Best California to New York Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to New York and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,936 mile CA to NY move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 472 California to New York 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 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 California compared to New York. 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 New York Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | 9.78 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to New York
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,936 miles from California to New York will cost on average $4,278 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to NY move is roughly $10,347. 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 New York 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 New York movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,867 | 300 ft³ | 9.56 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,278 | 450 ft³ | 9.51 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,092 | 750 ft³ | 9.46 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,347 | 1100 ft³ | 9.41 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,971 | 1600 ft³ | 9.36 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,752 | 1800 ft³ | 9.31 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New York to California guide.
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Compare the 6 Best CA to NY 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) |
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) |
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 New York
Moving from California to New York is a significant life event that warrants a close examination of both the benefits and drawbacks. This comparison will highlight the distinct contrasts and advantages, offering an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, involving the sunny beaches of California and the bustling streets of New York. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your new life.
California- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Drought issues
- Wildfire risks
New York- Diverse culture
- Public transportation
- Seasonal weather
- Rich history
New York- Colder winters
- Higher taxes
- Faster pace
- Smaller living spaces
California- Sunny weather
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Tech job hub
- Beach access
While the move from California's sunny shores to New York's lively neighborhoods may come with its set of challenges, such as adapting to colder winters and potentially higher taxes, the unique opportunities available in the Empire State make it an exhilarating prospect. Imagine trading the vast, open beaches for Central Park's sprawling greenery, or Silicon Valley's tech hub for Wall Street's fast-paced financial district. New York's rich tapestry of neighborhoods, from the historical charm of Greenwich Village to the culinary delights of Brooklyn's Williamsburg, offers an unprecedented diversity of experiences. Whether it's exploring the latest exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or catching a Broadway show, the transition from California to New York promises a vibrant new chapter filled with cultural enrichment and endless explorations.
California vs. New York Food Guide
Food plays a significant role in understanding the culture and lifestyle of a place. In this guide, we'll delve deep into a comparison of the local cuisine between California & New York. This comparison will serve to better inform you about the diverse and rich food scenes awaiting you in these states.
| California | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Bagel with Lox |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip BBQ | Buffalo Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Pizza Slices |
| Most popular vegan food | Smoothie Bowls | Vegan Bagels |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In California, the food scene is as diverse as its landscape. For example, smoothie bowls, very popular among the health-conscious crowd, can be found in beachfront cafes from San Diego to Santa Monica. Similarly, the streets of Los Angeles and San Francisco are famous for their gourmet food trucks offering everything from Korean-Mexican fusion tacos to artisan coffee. Moving up north, The French Laundry in Napa Valley represents the pinnacle of California's farm-to-table movement, showcasing local wines and produce. Meanwhile, in New York, the culinary landscape is dotted by historic establishments like Katz's Delicatessen in Lower East Side, known for its quintessential pastrami sandwiches, and the legendary cheesecakes of Junior's in Brooklyn. New York's vegan scene is also thriving, with neighborhoods like Williamsburg and the East Village offering a plethora of plant-based dining options. These examples only scratch the surface of what you'll discover in these vibrant culinary scenes.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. New York Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate landscape is crucial when moving from one state to another. This comparison aims to shed light on the housing aspects between California and New York, encompassing cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these distinctions will help you make an informed decision on where to plant your roots.
| Comparison | California | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Revival, Modern | Colonial, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views, outdoor space | Close to public transit, historic details |
When comparing California's vibrant outdoor lifestyle with New York's bustling urban landscape, there's a notable contrast in living experiences. In California, the premium is on spacious homes often featuring Spanish Revival architecture and coveted ocean views, aligning with its higher median home price but slightly lower rent compared to New York. New York's appeal, however, lies in its unparalleled walkability and public transit access, a dream for those who thrive in vibrant urban centers. The state's historical architecture adds a unique charm to its real estate market, making it an enticing option for those drawn to vibrant city life and rich cultural heritage. Understanding these nuances offers a clearer picture of what life might look like in each state, beyond just the numbers.
California vs. New York Weather Considerations
If you're contemplating a move from one coast to the other, it's crucial to grasp how your daily life might be impacted by the weather. This comparison serves to highlight the differences in weather between California and New York , ensuring you know what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.
