Best Delaware to California Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Delaware to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,891 mile DE to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 288 Delaware to California 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 $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Delaware compared to California. 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.

Best Delaware to California Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Delaware to California Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3SSW Moving & Junk Removal9.098.84Authorized For Property, HHG
4Keep It - Moving & Labor8.999.23Authorized For HHG
5Movendi Moving8.769.09Authorized For HHG
6G & G Moving8.238.53Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Delaware to California?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,891 miles from Delaware to California will cost on average $4,240 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom DE to CA move is roughly $10,254. 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 Delaware and dropoff in California 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 Delaware to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,841300 ft³$9.47
1 Bedroom$4,240450 ft³$9.42
2 Bedrooms$7,029750 ft³$9.37
3 Bedrooms$10,2541100 ft³$9.32
4 Bedrooms$14,8351600 ft³$9.27
5+ Bedrooms$16,5991800 ft³$9.22
*Please note: These Delaware to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Delaware & California. 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 DE to CA mover.
Delaware iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Delaware guide.

Popular moving destinations background image

Popular Delaware to California Moving Destinations

Make an easier move when you book with the best.

See All Routes >

Trusted moving guides helping you move from Delaware to California

Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.

Compare the 6 Best DE to CA 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
SSW Moving & Junk Removal Logo

SSW Moving & Junk Removal

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 160+ data points

Bowers, DE, 19963

About SSW Moving & Junk Removal

SSW Moving & Junk Removal is an experienced, independent moving company based in Newark, DE. The company emphasizes being owner-operated and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4054816 / 1537291

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
3
K

Keep It - Moving & Labor

Superb8.99/10
based on 858+ data points

11361 Willow Grove Rd

Camden, DE, 19934

About Keep It - Moving & Labor

Keep It - Moving & Labor is a top-rated Camden moving company that offers residential and commercial moves throughout the state....

Services

  • Full Service Moves in Camden
  • Air-Conditioned Storage
  • Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3361659 / 1110116

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
M

Movendi Moving

Superb8.76/10
based on 193+ data points

16812 W Randor Dr

Milton, DE, 19968

About Movendi Moving

Movendi Moving is a moving company based in Milton, Delaware, providing an ultimate moving experience with utmost class and skill. Their...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3181992 / 1057493

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved37,500 (2023)
View Full Review
5
G

G & G Moving

Very Good8.23/10
based on 974+ data points

Bear, DE, 19701

About G & G Moving

G & G Moving is a full-service moving company that services all of Delaware and can relocate homes and businesses to...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2413712 / 830814

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
6
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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 Delaware to California

Relocating from Delaware to California involves weighing the upsides and downsides of each state. This comparison sheds light on an honest reflection of the move's attributes, providing a clear understanding of Delaware to California transition dynamics .

CONs
PROs
Delaware iconDelaware
  • Higher job competition
  • Limited cultural diversity
  • Smaller cities
  • Fewer entertainment options
California iconCalifornia
  • Greater job opportunities
  • Cultural melting pot
  • Vibrant urban life
  • Endless entertainment
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher living expenses
  • Risk of wildfires
  • Traffic congestion
  • Hectic lifestyle
Delaware iconDelaware
  • Lower cost of living
  • Seasonal weather
  • Small-town charm
  • Quiet neighborhoods

Moving to California presents an array of exciting possibilities, from the job-rich environments of Silicon Valley to the artistic allure of Los Angeles. Your weekends could be spent exploring the picturesque hiking trails in Griffith Park or enjoying the nightlife in San Francisco’s Mission District. While California's vibrant, bustling cities like San Diego and San Francisco offer diverse culinary delights and cultural experiences, they also come with a higher cost of living and traffic jams that require getting used to. Wilmington, Delaware's quieter life may seem more affordable, but the dynamic lifestyle and myriad opportunities in cities like Los Angeles make the move a worthwhile adventure.

Delaware vs. California Food Guide

Understanding the flavors and tastes that define a place is crucial when relocating. With that in mind, we embark on a journey through the culinary landscapes of two distinctly unique states. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Delaware & California , aiming to provide insights into the food scene you'll be immersing yourself in. Let’s dig in to make your transition as flavorful as possible.

Delaware
California
Most iconic local food item
Scrapple
Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dish
Chicken Bog
Tri-tip
Most popular street food item
Italian Ice
Fish Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan BBQ
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Harry's Savoy Grill
  • Deer Park Tavern
  • Bluecoast Seafood Grill
  • The Cheesecake Factory
  • In-N-Out Burger
  • The French Laundry
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

As you make your way from Delaware to California, you'll quickly notice a shift in the food scene that mirrors the vibrant, diverse cultures present in the Golden State. Cities like San Francisco are famed for their sourdough bread, a must-try for any new resident. Los Angeles, known for its health-conscious lifestyle, offers an abundance of plant-based options, making it a haven for vegans with spots like Cafe Gratitude. Food trucks are a staple across California, offering everything from gourmet bites to international cuisines, allowing you to explore the world through your palate. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of vibrant neighborhoods or dining in iconic eateries like The French Laundry in Napa Valley, California promises a dynamic culinary adventure that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Delaware vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future home is crucial. This comparison will highlight Delaware versus California in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability , and more, offering a comprehensive overview of what to expect. By understanding these distinctions, you can make an informed decision about your relocation.

