Best New York City to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from New York City to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,794 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 80 New York City to Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. 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 New York City to Los Angeles Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | JP Urban Moving | 9.86 | 9.78 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Metropolis Moving | 9.73 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Flex Moving and Storage | 9.70 | 9.74 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
4 | Best California Movers | 9.53 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.47 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from New York City to Los Angeles?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,794 miles from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $4,157 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to Los Angeles move is roughly $10,052. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,786 | 300 ft³ | $9.29 |
1 Bedroom | $4,157 | 450 ft³ | $9.24 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,891 | 750 ft³ | $9.19 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,052 | 1100 ft³ | $9.14 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,541 | 1600 ft³ | $9.09 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,269 | 1800 ft³ | $9.04 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to New York City guide.
Compare the 5 Best New York City to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

JP Urban Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2096754 / 882954 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |

Metropolis Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4277979 / 1662478 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |

Flex Moving and Storage
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3610638 / 1229716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2022) |

Best California Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
Registered Drivers | 12 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |

Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |

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.

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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when the cities are as vibrant and diverse as New York City, NY, and Los Angeles, CA. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between New York City, NY & Los Angeles, CA . By matching up neighborhoods from your current city with their closest counterparts in your future city, we aim to help you find a new home that feels familiar and welcoming.
New York City | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Williamsburg | Silver Lake | Trendy, hipster vibe |
Upper East Side | Beverly Hills | Upscale, luxurious living |
Greenwich Village | West Hollywood | Vibrant nightlife and arts |
SoHo | Abbot Kinney (Venice) | Fashionable, artsy area |
Chelsea | Melrose | Chic shopping and dining |
Financial District | Downtown LA | Business heart with skyscrapers |
Harlem | Leimert Park | Rich cultural heritage |
DUMBO | Arts District | Trendy, industrial vibe |
Midtown | Century City | Bustling business district |
East Village | Los Feliz | Bohemian, eclectic mix |
In the heart of Los Angeles, neighborhoods like Silver Lake mirror the trendy, arts-focused atmosphere of Williamsburg, boasting a mix of indie music venues, organic coffee shops, and vibrant street art. If the upscale and prestigious domain of Manhattan's Upper East Side appeals to you, Beverly Hills in Los Angeles offers a similar flair with its luxury boutiques along Rodeo Drive and grandiose residences. Similarly, for those attracted to the youthful and artistic vibe of SoHo, Abbot Kinney in Venice presents a comparable blend of avant-garde art galleries and fashionable retail spaces. West Hollywood and Greenwich Village share a dynamic LGBTQ+ community, iconic nightlife, and rich cultural scene, making either neighborhood a welcoming place for diverse expressions and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for the cosmopolitan buzz of Financial District or the rich cultural tapestry of Harlem, Los Angeles has neighborhoods that resonate with the same energy and vibrancy, ensuring you'll feel right at home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to Los Angeles
Moving from one coast to another holds both opportunity and challenge. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA , providing a balanced view to help decide if this move is right for you.
- High living costs
- Harsh winters
- Compact living spaces
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Limited green spaces
- Lower living costs
- Sunny weather
- More spacious homes
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Abundant parks
- Less public transportation
- Heavy traffic
- Reliance on cars
- Higher car expenses
- Competitive job market
- Cultural diversity
- Vibrant nightlife
- Public transit access
- Rich history
- Job opportunities
The relocation from New York City to Los Angeles brings a stark contrast in lifestyle and environment. New Yorkers accustomed to the bustling, compact, and fast-paced lifestyle will find Los Angeles's sunny weather and laid-back atmosphere a refreshing change. With Los Angeles's more spacious homes, like those in Silver Lake or Venice Beach, you'll enjoy the luxury of more living space, often with gardens or even a pool. The transition might require adjusting to a car-dependent culture, unlike NYC’s robust public transit system. However, LA compensates with its rich tapestry of culture, from the historic Los Angeles County Museum of Art to iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign and verdant retreats like Griffith Park, offering a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty.
New York City vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
When considering a move, the food on offer is a critical aspect of a city's culture and what your daily life there will be like. Here, we're conducting a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Los Angeles to help you get a sense of the culinary scene in both cities before you relocate.
- Katz's Delicatessen
- Daniel
- Sylvia's
- Pizzeria Mozza
- n/naka
- Guelaguetza
Exploring the food cultures of New York City and Los Angeles can be as much an adventure as your move. In NYC, you'll find that neighborhoods like the Lower East Side are famous for their iconic bagels and lox, a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Katz's Delicatessen, a haven for deli lovers, embodies this tradition. Conversely, Los Angeles' food scene is marked by its innovative street food culture, particularly its tacos, which can be explored in areas like Koreatown for Korean BBQ or the streets of East LA for authentic Mexican cuisine. Los Angeles also leads in health-conscious eating, with an abundance of vegan options and health-centric eateries sprawled across the city. Whether it's vegan ramen in Silver Lake or a wide array of food trucks serving everything from fusion dishes to gourmet classics, LA caters to a diverse palate.
New York City vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between New York City and Los Angeles aims to ease your transition by guiding you to new favorite eateries based on your old haunts. Whether you seek high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, there’s a place for you in your new city.
New York City | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Le Bernardin | Providence | Both offer high-end seafood dining experiences. |
Katz's Delicatessen | Langer's Delicatessen-Restaurant | Famous for pastrami sandwiches, comparable to Katz's. |
Shake Shack | In-N-Out Burger | Both iconic fast-food chains offer unique burger experiences. |
Per Se | n/naka | Both are high-end establishments offering tasting menus with meticulous attention to detail. |
Joe's Pizza | Jon & Vinny's | Both are well-loved for their authentic, high-quality pizzas. |
Di Fara Pizza | Pizzana | Both pizzerias are renowned for their artisanal approach to traditional pizza-making. |
Gramercy Tavern | Osteria Mozza | Both offer an upscale yet comfortable dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. |
Peter Luger Steak House | CUT by Wolfgang Puck | Prime steakhouse experiences that are institutions in their respective cities. |
Russ & Daughters | Wexler's Deli | Both specialize in Jewish deli staples, like bagels and lox. |
Momofuku Noodle Bar | Ramen Tatsunoya | Both offer innovative approaches to traditional noodle dishes. |
When moving from New York City to Los Angeles, finding dining spots that resonate with you can significantly ease the transition. For a luxurious seafood experience akin to Le Bernardin, Providence in Los Angeles stands out with its commitment to quality and innovation. Deli aficionados mourning the absence of Katz’s iconic pastrami on rye will find solace in Langer's Deli, where the pastrami sandwich rivals the best. And for those who crave the unique flavors and artistry of Momofuku Noodle Bar, Ramen Tatsunoya offers a compelling reason to explore Pasadena, with its rich, flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles, making every bite a reminder of New York’s bustling food scene, but with a distinctly Californian flair.

