Best California to Montana Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to Montana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,307 mile CA to MT move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 300 California to Montana 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 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to Montana. 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 California to Montana 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 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Moving On Up | 8.79 | 8.05 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 6 | On The Move LLC | 8.51 | 8.16 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to Montana
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,307 miles from California to Montana will cost on average $2,893 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to MT move is roughly $6,961. 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 Montana 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 Montana movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,943 | 300 ft³ | 6.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,893 | 450 ft³ | 6.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,784 | 750 ft³ | 6.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,961 | 1100 ft³ | 6.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,045 | 1600 ft³ | 6.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,211 | 1800 ft³ | 6.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Montana to California guide.
Popular California to Montana Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular California to Montana Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best CA to MT 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) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
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 On Up
Deer Lodge, MT
About Moving On Up
Moving On Up is a Montana-based moving company that specializes in providing reliable, honest, and efficient moving services to its customers....
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3890213 / 1487675 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 12,000 (2021) |
On The Move LLC
Bozeman, MT, 59715
About On The Move LLC
On The Move LLC provides excellent moving services throughout Southwest Montana, including Belgrade, Big Sky, Livingston, Paradise Valley, Three Forks, and...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Packing Help
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2399161 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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 California to Montana
Moving from one state to another offers a blend of experiences, reflecting both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from California to Montana , helping you weigh your decision with a balanced perspective. Let's delve into the pros and cons through comprehensive charts.
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
- Pollution
- Water scarcity
Montana- Lower cost of living
- Minimal traffic
- Vast open spaces
- Cleaner air
- Abundant natural resources
Montana- No beaches
- Less diversity
- More limited options
- Fewer job opportunities
- Harsh winters
California- Beach access
- Diverse culture
- Variety of entertainment
- Strong job market
- Mild winters
While the move from California's bustling cities to Montana's serene landscapes may represent a dramatic change, it's important to consider quality of life factors that are important to you. For example, trading in the crowded beaches of California for Montana's vast open spaces could be a breath of fresh air, both figuratively and literally. In Montana, you'll find cities like Missoula and Bozeman that offer a vibrant community feel with small local parks, unique restaurants such as Plonk Wine in Bozeman, and natural sights like Glacier National Park. While you might miss California's diverse entertainment options, Montana's robust outdoor activities from skiing to fishing can offer a rewarding lifestyle.
California vs. Montana Food Guide
Finding comfort in the culinary landscapes of a new region can profoundly impact your settling-in experience. As such, understanding the gastronomic differences is crucial for those considering a move. Here, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Montana , helping you to form a savory preview of what awaits in your potential new home.
| California | Montana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sushi | Huckleberry pie |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip steak | Bison steak |
| Most popular street food item | Fish tacos | Elk burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado toast | Lentil stew |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
California is famed for its health-conscious and innovative culinary scene, boasting a vast array of vegan options and food trucks at nearly every corner, especially in vibrant cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Notably, places such as Chez Panisse in Berkeley have pioneered farm-to-table dining. On the flip side, Montana offers a rustic, heartwarming cuisine with dishes that lean heavily on local game and produce. Huckleberry pie, a must-try, reflects the state's penchant for incorporating locally sourced ingredients. Restaurants such as Caffe Dolce in Missoula are celebrated for showcasing local flavors in a comforting setting. Both states present distinctive dining experiences that mirror their unique cultural and geographical landscapes.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Montana Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a vital consideration in relocating, essential in understanding how California and Montana compare. This guide aims to provide a detailed comparison across several key dimensions of housing to aid in your moving decision.
| Comparison | California | Montana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish | Ranch, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to beaches, Solar panels | Mountain views, Large plots |
While moving from California to Montana, you’ll notice a significant difference in both the cost of living and the lifestyle. California's housing market is much pricier, reflecting the state's many amenities and its coastal charm. With its modern and Spanish-style homes, California offers an urban setting that's hard to beat in terms of walkability and bikeability. In contrast, Montana, known for its breathtaking mountain views and large plots of land, caters to those seeking a more spacious and natural living environment. The state's ranch and Craftsman-style homes reflect a preference for traditional American architecture. This move could mean embracing a more tranquil and cost-effective lifestyle while still finding communities that offer a measure of the urban lifestyle many desire.
California vs. Montana Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another invites an array of changes, especially in weather conditions. Understanding how the weather in California compares to Montana can significantly influence your adaptation to a new environment. This comparison will help you grasp the climatic differences you should expect.
