition.

California vs. New Mexico Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & New Mexico, delving into the vibrant food scenes that significantly contribute to the local culture and living experience in these states. This will help you better understand what culinary delights await as you consider your move.

California
New Mexico
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
New Mexico Green Chile
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip steak
Carne Adovada
Most popular street food item
Fish Tacos
Breakfast Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Acai Bowl
Blue Corn Blueberry Pancakes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The French Laundry
  • Spago
  • In-N-Out Burger
  • Sadie's of New Mexico
  • El Modelo Mexican Foods
  • Frontier Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In California, the diverse culinary landscape spans from the innovative kitchens of the Bay Area to the health-focused cafes of Los Angeles, including the iconic In-N-Out Burger that’s a must-try. Meanwhile, New Mexico's cuisine is deeply rooted in both Native American and Hispanic influences, offering unique flavors like that of the New Mexico Green Chile which can be enjoyed in traditional dishes at local favorites such as Sadie's of New Mexico. Notably, both states offer an array of vegan and health-conscious options, but California, with its higher health and foodie scene scores, might offer a bit more variety, particularly in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.

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California vs. New Mexico Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role in the decision-making process when moving. Understanding how California's and New Mexico's real estate markets compare can help guide your move. This comparison aims to shed light on the housing landscape, including cost, architecture, and lifestyle features between these two diverse states.

California
New Mexico
Typical Architecture Style
Modern, Spanish, Craftsman
Pueblo, Territorial, Spanish
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to tech hubs, luxury amenities, ocean views
Scenic views, large plots, cultural richness

When comparing the real estate landscape between California and New Mexico, the contrasts are stark. California's housing market is characterized by its high cost of living, with median home prices far exceeding those in New Mexico. This difference is also reflected in the median monthly rent. The typical architecture in California often includes Modern and Spanish styles, contrasting with New Mexico's Pueblo and Territorial influences. Despite a lower walkability score, New Mexico offers scenic views and cultural richness mentioned often in real estate listings, attracting those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, California's higher urban lifestyle score caters to those seeking proximity to tech hubs and luxury amenities, including ocean views.

California vs. New Mexico Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires an understanding of many variables, especially when considering weather conditions. This comparison between California and New Mexico's weather patterns is crucial for adapting to your new environment smoothly.

California
New Mexico
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Wildfires, Flash Floods
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 60°F
92°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60°F / 45°F
49°F / 23°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

22
14
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

7
28


Considering a move between California and New Mexico, you'll find weather differences that could affect your lifestyle significantly. New Mexico offers more sunny days and a higher UV index, essential for planning your daily sun protection. Interestingly, despite higher average summer temperatures, New Mexico generally experiences lower humidity levels than California, contributing to more comfortable conditions despite the heat. Besides, those moving from California might experience a dramatic shift during the winter, with New Mexico experiencing considerably colder lows and more snowfall, which could affect everything from daily wardrobe choices to driving conditions.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to New Mexico

When deciding to move from one state to another, a key factor to consider is how your finances will be impacted. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect when moving from California to New Mexico. Understanding the differences in aspects such as income, taxes, and overall cost of living between California and New Mexico can help you make an informed decision.

California
New Mexico
Avg. Household Income
$91,551
$59,726
Cost of Living Index
136.4
96.45
State Income Tax
1 - 13.3
1.7 - 5.9
Avg. Property Tax
0.77
0.78
Avg. Sales Tax
8.82
7.82
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment
Energy, Aerospace, Film
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Higher
Homelessness
High
Moderate

In moving from California to New Mexico, you'll find a stark contrast in the cost of living, with New Mexico being significantly more affordable. This is reflected not only in the general cost of living index but also in the more favorable state income tax rates. However, this comes with a trade-off in average household incomes, which are notably lower in New Mexico. Understanding the economic landscape, including key industries, can also help you gauge job opportunities and financial growth prospects in New Mexico compared to the high-earning and affluent backdrop of California. Keep in mind the socioeconomic factors such as poverty and homelessness rates, which differ between the two states and can impact community services and quality of life.

California vs. New Mexico Political & Religious Comparison

When considering moving from California to New Mexico, it's valuable to know not just about the landscape and weather but also about the people you'll be living among. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between California & New Mexico , helping you understand the community vibe and cultural nuances that await.

California
New Mexico
Political Make-up
Liberal-leaning
Moderately liberal
Local Politics
Democratic stronghold in urban areas
Blend of Democrat and Republican, with a notable independent streak
Religion
More secular, diverse religions
Higher Catholic presence

While both California and New Mexico lean liberal on the political spectrum, you'll find that New Mexico has a more pronounced bipartisan mix, especially at the local level, where independent and moderate views frequently emerge. This diverse political environment encourages engagement and collaboration across party lines. Religious composition also differs notably, with New Mexico having a stronger Catholic presence, reflected not only in worship but in community celebrations and local traditions. Embracing these differences can enrich your experience, allowing you to engage with a variety of perspectives and cultural backgrounds.

Education Guide When Moving from California to New Mexico

When considering a move from California to New Mexico, it’s critical to understand how educational opportunities compare. This guide will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and New Mexico , so you can make informed decisions for your family's educational needs.

CaliforniaNew Mexico

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

UCLA
UC Berkeley
Stanford
University of New Mexico
New Mexico State University
New Mexico Tech

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Orion Academy (Menlo Park)
Windsor Academy (Los Angeles)
Montecito Union (Santa Barbara)
Double Eagle Elementary (Albuquerque)
Wood Gormley Elementary (Santa Fe)
Georgia O’Keeffe Elementary (Albuquerque)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley)
Redwood Middle (Saratoga)
Hunters Creek Middle (San Francisco)
Desert Ridge Middle (Albuquerque)
Sidney Gutierrez Middle (Roswell)
Eisenhower Middle (Albuquerque)

Top 3 High Schools

California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)
Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto)
Whitney High (Cerritos)
Albuquerque Institute of Math & Science
La Cueva High (Albuquerque)
Los Alamos High (Los Alamos)

Top 3 private high schools

The Thacher School (Ojai)
Harvard-Westlake (Los Angeles)
Webb Schools (Claremont)
Albuquerque Academy
Bosque School (Albuquerque)
Santa Fe Prep (Santa Fe)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Harker School (San Jose)
Polytechnic School (Pasadena)
Crystal Springs Uplands School (Hillsborough)
Sandia Preparatory School (Albuquerque)
Rio Grande School (Santa Fe)
Menaul School (Albuquerque)

Top 3 School Districts

San Francisco Unified
Palo Alto Unified
Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District
Los Alamos Public Schools
Albuquerque Public Schools
Rio Rancho Public Schools

California offers some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country, including top-tier universities like UCLA and Stanford, favorable for residents looking into higher education for their seniors. In the contrast, New Mexico's educational landscape shines through institutions such as the University of New Mexico and New Mexico Tech, offering strong local options for higher education. When it comes to K-12 education, both states boast highly rated public and private schools. California's Harker School and Polytechnic School are matched by New Mexico's Sandia Preparatory School and Rio Grande School in providing excellent K-12 education. Additionally, California's school districts such as Palo Alto Unified are known for their high standards, similar to the prestige of Los Alamos Public Schools in New Mexico. Each state offers unique educational advantages, tailored to meet various academic needs and preferences.

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