Best New York to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from New York to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,933 mile NY to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 462 New York 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 JP Urban Moving), 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 New York 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 New York to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | 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 | Solidarity Movers | 9.69 | 9.76 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 6 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from New York to California?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,933 miles from New York to California will cost on average $4,275 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom NY to CA move is roughly $10,341. 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 New York 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 New York to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,865 | 300 ft³ | $9.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,275 | 450 ft³ | $9.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,088 | 750 ft³ | $9.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,341 | 1100 ft³ | $9.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,962 | 1600 ft³ | $9.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,742 | 1800 ft³ | $9.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to New York guide.
Popular New York to California Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from New York to California
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular New York to California Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best NY to CA 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) |
Solidarity Movers
251 Himrod St
Brooklyn, NY, 11237
About Solidarity Movers
New York is a big city, and residents need a reliable company to help them move. That’s where Solidarity Movers’ five-star...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3519325 / 1167577 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2023) |
OCD Moving Services LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from New York to California
When considering a move from one state to another, it's essential to weigh the positives and negatives. This honest comparison provides a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of relocating from New York to California , highlighting the unique aspects of each state to help you make an informed decision.
New York- Harsh winters
- Expensive housing
- Heavy traffic
California- Mild climate
- Varied real estate options
- Relaxed lifestyle
California- Higher living costs
- Wildfire risk
- Car-dependent areas
New York- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse culture
- Efficient public transport
New York's vibrant nightlife, characterized by venues like Times Square or Broadway, is unmatched, yet California offers stunning coastal cities like San Diego with breathtaking beaches and relaxed ambiance. While New York boasts efficient public transport, California’s urban sprawl, such as Los Angeles, may make commuting more challenging due to traffic and a reliance on cars. However, California's climate, with areas like San Francisco and Santa Barbara, offers a refreshing change from New York's harsh winters. Though both states carry high living costs, California presents diverse real estate options, from ocean-view homes to mountainous retreats.
New York vs. California Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between New York & California, highlighting the importance of food in understanding a place's culture. As you plan your move, getting to know the local food scene can make the transition smoother and more delightful.
- Katz's Delicatessen
- Per Se
- Di Fara Pizza
- In-N-Out Burger
- Chez Panisse
- The French Laundry
In New York, the bagel is more than a breakfast item; it's an institution, especially in places like Manhattan's Lower East Side. California, on the other hand, is the home of the health-conscious, with avocado toast becoming a symbol of the state's cuisine. For meat lovers, pastrami on rye in New York draws crowds to iconic spots like Katz's Delicatessen, while California's tri-tip barbecue has roots in the Central Coast and Santa Maria Valley. Street food tells a similar story of diversity: from the all-American hot dog stands scattered throughout New York City to the fresh fish tacos found along California's coastlines. Whether you're moving for the vibrant food truck scenes or the abundance of vegan options, each state offers a unique taste that caters to every palate.
Ready to start your move?
New York vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Knowing how New York and California stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly impact your decision. This comparison is designed to elucidate these differences and help ease your transition.
When considering a move from New York to California, it’s important to look beyond just the numbers. For instance, while the median home prices and monthly rents are somewhat comparable, the lifestyle and environment you are looking for could heavily influence your decision. New York offers a highly walkable environment with easy access to public transit and a dense urban environment, making it ideal for those who thrive in the hustle and bustle. In contrast, California provides a more relaxed ambiance with its emphasis on outdoor living spaces and eco-friendly features. It's also worth noting the unique architectural styles in each state that cater to different tastes, with New York known for its pre-war and modern edifices, whereas California offers a blend of Spanish influence and modern designs. Understanding these nuances will help you find a home that not only fits your budget but also your lifestyle.
