Best California to Florida Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from California to Florida and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,788 mile CA to FL move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 577 California to Florida 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 Sebastian Moving and More), 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 California compared to Florida. 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 California to Florida Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sebastian Moving and More9.719.69Authorized For HHGContact
2OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
3Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
4Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.9.639.59Authorized For HHGContact
5Easy Florida Moving LLC9.549.52Authorized For HHGContact
6Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from California to Florida

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,788 miles from California to Florida will cost on average $4,152 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to FL move is roughly $10,040. 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 California and dropoff in Florida 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 California to Florida movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,783300 ft³9.28
1 Bedroom$4,152450 ft³9.23
2 Bedrooms$6,883750 ft³9.18
3 Bedrooms$10,0401100 ft³9.13
4 Bedrooms$14,5231600 ft³9.08
5+ Bedrooms$16,2481800 ft³9.03
*Please note: These California to Florida moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Florida. 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 CA to FL mover.
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Compare the 6 Best CA to FL Movers

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

Sebastian Moving and More Logo

Sebastian Moving and More

Exceptional9.71/10
based on 5,993+ data points

6375 N Orange Blossom Trail

Orlando, FL, 32810

About Sebastian Moving and More

Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloading,...

Services

  • Full Service Moves in Orlando
  • Air-Conditioned Storage
  • Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1575104 / 583326

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans16
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. Logo

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,645+ data points

Chico, CA, 95973

About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3421940 / 1416634

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo

Easy Florida Moving LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.54/10
based on 1,244+ data points

319 NW 10th Terrace

Hallandale Beach, FL, 33009

About Easy Florida Moving LLC

Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company...

Services

  • Long Distance Relocation
  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving (in State)

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3064335 / 57089

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (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 California to Florida

Moving from one state to another is a significant life change that deserves a thorough evaluation. This guide compares moving from California to Florida, aiming to provide an honest comparison moving from California to Florida , reflecting both the good and bad. By weighing both sides, you'll be better prepared to make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High taxes
  • Cost of living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Earthquake risks
  • Dense population
Florida iconFlorida
  • No state income tax
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • No earthquakes
  • More space
Florida iconFlorida
  • Higher humidity
  • Flat terrain
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Fewer top universities
California iconCalifornia
  • Vibrant cities
  • Diverse landscapes
  • Tech hub
  • World-class universities
  • Progressive policies

While the decision to move from California to Florida can lead to savings in taxes and potentially a lower cost of living, it's important to consider lifestyle changes. Florida's lack of a state income tax and overall lower cost can mean more disposable income for enjoying local amenities like Florida's famous beaches and attractions such as Walt Disney World. However, transitioning from California might mean adjusting to Florida's humid climate and flatter landscapes. On the plus side, for those leaving behind California's bustling cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, Florida offers its own vibrant cities like Miami and Tampa, each with unique neighborhood parks, restaurants like Joe's Stone Crab in Miami Beach, and cultural sights, providing rich experiences in a new setting.

California vs. Florida Food Guide

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand the local culture you're stepping into, and food plays a significant role in this. That's why we're presenting a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Florida, to give you a flavor of what to expect from your new home state's food scene.

CaliforniaFlorida
Most iconic local food itemSushiKey Lime Pie
Most popular meat dishTri-tip BBQCuban Sandwich
Most popular street food itemTacosCuban Sandwich
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring the food scene is an exciting part of moving to a new state. In California, a trip down to Los Angeles or San Francisco will provide a plethora of options like the must-try tri-tip BBQ, as well as a wide variety of vegan choices including the iconic avocado toast. Food truck culture is huge, offering an eclectic mix from Mexican to Asian cuisines. Florida's Cuban influence is palpable in its culinary offerings, particularly notable in Miami's vibrant Little Havana neighborhood where the Cuban sandwich reigns supreme. Jackfruit tacos represent the state's innovative approach to vegan cuisine, revealing Florida's diverse and rich food culture.

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California vs. Florida Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, it's crucial to compare the real estate landscapes of California and Florida—two states with distinct living environments. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonCaliforniaFlorida
Typical Architecture StyleModern, SpanishSpanish, Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPools, Solar PanelsWaterfront, Lanai

When comparing the housing markets between California and Florida, it's evident that each state offers a unique appeal, shaped by its climate, lifestyle, and geography. California's high cost of living is reflected in its housing prices, with a focus on modern amenities like solar panels to complement its environmental ethos. Homes in Florida, however, tend to emphasize outdoor living spaces and are more affordable in terms of both purchase and rental prices. This affordability, combined with a lifestyle that maximizes its coastal setting—evident through the popularity of waterfront properties and lanais—makes Florida an attractive state for relocation. Moreover, the difference in architecture styles, favoring Mediterranean and Spanish influences, provides a visual distinction that aligns with each state's historical and cultural background.

