Best Arkansas to California Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Arkansas to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,808 mile AR to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 309 Arkansas 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 (approximately $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Arkansas 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 Arkansas to California Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
3B2 Moving9.439.57Authorized For HHGContact
4Elite Moving8.868.67Authorized For HHGContact
5Ron's Delivery & Moving8.808.8Authorized For HHGContact
6Modern Movers, LLC8.698.26Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Arkansas to California

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,808 miles from Arkansas to California will cost on average $3,319 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom AR to CA move is roughly $8,002. 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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,227300 ft³7.42
1 Bedroom$3,319450 ft³7.37
2 Bedrooms$5,494750 ft³7.32
3 Bedrooms$8,0021100 ft³7.27
4 Bedrooms$11,5601600 ft³7.22
5+ Bedrooms$12,9151800 ft³7.17
*Please note: These Arkansas to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arkansas & 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 AR to CA mover.
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Compare the 6 Best AR 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

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ 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 8,688+ 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
B2 Moving Logo

B2 Moving

Exceptional9.43/10
based on 1,225+ data points

208 W Hudson Rd

Rogers, AR, 72756

About B2 Moving

B2 Moving is a family-owned company in Rogers that helps home and business owners with small and big moves across Northwest...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Load & Unload Truck Labor Only

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3219041 / 1006995

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
E

Elite Moving

Superb8.86/10
based on 211+ data points

Hot Springs, AR, 71913

About Elite Moving

Elite Moving takes the hassle out of moving with their fully insured services for residential and commercial customers, ensuring your possessions...

Services

  • Full service moving
  • Disassembly and reassembly of furniture
  • Disconnecting and reconnecting appliances

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1345746 / 925743

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
R

Ron's Delivery & Moving

Superb8.80/10
based on 331+ data points

Hot Springs, AR, 71901

About Ron's Delivery & Moving

Ron’s Delivery & Moving is a family-owned and operated company that has been in business for many years. Based in Little...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4072488 / 1547477

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
Modern Movers, LLC Logo

Modern Movers, LLC

Fabulous8.69/10
based on 294+ data points

2242 N College Ave

Fayetteville, AR, 72703

About Modern Movers, LLC

When you’re looking for a professional and affordable moving company, look no further than Modern Movers. A locally owned and operated...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3531948 / 1176121

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved4,800 (2023)
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 Arkansas to California

Moving from one state to another is a monumental decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Arkansas to California . By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about this significant change in your life.

CONs
PROs
Arkansas iconArkansas
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Smaller tech industry
  • Less scenic variety
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher job opportunities
  • More cultural diversity
  • Larger tech industry
  • More scenic variety
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Less intimacy with nature
  • More natural disasters
Arkansas iconArkansas
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More intimacy with nature
  • Fewer natural disasters

While examining the above categories, it's evident that both Arkansas and California have their unique advantages and drawbacks. However, specific aspects like California's vibrant cultural diversity and potentially higher job opportunities, particularly in the tech industry, stand out. Places like Silicon Valley offer unparalleled opportunities for career growth in technology. On the other hand, the cost of living in California, especially in popular areas such as San Francisco or Los Angeles, can be significantly higher than in Arkansas. Nevertheless, the natural beauty from the beaches of Santa Monica to the forests of Yosemite National Park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and sights that are hard to find elsewhere.

Arkansas vs. California Food Guide

Food is a fundamental aspect of local culture and reflects what it's like to live in a given area. With that in mind, we present a detailed comparison focusing on the local cuisine between Arkansas & California. This could help you better understand the food scene in your new home state.

ArkansasCalifornia
Most iconic local food itemFried catfishCalifornia roll
Most popular meat dishSmoked pork ribsTri-tip steak
Most popular street food itemBarbecue nachosFish tacos
Most popular vegan foodBlack bean burgerAvocado toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • McClard's Bar-B-Q
  • South on Main
  • Sonny Williams' Steak Room
  • Chez Panisse
  • n/naka
  • Spago
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In California, the local food scene thrives with innovation and a strong emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Fish tacos, a staple of California street food, can be found in abundance near coastal areas, such as San Diego's vibrant beach communities. For those looking at a more upscale dining experience, restaurants like Chez Panisse in Berkeley have been pioneers in the farm-to-table movement, significantly influencing how Americans think about food. Moreover, California's health-conscious culture has made it a paradise for vegan eaters, with places like Los Angeles offering a vast spectrum of vegan restaurants and cafes, such as the renowned Café Gratitude.

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Arkansas vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Arkansas and California shines a light on key housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities. It aims to provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonArkansasCalifornia
Typical Architecture StyleTraditional, CraftsmanModern, Spanish Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, privacyEco-friendly features, proximity to amenities

Moving from Arkansas to California introduces significant changes in real estate dynamics. In California, the emphasis on eco-friendly features and proximity to amenities reflects a more urban and environmentally conscious lifestyle. Meanwhile, Arkansas' preference for large yards and privacy showcases a value for space and seclusion. The stark difference in median home prices and monthly rent demonstrates the economic impact of this move, with California presenting a substantially higher cost of living. This adjustment is not only financial but also cultural, with the architectural styles, walkability, and urban lifestyle scores illustrating the distinctive living experiences in each state. Understanding these differences is key to a smooth transition.

