Best New York City to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from New York City to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,811 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 59 New York City to Irvine 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 JP Urban Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in New York City compared to Irvine. 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 New York City to Irvine Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1JP Urban Moving9.869.78Authorized For HHG
2Metropolis Moving9.739.62Authorized For HHG
3Flex Moving and Storage9.709.74Authorized For Property, HHG
4Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
5Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from New York City to Irvine?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,811 miles from New York City, NY to Irvine, CA will cost on average $4,172 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to Irvine move is roughly $10,087. 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 and dropoff 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 movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,796300 ft³$9.32
1 Bedroom$4,172450 ft³$9.27
2 Bedrooms$6,915750 ft³$9.22
3 Bedrooms$10,0871100 ft³$9.17
4 Bedrooms$14,5931600 ft³$9.12
5+ Bedrooms$16,3271800 ft³$9.07
*Please note: These New York to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from New York & 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 NY to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to New York City guide.

Compare the 5 Best New York City to Irvine Movers

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

JP Urban Moving Logo

JP Urban Moving

Exceptional9.86/10
based on 3,812+ data points

266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl

Brooklyn, NY, 11238

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...

Services

  • Local NYC Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving, Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2096754 / 882954

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Metropolis Moving Logo

Metropolis Moving

Exceptional9.73/10
based on 2,278+ data points

476 Jefferson St

Brooklyn, NY, 11237

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4277979 / 1662478

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Flex Moving and Storage Logo

Flex Moving and Storage

Exceptional9.70/10
based on 1,196+ data points

276 Greenpoint Ave 287, Suite

Brooklyn, NY, 11222

About Flex Moving and Storage

With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Long distance moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3610638 / 1229716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 2,011+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,022+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

New York City vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting task, especially when moving to a completely new city. To make this transition smoother, we've created a comparison between New York City, NY & Irvine, CA neighborhoods . This guide aims to help you find a neighborhood in Irvine that feels like home, using your familiar New York City neighborhood as a baseline for comparison.

New York CityIrvineHow They're Similar
Upper East SideNorthwoodAffluent, family-friendly vibe
Greenwich VillageWoodbridgeLively, community-centric
SoHoIrvine SpectrumTrendy, shopping and dining hotspot
ChelseaQuail HillArtsy, upscale residential
WilliamsburgGreat Park NeighborhoodsHip, innovative community living
MidtownBusiness DistrictBustling, corporate and residential mix
Financial DistrictIrvine TowersModern, business-oriented
TribecaShady CanyonExclusive, luxurious estates
DUMBOLos OlivosUnique, young professional atmosphere
HarlemUniversity Town CenterCulturally rich, student-friendly

If the bustling, artistic vibe of Chelsea speaks to you, with its galleries and diverse cultural scene, you might find Quail Hill's upscale residential community reminiscent of that essence, albeit in a more suburban setting. The networks of trails and parks, such as the Quail Hill Preserve, offer a unique blend of outdoor activities akin to the High Line or Chelsea Waterside Park. For those drawn to the trendy and fashion-forward essence of SoHo, Irvine Spectrum serves as a thriving commercial hub with a similar array of upscale shops, restaurants like Habana and entertainment options including the Irvine Spectrum Center, bringing together the bustling community atmosphere with a distinctly Californian flair. Transitioning from the historic charm and modern amenities of Williamsburg, the Great Park Neighborhoods, with their innovative designs and community-focused living, provide a fresh, yet familiar, start with attractions such as the Orange Balloon at the Great Park adding a unique touch to the local landscape.

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Things to Do in Irvine

  • Hike at Irvine Regional Park
  • Explore the Orange County Great Park
  • Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
  • Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
  • Study at Irvine Public Libraries
  • Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
  • Relax at Newport Beach

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to Irvine

Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from New York City, NY to Irvine, CA. By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision.