California vs. Florida Weather Considerations

Moving from one state to another can be a significant transition, especially when it comes to adapting to new weather patterns. If you're considering relocating from California to Florida, understanding how the climate and environmental conditions compare is key to a smooth transition. This comparison will help you set realistic expectations and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

California

90°F / 75°F

Florida

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
55°F / 42°F

California

70°F / 48°F

Florida

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22

California

53

Florida

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
Varies widely by region

California

0

Florida

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCaliforniaFlorida
Air QualityVariable, urban areas lowerGenerally good, with some exceptions in urban areas
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHurricanes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When you move from California to Florida, you'll find yourself adapting to a more humid climate with a higher chance of rainfall and experiencing hotter summers. While both states enjoy a significant amount of sunshine, Florida's greater humidity and higher average annual UV index mean you'll need to prepare for more intense summer weather. Additionally, the types of natural disasters common to each state vary, with California facing threats from earthquakes and wildfires, while in Florida, hurricanes and flooding are more prevalent. Understanding these differences will allow you to better prepare for your new environment.

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

Moving from one location to another fundamentally changes your cost of living and financial outlook. When considering such a move, especially between California and Florida , it's essential to compare how aspects related to money and finance will differ. This comprehensive overview aids in preparing you for the financial changes ahead.

ComparisonCaliforniaFlorida
Avg. Household Income$91,551$69,303
Cost of Living Index136.497.8
State Income Tax1 - 13.30
Avg. Property Tax0.770.97
Avg. Sales Tax8.827.05
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Agriculture, EntertainmentTourism, Agriculture, International Trade
AffluenceHighModerate to high
PovertyHighModest
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from California to Florida presents significant financial differences that can impact your lifestyle. For starters, the absence of state income tax in Florida can offer considerable savings, especially when compared to California's progressive tax system which peaks at 13.3%. However, this benefit may be offset by differences in average household income and the cost of living. Florida's lower costs in these areas complement the no-state-income-tax advantage, potentially stretching your dollar further. Furthermore, while both states enjoy flourishing industries, the economic landscape changes distinctly, with Florida's economy deeply rooted in tourism and international trade, contrasting with California's tech and entertainment dominance. Understanding these differences and how they align with your financial and lifestyle goals is crucial when planning your move.

California vs. Florida Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison provides a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between California & Florida , including their political, and religious makeup. It's designed to help you understand the cultural landscape of the state you're moving to.

CaliforniaFlorida
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticConservative/Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesSwing State, Mixed Policies
ReligionLess Religious, Diverse FaithsMore Religious, Predominantly Christian

When moving from California to Florida, you'll encounter distinct political and religious landscapes. California, known for its liberal stance, embraces progressive policies and hosts a diverse mix of faiths. In contrast, Florida showcases a more conservative viewpoint at the state level, though it's recognized as a swing state with a mix of political ideologies at local levels. The religious scene in Florida also leans more towards Christian denominations. Understanding these differences will aid in a smoother transition and integration into your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from California to Florida

Moving states can be a daunting process, especially when it comes to finding the best educational system for your family. To help with this transition, we've compiled a comparison to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Florida . This guide will give you a glimpse into how the educational landscapes differ between these two states.

CaliforniaFlorida

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

UCLA
UC Berkeley
Stanford
University of Florida
Florida State University
University of Miami

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Palo Alto Unified
Reed Union
La Cañada Unified
Pine View School
Beacon Cove Intermediate
Freedom 7 Elementary

Top 3 Middle Schools

Egan Junior High (Los Altos)
Carmel Middle (Carmel)
Miller Creek Middle (San Rafael)
Bak Middle School of the Arts (West Palm Beach)
Pine View School (Osprey)
Archimedean Middle Conservatory (Miami)

Top 3 High School Schools

Henry M. Gunn (Palo Alto)
California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)
Troy High (Fullerton)
Stanton College Preparatory (Jacksonville)
Pine View School (Osprey)
Design and Architecture Senior High (Miami)

Top 3 private high schools

Harvard-Westlake (Studio City)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Polytechnic School (Pasadena)
Pine Crest School (Fort Lauderdale)
American Heritage School (Plantation)
Ransom Everglades School (Coconut Grove)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Harvard-Westlake (Studio City)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
The Cate School (Carpinteria)
Bolles School (Jacksonville)
Berkeley Preparatory School (Tampa)
American Heritage School (Plantation)

Top 3 School Districts

Palo Alto Unified
San Marino Unified
La Cañada Unified
St. Johns County
Sarasota County
Okaloosa County

When comparing the educational systems of California and Florida, it's worth noting that both states offer a wide range of high-quality education options from elementary through high school. For instance, California's Palo Alto Unified School District is renowned for its strong academic programs, similar to St. John's County in Florida, which is praised for its public schools' excellence. For those interested in higher education for their children, California students tend to gravitate towards prestigious institutions like UCLA and Stanford, while Florida’s seniors often prefer the University of Florida or Florida State University. Additionally, both states boast exclusive private schools that offer top-tier education, such as Harvard-Westlake in California and Pine Crest School in Florida. These schools represent just a fraction of the overall educational excellence available, indicating that no matter where you decide to call home, quality education is accessible.

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