Arkansas vs. California Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires understanding various changes, especially in weather. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in weather between Arkansas and California , providing insight into what you can expect as you transition from one state to the other.

Summer icon
90°F/70°F

Arkansas

85°F/60°F

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F/30°F

Arkansas

60°F/45°F

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Arkansas

22"

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Arkansas

Varies by region

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonArkansasCalifornia
Air QualityGoodVaries widely
Natural DisastersTornadoes, floodsEarthquakes, wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The transition from Arkansas to California introduces a significant shift in weather patterns. You'll find yourself enjoying more days of sunshine each year in California, but also facing different natural threats such as wildfires and earthquakes compared to the tornadoes and floods in Arkansas. Humidity and the UV index are lower in Arkansas, meaning you'll need to adapt to drier air and stronger sunlight in California. Moreover, the drastic variation in annual rainfall and the specificity of regional climates in California, from coastal breezes to desert heat, present a unique challenge for newcomers in terms of adaptation and understanding local weather peculiarities.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects will compare. Moving from Arkansas to California presents significant changes in cost of living, taxes, and income , impacting your budget and lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide clarity on these critical financial differences.

ComparisonArkansasCalifornia
Avg. Household Income$55,432$91,551
Cost of Living Index90.5136.4
State Income Tax2-6.61-13.3
Avg. Property Tax0.630.77
Avg. Sales Tax9.438.56
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Retail, ManufacturingTechnology, Agriculture, Entertainment
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessLowerHigher

When considering a move from Arkansas to California, be prepared for a significant adjustment financially. While average household incomes are notably higher in California, this increase is coupled with a much higher cost of living, particularly in terms of housing and everyday expenses. Taxes are also a considerable factor; California’s state income tax rates are among the highest in the U.S., which can impact your take-home pay differently than in Arkansas. Despite these financial challenges, California's economy offers vast opportunities in various sectors, such as technology and entertainment, not as prevalent in Arkansas. Understanding these dynamics is vital for planning your relocation and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

Arkansas vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Arkansas to California offers a significant cultural shift, particularly when examining the comparison of the politics between Arkansas & California and the religious landscape. This concise overview aims to provide you with a quick snapshot of these key differences to help ease your transition.

ArkansasCalifornia
Political Make-upPrimarily RepublicanLargely Democratic
Local PoliticsConservative leaningsProgressive policies
ReligionHighly religious, mainly ChristianMore diverse with lower overall religiosity

Arkansas and California offer contrasting experiences when it comes to political and religious beliefs, which could affect your day-to-day life. Arkansas's conservative, primarily Republican orientation impacts local policies and community life. On the other hand, California's progressive, Democratic-leaning stance fosters diverse and inclusive policies. Religion plays a significant role in Arkansas, where Christianity is predominant, contributing to the state's conservative fabric. Meanwhile, California's religious landscape is more varied, with a notable portion of the population identifying as non-religious, reflecting the state's inclusive and diverse culture.

Education Guide When Moving from Arkansas to California

Moving to a new state brings about the challenge of understanding the local education system. To assist with this transition, we've compiled a comparison between Arkansas and California schools. The purpose of this comparison is to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Arkansas and California, ensuring a smoother transition for you and your family.

ArkansasCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Arkansas
Arkansas State University
University of Central Arkansas
University of California (various campuses)
California State University (various campuses)
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Forest Park Elementary - Little Rock
Vandergriff Elementary - Fayetteville
Root Elementary - Fayetteville
Point Vicente Elementary - Rancho Palos Verdes
Pacific Elementary - Manhattan Beach
Old Adobe Elementary Charter - Petaluma

Top 3 Middle Schools

Lisa Academy North Middle - Sherwood
Haas Hall Academy - Fayetteville
Fulbright Junior High - Bentonville
Canyon Charter School - Santa Monica
The Nueva School - Hillsborough
Granite Ridge Intermediate - Clovis

Top 3 High Schools

Haas Hall Academy - Fayetteville
Bentonville High School - Bentonville
Little Rock Central High School - Little Rock
Henry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto
California Academy of Mathematics and Science - Carson
Troy High School - Fullerton

Top 3 private high schools

Pulaski Academy - Little Rock
Little Rock Christian Academy - Little Rock
Shiloh Christian School - Springdale
Harvard-Westlake School - Los Angeles
The Thacher School - Ojai
Phillips Academy - Andover

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Subiaco Academy - Subiaco
Arkansas Baptist School System - Little Rock
Little Rock Christian Academy - Little Rock
The Harker School - San Jose
Marlborough School - Los Angeles
The Athenian School - Danville

Top 3 School Districts

Bentonville School District
Fayetteville Public Schools
Little Rock School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
La Cañada Unified School District

When comparing the top educational institutions between Arkansas and California, it's important to note the diversity and specialization of schools available in both states. For instance, Arkansas boasts Haas Hall Academy in Fayetteville, a high achieving high school, whereas California's Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto is renowned for its strong STEM programs. Private education also shows a strong presence with institutions like Pulaski Academy in Little Rock and Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, offering rigorous academics supported by extensive resources. Furthermore, the transition between school districts might involve adapting to new curriculum standards and pedagogical approaches, particularly given California's emphasis on technology integration in education.

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