California
New York
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
New York
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
New York
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
New York
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Varies widely, some areas poor | Generally moderate but can vary |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both California and New York offer a vibrant lifestyle, the transition between these two could involve significant adjustments, especially when it comes to weather. California boasts more days of sunshine and mild winters which can be a stark contrast to New York's snowy winters and humid summers. Furthermore, the threat of natural disasters changes drastically; you might exchange earthquakes and wildfires for snowstorms and hurricanes. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for seasonal activities and ensure your home is equipped for the local climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to New York
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help highlight the financial implications of moving between California and New York, from average incomes to taxation and the cost of living.
| Comparison | California | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $79,557 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 102.8 |
| State Income Tax | 1% - 13.3% | 4% - 8.82% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 1.68% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.56% | 8.52% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment | Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services |
| Affluence | High | Moderate to high |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate to high |
While both California and New York are known for their high cost of living, there are noticeable differences in their financial landscapes. For instance, California's average household income is higher, which somewhat mitigates its marginally higher cost of living index and sales tax. However, New York's state income tax rates are more favorable for higher earners, despite the state's noticeably higher average property tax rate. Another key contrast lies in the industries that drive each state's economy, from technology and entertainment in California to finance and healthcare in New York. Understanding these nuances can aid in better financial planning and adjustment as you transition from one state to the other.
California vs. New York Political & Religious Comparison
This quick snapshot offers a comparison of the politics between California & New York, aiming to provide you with an understanding of the political and religious makeup of the respective populations as you consider your move.
| California | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic majority | Liberal/Democratic majority with notable conservative regions |
| Local Politics | Mixed, with strong progressive movements in urban areas | Liberal in urban areas, more conservative in rural upstate |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant numbers of Christians, non-religious, and other faiths | Primarily Christian, but highly diverse in urban areas with many other faiths present |
In both states, you'll find a liberal/Democratic majority, but New York has notably conservative regions, especially in rural upstate areas, contrasting with California's progressive strongholds. While California's local politics are distinctly marked by their progressiveness, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, New York displays a liberal front in places like New York City, with a more conservative tilt in its rural landscapes. Religion in both states reflects their multicultural and diverse populations, with Christianity being prominent, yet both states showcase a rich mosaic of faiths, particularly in their bustling urban centers.
Education Guide When Moving from California to New York
Moving across the country can often lead to questions about the quality of essential services, like education. This guide aims to help you compare the differences in school options between California and New York, ensuring you make an informed decision about where your children can receive the best education to meet their needs.
| California | New York |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UCLA UC Berkeley Stanford UniversityColumbia University New York University Cornell University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Oxford Academy Cypress / Montague Charter Academy Pacoima / Hawthorne Elementary Beverly HillsSuccess Academy Charter School Bronx / Anderson School PS 334 New York / NEST+m New York | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Preuss School San Diego / Elaine Wynn Elementary Las Vegas / Mill Valley Middle Mill ValleyEast Side Middle School New York / Baccalaureate School for Global Education Queens / I.S. 187 The Christa McAuliffe School Brooklyn | |
Top 3 High Schools California Academy of Mathematics and Science Carson / Oxford Academy Cypress / Whitney High School CerritosStuyvesant High School New York / Bronx Science Bronx / Brooklyn Technical High School Brooklyn | |
Top 3 private high schools Harvard-Westlake School Los Angeles / The Thacher School Ojai / Cate School CarpinteriaHorace Mann School Bronx / The Spence School New York / Collegiate School New York | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Webb Schools Claremont / Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences Santa Monica / Viewpoint School CalabasasBrearley School New York / Chapin School New York / Trinity School New York | |
Top 3 School Districts San Marino Unified School District / Palo Alto Unified School District / Arcadia Unified School DistrictGreat Neck Public Schools / Jericho Union Free School District / Scarsdale Union Free School District | |
When examining the top educational institutions in both California and New York, it's evident that both states offer highly reputable options, though their focuses and cultures might differ. California is renowned for its strong STEM-oriented programs at schools like the California Academy of Mathematics and Science in Carson. The state's climate and lifestyle also influence the education environment, often fostering outdoor and innovative learning opportunities. On the other hand, New York's prestigious institutions like Stuyvesant High School and Horace Mann School emphasize a diverse and rigorous educational experience, deeply rooted in a vibrant city culture that offers unparalleled access to arts, history, and global cultures. Students and parents looking for rich educational experiences will find unique opportunities in each state that cater to a wide range of interests and aspirations.
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