Best Idaho to California Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Idaho to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 909 mile ID to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 290 Idaho 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Idaho 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.

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Best Idaho to California Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3208 Moving Company9.509.63Authorized For HHG
4Valley Custom Moving9.419.69Authorized For HHG
5Boise Local Boys Moving Company9.239.54Authorized For HHG
6Vantage Moving Solutions8.719Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 909 miles from Idaho to California will cost on average $2,554 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom ID to CA move is roughly $6,134. 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 Idaho 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 Idaho to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,718300 ft³$5.73
1 Bedroom$2,554450 ft³$5.68
2 Bedrooms$4,220750 ft³$5.63
3 Bedrooms$6,1341100 ft³$5.58
4 Bedrooms$8,8421600 ft³$5.53
5+ Bedrooms$9,8571800 ft³$5.48
*Please note: These Idaho to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Idaho & 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 ID to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Idaho guide.

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Compare the 6 Best ID 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
208 Moving Company Logo

208 Moving Company

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,148+ data points

6052 Corporal Ln

Boise, ID, 83704

About 208 Moving Company

With over 5,000 satisfied customers and close to 9,000 boxes moved, 208 Moving Company provides you with the confidence you need...

Services

  • Local movers in Boise, ID
  • Long-distance moves throughout the continental United States
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2522386 / 875791

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Valley Custom Moving Logo

Valley Custom Moving

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 1,065+ data points

1404 W Waltman Dr

Meridian, ID, 83642

About Valley Custom Moving

Valley Custom Moving is a full-service moving company headquartered in Treasure Valley, Idaho that provides all types of moves, from large...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3254761 / 1025000

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved700,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Boise Local Boys Moving Company Logo

Boise Local Boys Moving Company

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 488+ data points

Boise, ID, 83706

About Boise Local Boys Moving Company

Founded in 2018 by Brandon Lyda, Boise Local Boys Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving service in Boise,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Packing
  • Furniture Assembly

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3630795 / 1243837

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Vantage Moving Solutions Logo

Vantage Moving Solutions

Superb8.71/10
based on 339+ data points

10673 W Lake Hazel Rd

Boise, ID, 83709

About Vantage Moving Solutions

Vantage Moving Solutions is a locally owned and operated moving company based in Boise, Idaho, serving the entire city and surrounding...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Cross-Country Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3408792 / 1360776

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2022)
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 Idaho to California

This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes associated with relocating from Idaho to California . By examining both perspectives, you gain a balanced understanding of what to anticipate when embarking on this significant move.

CONs
PROs
Idaho iconIdaho
  • Harsh winters
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Less cultural diversity
California iconCalifornia
  • Milder climate
  • Thriving job market
  • Diverse communities
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher cost of living
  • Urban congestion
  • Fast-paced lifestyle
Idaho iconIdaho
  • Low cost of living
  • Open spaces
  • Peaceful lifestyle

When moving from Idaho's tranquil lifestyle to California's energetic atmosphere, the changes can be as varied as visiting Zions Bank in Boise versus the fast pace of San Francisco's financial district. You'll likely appreciate California's diverse neighborhoods such as Little Tokyo or Santa Monica's beaches, providing a varied array of cultural experiences and social interactions. However, brace yourself for the higher living expenses when dining out in popular spots like Napa Valley or Los Angeles's trendy downtown restaurants, compared to the more affordable culinary delights of Idaho Falls. A balance of pros and cons will help you to weigh your personal lifestyle priorities to ensure a smooth transition.

Idaho vs. California Food Guide

Food is a substantial part of local culture and plays a crucial role in defining what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we’ll embark on a journey to understand the gastronomic scene in two diverse states. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Idaho & California , providing insights to help you be better informed about the food scene in your new home.

Idaho
California
Most iconic local food item
Idaho Potatoes
California Roll
Most popular meat dish
Rocky Mountain Elk
Tri-tip barbecue
Most popular street food item
Finger Steaks
Fish Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Lentil Chili
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • State & Lemp
  • Fork
  • Barbacoa Grill
  • The Cheeseboard
  • The French Laundry
  • n/naka
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Idaho offers a unique taste of the northwestern U.S. with its world-renowned potatoes and heartwarming dishes like Rocky Mountain Elk. You can savor these local delights at places like Fork in Boise. On the other hand, California's food scene is as diverse as its geography. From the iconic California Roll to innovative vegan dishes like Avocado Toast, the Golden State is a paradise for food lovers. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles boast an array of vegan restaurants and food trucks, emphasizing the state’s health-conscious culture. Whether you're indulging in Fish Tacos by the beach in San Diego or enjoying a meal at the French Laundry in Napa Valley, California offers an unparalleled culinary adventure.

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Ready to start your move?

Idaho vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a critical factor when considering a move. Knowing how the housing market, lifestyle, and living conditions compare between Idaho and California is essential. This comparison will guide you through costs, architectural styles, and the general lifestyle you can expect in each state.