CONs
PROs
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • High cost of living
  • Crowded public spaces
  • Loud noise levels
  • Harsh winters
  • Stressful lifestyle
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Spacious parks
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Mild climate
  • Relaxed atmosphere
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer entertainment options
  • More limited cuisine
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse culture
  • Abundant job opportunities
  • World-class entertainment
  • Global cuisine

Relocating from New York City to Irvine presents a significant lifestyle change. In Irvine, you can explore neighborhood parks like the Orange County Great Park with its balloon rides offering panoramic views. The dining scene, while not as vast as NYC, boasts its gems like Diamond Jamboree, a hub for diverse and international cuisine including the popular 85°C Bakery Cafe. While you may miss the hustle and bustle and the endless entertainment options of NYC, Irvine offers a more laid-back atmosphere where the quality of life often feels higher, with a focus on community and outdoor activities. Popular areas such as Irvine Spectrum Center cater to shopping and leisure needs in an open-air environment that underscores Irvine's commitment to a balanced lifestyle.

New York City vs. Irvine Food Guide

Food is as much a part of a city's identity as its skyline or its landmarks. When relocating, understanding the culinary landscape is key to feeling at home. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Irvine , allowing you to get a taste—literally—of what each location has to offer and to be better informed about the food scene in your new home.

New York City
Irvine
Most iconic local food item
Pizza
Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Pastrami Sandwich
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Vegan Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Spotted Pig
  • Le Bernardin
  • Habana
  • Din Tai Fung
  • HiroNori Craft Ramen
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In New York City, the bustling streets lined with food carts offer iconic hot dogs and the world-renowned pizza slices that have come to symbolize the city's dynamic food scene. Katz's Delicatessen and the Spotted Pig are pilgrimage sites for food lovers, embodying the city's rich culinary heritage. On the other side of the country, Irvine is making its mark with a vibrant food scene characterized by innovative vegan cuisine and an impressive array of food trucks, with Tacos and Korean BBQ taking center stage. Places like Din Tai Fung and HiroNori Craft Ramen showcase Irvine's diverse and evolving tastes. Whether you're craving the comfort of a pastrami sandwich from Katz's in NYC or exploring the fresh flavors of Irvine's food truck scene, both cities offer unique and memorable culinary adventures.

New York City vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison

Embarking on a move from the bustling streets of New York City to the sun-drenched locale of Irvine? A critical aspect of feeling at home in a new city involves discovering the culinary gems that resonate with your palette. This restaurant comparison will help bridge your move from New York City to Irvine, guiding you directly to your new favorite spots for unforgettable dining experiences.

New York CityIrvineWhat You'll Love
Le BernardinHana rePremium sushi experience
Katz's DelicatessenJohn's Philly GrilleAuthentic deli vibes
Shake ShackMoo's Craft BarbecueCasual, quality burgers and more
Di Fara PizzaNapoli PizzeriaClassic, beloved pizza
Eleven Madison ParkTaco RosaHigh-end dining with innovative dishes
Per SeAnQiGourmet cuisine with an edge
Juniors Cheesecake85°C Bakery CafeFamous for desserts and pastries
Momofuku Noodle BarMarugame UdonAuthentic noodle soups and dishes
Joe's PizzaPizzeria OrticaHandcrafted slices and Italian ambience
Dominique Ansel BakeryLayer Cake BakeryArtisan pastries and sweets

Whether it's the transition from the iconic Katz's Delicatessen to John's Philly Grille in Irvine, where the essence of an authentic deli is kept alive, or swapping Joe's Pizza for Pizzeria Ortica, your taste buds won't miss a beat in finding comfort in these new locales. Irvine's Napoli Pizzeria echoes the timeless appeal of New York's Di Fara Pizza, catering to those who cherish classic, wood-fired pizza. On the higher end, the pivot from Eleven Madison Park to Taco Rosa might seem surprising, but it's in the innovation and sophistication of the cuisine where these two distinct establishments find common ground. As you explore Irvine, let these culinary comparisons be your guide to discovering the vibrant flavors that make a place feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

New York City vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your decision when moving. It's crucial to compare how New York City and Irvine stack up against each other regarding housing costs, styles, and lifestyle. This comparison will highlight the contrasts and similarities that could influence your final decision.

New York City
Irvine
Typical Architecture Style
Art Deco, Modern
Spanish Revival, Modern
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to subway, luxury finishes
Community amenities, outdoor spaces

When comparing New York City and Irvine, it's evident that the overall cost of living in terms of housing tends to be higher in Irvine, especially regarding median home prices. However, Irvine offers more affordable renting options. The architecture in both cities reflects a blend of traditional and modern, but Irvine leans heavily towards Spanish Revival styles, emphasizing community and outdoor spaces in its listings. New York City prides itself on its unrivaled walkability and urban lifestyle score, making it a haven for those who thrive in bustling environments. In contrast, Irvine offers a balanced suburban feel with a focus on community amenities, making it ideal for those prioritizing outdoor activities and a less intense urban experience.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

1. Woodbridge : You'll love the numerous dog-friendly parks and walking trails that make it easy to enjoy the outdoors with your pet.