Ready to start your move?
New York City vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when moving. Knowing how New York City and Los Angeles fare in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyles is crucial. This comparison vividly outlines the differences and similarities between these major cities.
When considering a move from New York City to Los Angeles, it's essential to dive deeper into the housing-related nuances. NYC boasts unparalleled walkability and an energetic urban lifestyle, which makes living in the city unique without the need for a car. On the other hand, Los Angeles offers slightly more affordable housing options, with a greater emphasis on outdoor living spaces and pools, reflecting its warmer climate and lifestyle. The architectural styles differ as well, with New York's iconic Art Deco skyscrapers contrasting with Los Angeles's Spanish villas and modern homes. Understanding these details can help you align your living preferences with what each city has to offer.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Santa Monica : You’ll enjoy the abundance of parks, beachfront walkways, and dog-friendly restaurants that make Santa Monica perfect for your pet.
2. West Hollywood : Known for its pet-friendly apartment buildings and off-leash dog parks, you’ll find West Hollywood a welcoming spot for your furry friends.
3. Silver Lake : With its ample green spaces, dog-friendly cafes, and popular dog park, Silver Lake offers a vibrant community for you and your pet.
New York City vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When planning a move from New York City to Los Angeles, understanding how the weather will change is essential. This comparison will help you adjust to your new climate more comfortably.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When transitioning from New York City's variable climate to Los Angeles's milder weather, you'll notice a stark difference in winter temperatures and sunshine. Los Angeles boasts over 280 sunny days a year, significantly more than New York City, offering a brighter, warmer climate. This may influence your outdoor activities and wardrobe choices. Additionally, while both cities face their unique natural disasters, Los Angeles residents must be prepared for wildfires and earthquakes, unlike the blizzards and hurricanes more common in New York City. This difference can also affect considerations for home insurance and emergency preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Los Angeles
When you're moving from one city to another, it’s crucial to grasp how financial aspects like the cost of living and taxes will impact your finances. This comparison between New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA sheds light on these important money and finance considerations, helping you navigate the transition with ease.
While the average household income in New York City is slightly higher than in Los Angeles, the cost of living index in Los Angeles surpasses that of New York City, indicating you might need more to maintain the same lifestyle. The sales tax in Los Angeles is slightly higher, which could impact your day-to-day spending. However, property taxes are somewhat lower in Los Angeles, potentially making homeownership slightly more attainable. The leading industries in each city reflect the unique economic landscapes and job markets, with New York City being a hub for financial services and Los Angeles known for entertainment and tourism. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the financial realities of your new city.
New York City vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
This quick guide offers a snapshot of what to expect when moving from New York City, NY, to Los Angeles, CA, focusing on the politics and religious makeup between New York City & Los Angeles . It's designed to help you get an at-a-glance understanding of the political and religious landscape in your new city.
While both New York City and Los Angeles are known for their liberal political leanings, the way politics play out locally can differ. For instance, you may find that local issues that dominate New York politics, such as public transportation and housing density, shift focus toward environmental issues and homelessness in Los Angeles. Religiously, both cities are home to a diverse population. However, Los Angeles offers a more pronounced diversity in faith, seeing a significant presence of Buddhist and Hindu communities amid its large Catholic base. Whether you’re deeply engaged in your city’s political discourse or invested in finding a religious community that feels like home, both cities offer an expansive landscape to explore.
New York City vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two metropolitan giants. This comparison will help you get a better grasp of what your daily commute and traffic might look like.
While both New York City and Los Angeles bear reputations for heavy traffic, the nature and management of your commute in these cities can vary significantly. In New York City, the robust public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis, allows for a car-free lifestyle, which is a rarity in Los Angeles. However, Los Angeles has been making strides in improving its public transportation network, indicating a potential shift. Still, the sprawl of LA makes owning a car almost a necessity for convenience and access to certain areas. Traffic congestion in LA tends to be more severe, especially during peak hours, making commute times longer on average compared to New York City. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone adjusting to the pace and lifestyle in either city.



Additional Resources
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Popular New York City to California Routes
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