Best Alaska to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Alaska to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,361 mile AK to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 290 Alaska to California moving companies and more than 15,000 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 (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Alaska 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 Alaska to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | The Moving Man | 7.80 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Air Van Moving | 6.80 | 6.98 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Royal Alaskan Movers | 6.45 | 6.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Golden North Van Lines | 6.06 | 5.89 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Alaska guide.
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Alaska to California
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Compare the 6 Best AK to CA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
The Moving Man
550 W 54th Ave
Anchorage, AK, 99518
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 807379 / 359080 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 55,000 (2018) |
Air Van Moving
209 Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 125012 / 118474 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Royal Alaskan Movers
2216 N Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Royal Alaskan Movers
Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2077580 / FF-10566
725677 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 92,150 (2022) |
Golden North Van Lines
620 Old Richardson Hwy
Fairbanks, AK, 99701
About Golden North Van Lines
Since 1976, Golden North Van Lines has been a reliable Alaska moving company, with locations in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Representing United...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Military Moving and Military Storage
- Commercial Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 163057 / 140586 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 33 |
| Registered Drivers | 26 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,140,000 (2020) |
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 Alaska to California
Moving from Alaska to California represents a significant lifestyle change. This guide provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of such a relocation, assisting you in weighing the cons against the pros and vice versa. By understanding both sides, you can make an informed decision about this life-changing move.
Alaska- Harsh winters
- Remote locations
- Limited nightlife
- Costly groceries
- Less job diversity
California- Mild climate
- Urban conveniences
- Vibrant social scene
- Diverse markets
- Varied job markets
California- Urban crowding
- Noisy environments
- Fewer wildlife opportunities
- Less open space
- Social anonymity
Alaska- Natural beauty
- Quiet living
- Wildlife encounters
- Outdoor adventures
- Community closeness
Moving from the vast, snow-capped mountains and serene landscapes of Alaska to the sunny shores and bustling cities of California brings about a world of change. In California, you're likely to experience a vibrant social scene with numerous opportunities for dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. For instance, Los Angeles alone boasts renowned sites like Universal Studios Hollywood, alongside a diverse culinary scene that spans from Grand Central Market in downtown LA to the seaside restaurants of Santa Monica. However, it's also important to note the shift from Alaska's tight-knit communities to California's more anonymous social landscape, where urban crowding can sometimes lead to a sense of disconnection. This transition may require adjustments, but for many, the trade-offs are well worth the new opportunities and lifestyle that California offers.
Alaska vs. California Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and provides insight into what life is like in any given area. To help you adapt more seamlessly to your new surroundings, we have created a comparison of the local cuisine between Alaska & California, two states with distinct food scenes, so you can be better informed about where you are moving to.
| Alaska | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | King Crab | Avocado Toast |
| Most popular meat dish | Reindeer Sausage | Tri-tip |
| Most popular street food item | Halibut Tacos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seaweed Salad | Vegetarian Burrito |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In transitioning from Alaska to California, you'll notice a significant shift in the food landscape. Alaska's cuisine is rich with seafood offerings like King Crab and Halibut Tacos, reflecting its extensive coastline and fishing culture. You can find these specialties at places like Simon & Seafort's in Anchorage. Meanwhile, California offers a diverse palette from the iconic Avocado Toast to a myriad of vegan options, with a strong focus on fresh, local ingredients. The food truck scene is vibrant, especially in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, where you can enjoy everything from Fish Tacos to Gourmet Vegetarian Burritos. Establishments like In-N-Out Burger showcase the fast-casual culture that's unique to California. This culinary journey will be an exciting aspect of your move, with each state offering distinctive flavors that cater to a variety of dietary preferences and lifestyles.
Ready to start your move?
Alaska vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the differences in real estate between Alaska and California is critical for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights key aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle in Alaska and California, aiding in making an informed decision for your move.
| Comparison | Alaska | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Cabin & Rustic | Spanish & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Natural views | Climate, Tech amenities |
When examining the housing aspects from the chart, it's evident that California offers a more urban lifestyle with a higher score in walkability, bikeability, and urbanity compared to Alaska. This reflects California's densely populated cities and extensive infrastructure. However, this urban lifestyle comes at a cost, with California's median home price and monthly rent significantly higher than Alaska's. While Alaska provides a more rustic and cabin-style architecture, embracing its natural landscapes, California presents a variety of architectural designs including the prevalent Spanish and modern styles, particularly noted in areas like Los Angeles and San Diego. This contrast not only signifies the aesthetic differences but also the lifestyle and priorities of residents in each state.
Alaska vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Alaska to California, it's crucial to understand how the weather will compare to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you adjust better to your new environment. Alaska and California have distinct climates, making this information vital for anyone making the move.