California
Montana
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
Montana
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
Montana
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
Montana
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | Montana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, wildfires | Snowstorms, wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While California is known for its relatively mild climate and ample sunshine, Montana experiences more drastic seasonal changes, with colder winters and less sunshine annually. The average winter temperatures in Montana can be quite cold, often dropping well below freezing, contrasting significantly with California's milder winters. Additionally, Montana sees more snowfall, which can range from 50 to 300 inches annually, depending on the region. This shift in weather conditions may require adjustments to your wardrobe, home maintenance, and potentially, your daily activities, especially if you're not accustomed to severe snow and cold.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Montana
When planning a move from one state to another, it's essential to compare financial aspects that will impact your daily life. This guide is specifically designed to highlight the cost of living and financial considerations when moving from California to Montana, providing a clear comparison to adjust your budget accordingly.
| Comparison | California | Montana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $67,631 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 1 - 6.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 0.83 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.56 | 0 (No state sales tax) |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture | Agriculture, Timber, Tourism |
| Affluence | Very high | Moderate |
| Poverty | High | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from California to Montana, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living, with Montana being considerably less expensive. This is reflected in lower average household incomes but also in more affordable living expenses. Moreover, Montana's lack of state sales tax can increase your purchasing power, contributing to a generally more affordable lifestyle. The difference in state income tax rates, with California's rate being among the highest in the nation and Montana's significantly lower, could also lead to noticeable savings. It's important to consider these factors, along with the comparative affordability of housing and the differing major industries, as you plan your move to ensure a smooth financial transition.
California vs. Montana Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from California to Montana involves more than just a change of scenery; it's about understanding the communities you're joining. This quick comparison offers a glance at the political and religious makeup between California & Montana, aiding in setting your expectations and easing your transition.
| California | Montana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Primarily Republican |
| Local Politics | Liberal policies on social issues | Conservative policies on social issues |
| Religion | Mix of various faiths | Christianity predominant |
When moving to Montana from California, you'll find that the political landscape shifts significantly from a primarily Democratic to a Republican majority. This change is reflective in local politics as well, where Montana tends to have more conservative policies, especially on social issues, compared to California's liberal stance. Religious makeup also differs, with Montana having a stronger Christian presence. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new community, respecting its values and participating actively within its social fabric.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Montana
Moving from California to Montana presents an intriguing educational landscape shift. In this guide, we offer a comparison to help you better understand what the comparisons are between California and Montana school options. This insight aims to empower your decision-making for your family's educational journey.
| California | Montana |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UCLA UC Berkeley StanfordUniversity of Montana Montana State University Montana Tech | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Point Vicente Elementary - Rancho Palos Verdes Old Adobe Elementary - Petaluma Reed Elementary - TiburonHawthorne Elementary - Bozeman Chief Charlo Elementary - Missoula Cold Springs Elementary - Missoula | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Mill Valley Middle - Mill Valley Redwood Middle - Saratoga Canyon Middle - Castro ValleySacajawea Middle - Bozeman Washington Middle - Missoula East Middle - Great Falls | |
Top 3 High Schools Henry M. Gunn High - Palo Alto Palo Alto High - Palo Alto Troy High - FullertonBozeman High - Bozeman Hellgate High - Missoula Sentinel High - Missoula | |
Top 3 Private High Schools The Harker School - San Jose Harvard-Westlake School - Los Angeles Menlo School - AthertonMissoula International School - Missoula Valley Christian School - Missoula Loyola Sacred Heart High - Missoula | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Webb Schools - Claremont Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences - Santa Monica The Thacher School - OjaiPetra Academy - Bozeman Bozeman Field School - Bozeman Missoula International School - Missoula | |
Top 3 School Districts San Ramon Valley Unified Palo Alto Unified Arcadia UnifiedBozeman Public Schools Missoula County Public Schools Billings Public Schools | |
In California, the education landscape is highlighted by its prestigious universities and competitive high schools, such as UCLA and The Harker School. These institutions are known for their rigorous academics and extensive extracurricular programs. Conversely, Montana offers a more intimate learning environment with schools like Bozeman High and the University of Montana, emphasizing a strong sense of community and access to unique outdoor educational opportunities. The difference in the size and scale of these educational institutions reflects the distinct lifestyles of each state. Whether seeking the vibrant, diverse educational opportunities in California or the close-knit, community-focused schools in Montana, your choice will significantly shape your family's educational journey.
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