2. University Park : This area offers plenty of green spaces and dog-friendly amenities that cater to an active lifestyle with pets.

3. Quail Hill : With its large open areas and scenic hiking trails, it's perfect for taking your furry friend on a fun adventure.

New York City vs. Irvine Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly change your daily life, especially when it comes to weather. Comparing the climates of New York City, NY and Irvine, CA will help you understand what to expect and prepare for in terms of attire and activities. Here’s a closer look at how the weather in these cities differs to help with your transition.

New York City
Irvine
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Nor'easters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Variable, can be poor
Generally good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 69°F
83°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

38°F / 26°F
67°F / 47°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

50
13
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

25
0


While both New York City and Irvine offer warm summers, winters in Irvine are far milder, eliminating the need for heavy winter coats and boots. The significant increase in sunny days in Irvine provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities year-round. However, it's important to note the higher annual UV index in Irvine, which calls for regular sunscreen application to protect against sunburn and sun damage. Also, if you suffer from seasonal allergies, the types of allergens differ between these two locations, potentially impacting your daily comfort. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for a smooth transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Irvine

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate how the cost of living and economic environment in New York City and Irvine will impact your budget and lifestyle. Whether you're concerned with income, taxes, or the overall cost of living, this guide has you covered.

New York City
Irvine
Avg. Household Income
$67,997
$105,774
Cost of Living Index
185.8
136.4
State Income Tax
Up to 10.9%
Up to 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax
0.88%
0.72%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.875%
7.75%
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Media, Technology
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Affluence
Variable
High
Poverty
High
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Less pronounced

In comparing New York City and Irvine, it's clear that while Irvine boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a higher cost of living index. This reflects the premium quality of life and the affluent status of its residents. The disparity in state income tax rates might initially seem like a disadvantage for California residents, but considering Irvine's lower average property and sales tax rates, the overall tax burden may be more balanced than expected. Additionally, the top industries in each city hint at potential career opportunities for newcomers. New York City's economy thrives on finance, media, and technology, presenting a diverse range of employment prospects. In contrast, Irvine's focus on technology, education, and healthcare suggests a thriving job market in these sectors.

New York City vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison

This quick snapshot offers insight into the comparison of the politics and religious landscape between New York City & Irvine , providing you with a better understanding of the communities you'll be moving from and into. Through this comparison, you'll get a glimpse of the political leanings and religious tendencies in both locales.

New York City
Irvine
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Moderately Conservative
Local Politics
Dominantly Democratic
Mixed, with a slight conservative lean
Religion
Diverse religious communities
Varied, with significant Asian spiritual influences

In both New York City and Irvine, the intricacies of local politics and religion reflect a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and thought. New York City, known for its liberal standpoint, houses a wide variety of religious practices, from Judaism to Islam, reflecting its mosaic of cultures. Irvine, while moderately conservative, showcases an interesting blend of political views, likely influenced by its significant academic and high-tech professional community. The city also presents a vibrant mix of religious beliefs, notably with its significant Asian population influencing local spiritual landscapes. Moving from the bustling and diverse atmosphere of New York City to the more laid-back, yet culturally nuanced Irvine promises an intriguing transition.

New York City vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from New York City, NY to Irvine, CA brings significant changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic experience. This comparison aims to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of traffic and transportation options between New York City & Irvine.

New York City
Irvine
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
41
25
Traffic Congestion
9 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
10 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

In New York City, the average commute time is significantly longer than in Irvine, owing to its dense traffic congestion. However, NYC excels in public transportation availability, making it one of the few cities where living without a car is not only possible but often advantageous. On the flip side, Irvine offers a more relaxed commuting experience with significantly less traffic congestion. Although Irvine's public transit system is growing, it is not as extensive or reliable as New York's, making a car almost necessary for daily commutes and errands. This stark difference in the necessity of owning a car between the two cities is something to carefully consider when planning your move.

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