Alaska
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Alaska
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Alaska
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Alaska
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Alaska | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Varies widely |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions | Earthquakes, Wildfires, Mudslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Alaska to California brings significant weather changes, including warmer summers and milder winters in California. You'll experience more sunny days, which might be a welcome change or require an adjustment in your daily sunscreen routine due to California's higher UV index. Air quality in California can vary significantly than in Alaska, depending on your location, especially in urban areas where smog is more common. Allergies may also shift, with different allergens prevalent in California. Moreover, while both states experience natural disasters like earthquakes, California also faces seasonal wildfires and mudslides, requiring different preparation and awareness. These weather conditions directly affect lifestyle decisions, from clothing choices to selecting the right home location.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Alaska to California
When making a big move from one state to another, like from Alaska to California, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This includes knowing differences in cost of living , taxation rates , and the overall economic landscape you'll be stepping into.
| Comparison | Alaska | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $88,121 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.6 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | Up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.18 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | None (local rates vary) | 7.25 (local rates may add up to 10.25%) |
| Top 3 Industries | Oil & Gas, Fishing, Tourism | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Comfortable | Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
The switch from Alaska to California brings notable financial contrasts. While the average household income is marginally higher in California, the cost of living and the state income tax rates markedly surpass those in Alaska. It's important to prepare for these changes, especially the stark difference in housing affordability and the tax burden, which can impact your financial planning. The diverse economic landscape in California, powered by technology, agriculture, and entertainment, offers vast employment opportunities, contrasting Alaska's reliance on natural resources such as oil and gas, fishing, and tourism. Understanding these shifts will help you make informed decisions and transition smoothly.
Alaska vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
In planning your move from Alaska to California, it's crucial to understand the differences in the local communities you'll be joining. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Alaska & California , offering a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of these two diverse states.
| Alaska | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed, leans conservative | Leans liberal |
| Local Politics | Community-driven initiatives | State-wide policies and reforms |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse faiths present | Religious diversity, with a significant number of non-religious residents |
In Alaska, the political scene tends to lean conservative but showcases a mix that includes both Democrats and Republicans, especially apparent in local governance where community-driven initiatives are significant. The religious landscape is predominantly Christian, yet it encompasses a broad spectrum of faiths. Conversely, California is known for its liberal leanings, with state-wide policies and reforms reflecting this political ideology. The state is distinguished by its religious diversity and has a substantial population of non-religious residents, contributing to its broad cultural tapestry. This blend of politics and religion shapes the community atmosphere and social policies, thus affecting your day-to-day life in your new state.
Education Guide When Moving from Alaska to California
When planning a move from Alaska to California, understanding the educational landscape is crucial for families. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in educational options, helping you to make informed decisions for your children's schooling. The purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Alaska and California.
| Alaska | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Alaska Anchorage University of Alaska Fairbanks Alaska Pacific UniversityUniversity of California Los Angeles University of Southern California Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Aurora Elementary - Anchorage Northern Lights ABC K-8 School - Anchorage Watershed Charter School - FairbanksPoint Vicente Elementary - Rancho Palos Verdes Millbrook Elementary - San Jose Westlake Elementary - Santa Cruz | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Romig Middle School - Anchorage Goldenview Middle School - Anchorage Mirror Lake Middle School - ChugiakHenry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto Miller Middle School - San Jose Carmel Valley Middle School - San Diego | |
Top 3 High School Schools West High School - Anchorage South Anchorage High School - Anchorage Eagle River High School - Eagle RiverTroy High School - Fullerton Henry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto California Academy of Mathematics and Science - Carson | |
Top 3 private high schools Holy Rosary Academy - Anchorage Lumen Christi High School - Anchorage Grace Christian School - AnchorageHarvard-Westlake School - Studio City Phillips Academy Andover - Andover The Harker School - San Jose | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Pacific Northern Academy - Anchorage Anchorage Waldorf School - Anchorage Birchwood Christian School - ChugiakThe Nueva School - Hillsborough Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences - Santa Monica The Webb Schools - Claremont | |
Top 3 School Districts Anchorage School District Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District Fairbanks North Star Borough School DistrictLos Angeles Unified School District San Diego Unified School District San Francisco Unified School District | |
Moving from Alaska to California introduces you to a diverse and expansive educational landscape. In California, you'll find a broader selection of prestigious universities like Stanford University and the University of Southern California, which attract students globally. For those considering private education, California's options are notable, including The Harker School in San Jose, known for its rigorous academic program. School districts in California, such as Los Angeles Unified and San Diego Unified, cover vast areas offering a wide array of programs reflecting the state's diverse population. Overall, the transition from Alaska to California education presents new opportunities and challenges, making it imperative to research and visit potential schools to find the best fit for your family.
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