Delaware
California
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Ranch
Modern, Spanish Revival
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Family-friendly, Proximity to beaches
Eco-friendly features, Proximity to tech hubs

Moving from Delaware to California, you'll find significant differences in housing costs and lifestyles. California's median home price is well above Delaware's, as is the rent. Yet, this higher cost of living in California often comes with closer proximity to cutting-edge tech jobs and a more pronounced urban lifestyle, especially in cities like San Jose or San Francisco. On the architecture front, Delaware's homes tend towards the Colonial or Ranch styles, while California offers a range from Modern to Spanish Revival, reflecting its diverse culture and historical influences. Despite these differences, both states provide unique and desirable qualities depending on your personal and professional needs.

Delaware vs. California Weather Considerations

Moving from Delaware to California involves adjusting to different weather patterns. Understanding this comparison will help you adapt more easily to what you can expect weather-wise in your new home.

Delaware
California
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Nor'easters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Varies significantly
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F/66°F
85°F/60°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

44°F/28°F
68°F/48°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

45"
Varies by region: 22”-45”
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

20.2"
Varies significantly


Between Delaware and California, the most marked differences are seen in the number of sunshine days and winter temperatures. California’s milder winters and generous sunny days might be a delightful change if you're moving from Delaware. However, keep in mind, California's weather can vary greatly depending on which part of the state you settle in. Coastal areas enjoy moderate temperatures year-round, whereas inland areas experience a greater range of temperatures. Also noteworthy is California's higher average UV index; you'll want to make sun protection a regular part of your routine. For those sensitive to allergies, the types of seasonal allergies differ between states, potentially impacting your daily comfort.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Delaware to California, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities in Delaware compare with those in California. This knowledge will help you prepare financially and set realistic expectations for your new life.

Delaware
California
Avg. Household Income
$82,174
$91,551
Cost of Living Index
102.45
136.4
State Income Tax
0-6.6
1-13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.56
0.73
Avg. Sales Tax
0
7.25
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Chemicals, Healthcare
Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Lower
Higher

Moving from Delaware to California, you'll encounter significant differences in living costs, particularly noted in the Cost of Living Index. California's higher average household income is offset by its steep living expenses and taxes, suggesting a more challenging financial environment for newcomers. While Delaware offers a more moderate living cost with no sales tax and lower property taxes, California, despite its higher tax rates, is home to lucrative industries like technology and entertainment. This economic landscape offers a broad spectrum of opportunities but also presents challenges such as higher rates of poverty and homelessness compared to Delaware.

Delaware vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from Delaware to California, it's intriguing to take a quick snapshot of the differences in the community you'll be joining. This comparison provides an at-a-glance view of the political and religious makeup of residents in Delaware & California, helping you understand the local norms and values.

Delaware
California
Political Make-up
Democratic-leaning
Strongly Democratic-leaning
Local Politics
Moderate with a balance of urban and rural perspectives
Progressive, with a focus on environmental and social policies
Religion
Christianity predominates, diverse religious communities
Largely secular, wide variety of religions and beliefs

The political and religious landscapes in Delaware and California present clear contrasts that you'll notice as you transition. While both are Democratic-leaning, California's politics are notably more progressive, particularly in terms of environmental and social issues. This is reflected in its policies and the general public opinion. Religion plays a different role in each state too. In Delaware, Christianity is more prevalent, but the state is also home to a mosaic of faiths. California, while housing a wide variety of religious beliefs, is known for a more secular approach to life. These distinctions create diverse cultural atmospheres in each state, shaping the local communities and how they interact with newcomers.

Education Guide When Moving from Delaware to California

Moving from Delaware to California brings a wealth of new opportunities, especially in the realm of education. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared various educational aspects between the two states. The purpose of this chart is to better understand the comparisons between school options in Delaware and California.

DelawareCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Delaware
Newark
Delaware State University
Dover
Wilmington University
New Castle
University of California
Los Angeles
University of California
Berkeley
Stanford University
Stanford

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Lancashire Elementary School
Wilmington
Star Hill Elementary School
Dover
North Star Elementary School
Hockessin
Point Vicente Elementary School
Rancho Palos Verdes
Hawes Elementary School
Redwood City
Mount Woodson Elementary School
Ramona

Top 3 Middle Schools

H.B. Du Pont Middle School
Hockessin
Alfred G. Waters Middle School
Middletown
Conrad Schools of Science
Wilmington
Carmel Valley Middle School
San Diego
Miller Creek Middle School
San Rafael
Los Cerros Middle School
Danville

Top 3 High School Schools

Charter School of Wilmington
Wilmington
Conrad Schools of Science
Wilmington
Cab Calloway School of the Arts
Wilmington
Henry M. Gunn High School
Palo Alto
Torrance High School
Torrance
California Academy of Mathematics and Science
Carson

Top 3 private high schools

Tower Hill School
Wilmington
Wilmington Friends School
Wilmington
St. Andrew's School
Middletown
Harvard-Westlake School
Los Angeles
The Harker School
San Jose
Phillips Academy
Andover

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Tatnall School
Wilmington
Sanford School
Hockessin
Wilmington Friends School
Wilmington
The Nueva School
Hillsborough
Crossroads School
Santa Monica
The Webb Schools
Claremont

Top 3 School Districts

Appoquinimink School District
Caesar Rodney School District
Red Clay Consolidated School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
La Cañada Unified School District

Moving to California, you'll find a vibrant educational landscape with options ranging from prestigious universities like Stanford University to innovative K-12 schools such as The Nueva School in Hillsborough. This state's focus on diverse and comprehensive education is evident through its highly-rated institutions across all levels. In Delaware, schools like the Charter School of Wilmington highlight the state's commitment to quality education, with strong programs in science and the arts. Whether you're looking for top-notch public schools, elite private institutions, or cutting-edge research universities, both states offer distinctive educational environments that cater to a wide range of academic interests and talents.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Delaware to California Movers Featured Image