Idaho
California
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch, Craftsman
Spanish, Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, mountain views
Ocean proximity, eco-friendly features

When diving deeper into these figures, the contrasts between Idaho and California become even more pronounced. In California, the high cost of housing reflects its robust real estate market and scarcity of land, especially in coastal areas. The prevalence of Spanish and modern architecture in California addresses both the cultural heritage and the desire for innovative, eco-friendly living spaces. On the other hand, Idaho's preference for ranch and craftsman-style homes speaks to its appreciation for traditional comfort and the state's natural beauty. Additionally, the significant difference in urban lifestyle ratings indicates California's bustling city life contrasted with Idaho's quieter, more spacious environment. These differences showcase the diverse living experiences offered by each state, shaped by their unique landscapes, cultures, and economies.

Idaho vs. California Weather Considerations

Moving to a new state brings many changes, and the weather is one of the most impactful. Understanding how the climate shifts from Idaho to California is essential for adjusting to your new environment. This comparison will help you grasp the variations in weather conditions between these two diverse states.

Idaho
California
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Wildfires
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good
Varies
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 50°F
95°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

34°F / 16°F
60°F / 45°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

18
22
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

60
0-400


When you are transitioning from Idaho's moderate summers and cold winters to California's warmer climate, there are a few adjustments you'll need to make. California enjoys a higher number of sunny days, which directly impacts its higher average UV index – protect your skin accordingly. Moreover, the variance in air quality across California due to its size and number of cities is something to be mindful of, especially if you have respiratory sensitivities. Lastly, the range in annual snowfall in California is vast, depending on whether you're moving to a coastal city or the Sierra Nevada region, contrasting sharply with Idaho's consistent snow every winter.

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

When considering a move from one state to another, understanding how the cost of living and financial environment in Idaho compares to California is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect in terms of expenses and economic opportunities.

Idaho
California
Avg. Household Income
$72,785
$91,551
Cost of Living Index
91.5
136.4
State Income Tax
6.5
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.63
0.73
Avg. Sales Tax
6.03
8.56
Top 3 Industries
Science, Technology, Agriculture
Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Lower
Higher

Moving from Idaho to California, you'll notice significant differences in living expenses and economic conditions. Despite the higher average household income in California, the state's cost of living index and state income tax rates are substantially higher than Idaho's, which could impact your net income and purchasing power. Although both states host vigorous economies with key industries such as technology and agriculture, California's affluence level stands out, along with higher rates of poverty and homelessness. This contrast illustrates the complexity of California's economic landscape and the importance of preparing financially for the transition.

Idaho vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Idaho & California provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape of both states, offering insights for those contemplating a move from Idaho to California.

Idaho
California
Political Make-up
Conservative Dominance
Liberal Dominance
Local Politics
Republican Majority in Legislature
Democratic Majority in Legislature
Religion
Christianity Predominant
Diverse Religious Landscape

While Idaho is known for its conservative values with a significant Republican majority in its local politics, California, on the other hand, is renowned for its liberal stance, having a Democratic majority. This fundamental difference in political makeup influences local policies, lifestyle, and community initiatives significantly. In terms of religion, Idaho has a predominantly Christian population, which aligns with its conservative leanings. California's religious landscape is more diverse, reflecting its multitude of cultures and beliefs. Understanding these differences can help you adjust and integrate into your new community more effectively.

Education Guide When Moving from Idaho to California

Moving from Idaho to California offers a wealth of opportunities, especially when it comes to education. To make your transition as smooth as possible, it's crucial to compare school options between Idaho and California. This comparison will help you understand what each state can offer for your family's educational needs.

IdahoCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Boise State University
University of Idaho
Idaho State University
University of California (Various Campuses)
California State University (Various Campuses)
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Longfellow Elementary - Boise
Adams Elementary - Boise
Roosevelt Elementary - Boise
Point Vicente Elementary - Rancho Palos Verdes
Pacific Elementary - Manhattan Beach
Westlake Elementary - Santa Cruz

Top 3 Middle Schools

North Junior High - Boise
East Junior High - Boise
Heritage Middle - Meridian
Miller Middle - San Jose
Egan Junior High - Los Altos
Redwood Middle - Saratoga

Top 3 High School Schools

Boise High - Boise
Timberline High - Boise
Capital High - Boise
Henry M. Gunn High - Palo Alto
Torrey Pines High - San Diego
Palo Alto High - Palo Alto

Top 3 private high schools

The Ambrose School - Meridian
Bishop Kelly High School - Boise
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy - Coeur d'Alene
Harvard-Westlake School - Los Angeles
The Bishop's School - La Jolla
Stanford Online High School - Stanford

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Riverstone International School - Boise
North Star Charter - Eagle
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy - Coeur d'Alene
The Harker School - San Jose
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences - Santa Monica
The Webb Schools - Claremont

Top 3 School Districts

Boise School District
West Ada School District
Coeur d'Alene School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
La Cañada Unified School District

While moving from Idaho to California, you'll find that the education landscape is quite diverse with a strong emphasis on quality. California's schools, for instance, often rank highly in national lists, with exceptional programs ranging from the arts to the sciences. A closer look at the University of California campuses and California State University campuses shows a wide variety of options for higher education that cater to nearly every field of study imaginable. Private education in California also stands out with institutions like Harvard-Westlake School and Stanford Online High School providing rigorous academics coupled with expansive extracurricular opportunities. Comparatively, Idaho also offers solid education through its public and private institutions, with a focus on community and smaller class sizes. This comprehensive comparison aims to give you a clearer insight into what you can expect in terms of educational opportunities for your children in these diverse states.

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