New York vs. California Weather Considerations
When relocating, grasping the new climate is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison sheds light on key weather differences to anticipate when moving from New York to California. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for the lifestyle changes ahead.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both states boast ample sunshine, moving from New York to California, you'll notice more sunny days and milder winters. However, California's vast landscape means weather can vary significantly—coastal areas experience cool, foggy summers whereas inland areas can reach scorching summer temperatures. Another key difference is the natural disaster risk; New York faces hurricanes and blizzards, while California contends with earthquakes and wildfires. Preparing for these risks and understanding local weather patterns is essential for anyone making this cross-country move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York to California
Moving from one location to another demands a thoughtful consideration of your finances. It's critical to compare how your expenses might shift, especially when moving between significant economic landscapes. This chart aims to highlight the financial implications of relocating from New York to California, covering income, taxes, and the cost of living.
When comparing the financial landscapes of New York and California, it becomes apparent that while both states offer prosperous opportunities, they also come with their unique financial burdens. For instance, although the average household income is higher in California, the cost of living index significantly surpasses that of New York, primarily due to housing costs. Moreover, the higher range of state income tax in California can impact your take-home pay, depending on your income bracket. Nonetheless, the golden state's vibrant technology, agriculture, and entertainment sectors present unique career opportunities not as prevalent in New York. These factors are crucial to consider as you plan your move.
New York vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from New York to California, it's helpful to have a quick snapshot of what to expect regarding the communities you'll be joining. This brief comparison will provide you an at-a-glance view of the political makeup between New York & California, as well as insights into the local politics and religious landscape. Understanding these aspects can help you integrate more smoothly into your new environment.
While both New York and California are known for their liberal, Democratic-leaning populations, nuances in local politics and religious diversity are noteworthy. In New York, while urban centers like New York City heavily lean Democratic, some rural areas present a more mixed political landscape. California, on the other hand, shows a stronger Democratic presence across not just urban but many suburban regions as well. Religion in both states is diverse, with New York home to a robust Christian community, visible in institutions like The Brick Church. California's religious landscape is similarly diverse but also boasts a significant non-religious community, reflected in spaces like San Francisco's Grace Cathedral. Understanding these differences will help you appreciate the rich cultural tapestry that defines both states.
Education Guide When Moving from New York to California
Moving from New York to California involves numerous considerations, one of the most crucial being education. Through comparing schools and educational options, our goal is to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in these two influential states.
| New York | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) New York University Columbia University Cornell UniversityUniversity of California (Berkeley) Stanford University University of California (Los Angeles) | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools PS 77 Lower Lab School (New York City) PS 334 The Anderson School (New York City) Success Academy Charter School (Bronx)Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes) Pacific Elementary School (Manhattan Beach) Old Adobe Elementary Charter School (Petaluma) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools The Anderson School (New York City) NYC Lab Middle School (New York City) The Spence School (New York City)William Faria Elementary School (Cupertino) Harker School (San Jose) The Nueva School (Hillsborough) | |
Top 3 High Schools Stuyvesant High School (New York City) Bronx High School of Science (Bronx) Brooklyn Technical High School (Brooklyn)Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto) Torrey Pines High School (San Diego) Palo Alto High School (Palo Alto) | |
Top 3 private high schools Horace Mann School (Bronx) The Chapin School (New York City) Collegiate School (New York City)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The Thacher School (Ojai) Polytechnic School (Pasadena) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Trinity School (New York City) Horace Mann School (Bronx) The Collegiate School (New York City)The Harker School (San Jose) Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) Marlborough School (Los Angeles) | |
Top 3 School Districts Great Neck School District Jericho Union Free School District Syosset Central School DistrictPalo Alto Unified School District Arcadia Unified School District San Marino Unified School District | |
While the table provides a quick glance at educational options in New York and California, a deeper dive reveals interesting nuances. For instance, New York City is renowned for its specialized public high schools like Stuyvesant and Bronx Science, which require a specialized high school admissions test. Meanwhile, California boasts prestigious private institutions such as The Harker School and Harvard-Westlake, offering rigorous academic programs from kindergarten through 12th grade. School districts in both states are highly rated, but the specific strengths vary, with New York districts often emphasizing a broad liberal arts education, while districts in California, like Palo Alto, pride themselves on STEM education likely influenced by the proximity to Silicon Valley. Choosing between these educational landscapes depends on your child's needs and your family's priorities, making this comparison a valuable tool in your relocation decision-making process.
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