Best Boston to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,040 mile move from Massachusetts to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 77 Boston to Los Angeles moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Stairhopper Movers), 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 Boston compared to Los Angeles. 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 Boston to Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.45 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,040 miles from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $4,366 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Los Angeles move is roughly $10,563. 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 and dropoff 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 movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,926 | 300 ft³ | 9.75 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,366 | 450 ft³ | 9.70 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,240 | 750 ft³ | 9.65 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,563 | 1100 ft³ | 9.60 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,285 | 1600 ft³ | 9.55 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,106 | 1800 ft³ | 9.50 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
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) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (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.
Boston vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we offer a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Los Angeles, CA . This guide aims to match you with a Los Angeles neighborhood that shares similarities with your favorite Boston locality, making the unfamiliar, familiar.
| Boston | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beacon Hill | Hancock Park | Historic homes, quiet ambiance |
| Back Bay | Beverly Grove | Shopping, dining, and walkability |
| South End | Silver Lake | Diverse, artsy community with hip eateries |
| North End | The Arts District | Rich cultural history, foodie destination |
| Seaport District | Marina del Rey | Waterfront views, innovative tech scene |
| Fenway | Los Feliz | Vibrant nightlife, close to parks |
| Charlestown | Studio City | Family-friendly, rich in history |
| Cambridge | Westwood | University community, cultural institutions |
| East Boston | Venice | Diverse population, unique attractions |
| Jamaica Plain | Echo Park | Green spaces, indie shops, community vibe |
In comparing these neighborhoods, it's clear how each city offers unique yet comparable living experiences. For example, if you cherish the historic charm and quiet streets of Beacon Hill, you might find Hancock Park's grand historic homes and spacious greenery a comforting parallel. On the other side of the spectrum, Silver Lake mirrors South End's artsy and diverse atmosphere but brings its own LA twist with an eclectic range of hip eateries and boutiques, such as Intelligentsia Coffee and LAMILL Coffee for your caffeine fix. For those intrigued by Boston's Seaport's innovation and waterfront living, Marina Del Rey's exciting tech scene and water activities, highlighted by spots like Marina Del Rey Hotel and Burton Chace Park, offer a similar vibe under the California sun.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Los Angeles
Moving from one city to another always comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA. By comparing the pros and cons, you'll get a clearer picture of what to expect and how your life might change for the better or worse.
Boston, MA- Cold winters
- Higher taxes
- Smaller nightlife
- Less diverse cuisine
Los Angeles, CA- Sunny weather
- Lower taxes
- Dynamic nightlife
- World-class cuisine
Los Angeles, CA- Less historical sites
- Spread-out communities
- Less green space
- Less distinct seasons
Boston, MA- Rich history
- Tight-knit communities
- Plentiful parks
- Seasonal experiences
When moving from Boston to Los Angeles, you're not just transitioning to warmer weather; you're entering a mosaic of cultures that influence the local cuisine, art, and lifestyle. Los Angeles' culinary landscape, for example, features everything from food trucks serving authentic Mexican cuisine to high-end dining experiences such as those found at N/Naka or Bestia. Neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park offer vibrant nightlife with spots like The Satellite for live music. However, while LA’s vast expanse offers diverse experiences, communities are more spread out, which can affect the sense of neighborhood closeness you might be used to in Boston's tightly-knit areas like Beacon Hill or the North End. Despite these differences, each city has its unique charm that, once embraced, can make you feel right at home.
Boston vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
When relocating from one city to another, understanding the local cuisine plays a critical role in immersing yourself into the new environment. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Los Angeles to help you get a taste of what your culinary life will look like in your new city.
| Boston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Street Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Clams | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Boston is famed for its seafood, especially the Lobster Roll and Clam Chowder, Los Angeles offers a diverse food scene with a strong focus on fresh, vegan options like Vegan Ramen and a plethora of street food with tacos leading as the most popular. Los Angeles is uniquely characterized by its abundance of food trucks that cater to every taste and dietary requirement, making the city a paradise for food lovers. Neighborhoods such as Venice Beach and Silver Lake are hotspots for health-conscious eaters and foodies looking for diverse and innovative cuisine. Meanwhile, in Boston, areas like the North End and Seaport District are must-visits to experience the city's iconic seafood dishes and historical dining establishments like Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant.
Boston vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering where to eat. This restaurant comparison between Boston and Los Angeles will help you locate your next favorite dining spots, using your beloved Boston eateries as a guide.
| Boston | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Oleana | Botanica | Fresh, locally-sourced Mediterranean dishes |
| Neptune Oyster | Connie and Ted's | A seafood spot with New England vibes |
| Uni | SUGARFISH | Offering an exceptional omakase experience |
| Toro | Bar Amá | Innovative tapas with a cozy, vibrant atmosphere |
| Mike's Pastry | Porto's Bakery & Cafe | Famous for pastries and desserts with a community feel |
| Santarpio's Pizza | Pizzana | Neapolitan pies with a modern twist |
| Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Republique | Offers both exquisite pastries and a full dining experience |
| Craigie On Main | Animal | Known for bold, creative American cuisine |
| Legal Sea Foods | Providence | Upscale seafood with a focus on sustainability |
| Flour Bakery + Cafe | Gjusta | Artisanal bakery and deli with a laid-back vibe |
Among these culinary connections, Connie and Ted's in Los Angeles captures the essence of Boston's Neptune Oyster with its dedication to delivering fresh, quality seafood in an ambiance reminiscent of New England. Similarly, those missing Tatte Bakery & Cafe's cozy atmosphere and delectable pastries will find solace in Republique's vast selection of exquisite pastries coupled with a heartening dining experience. And for the pizza aficionados, Pizzana takes the essence of Santarpio's Pizza and spins it with a modern, Neapolitan twist, ensuring the pizza magic continues across the coast. Each of these Los Angeles eateries carries a piece of Boston in its taste, making your transition a flavorful journey.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA and Los Angeles, CA aims to shed light on the housing aspects critical for your move. From costs and architecture to lifestyle scores, see how these two cities stack up.
| Comparison | Boston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Modern, Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to colleges, historic charm | Outdoor living spaces, views |
While the median home price and monthly rent are higher in Los Angeles than in Boston, the difference in lifestyle and amenities offered by each city is notable. Boston's rich history is reflected in its colonial and federal architecture and its proximity to numerous colleges, making it an ideal city for those who value education and historic charm. On the other hand, Los Angeles offers modern and Spanish Revival architecture, emphasizing outdoor living spaces and breathtaking views, catering to those who prefer a blend of urban and natural elements. Despite Boston having a higher walkability score, making it easier to navigate without a car, Los Angeles offers a unique urban lifestyle that is hard to replicate, with its diverse culture, entertainment industry, and access to beaches.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Boston vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect from the climate in your new city. From annual sunshine to the likelihood of natural disasters, see how Boston's and Los Angeles's weather stacks up against each other.
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Varies / Often Moderate to Unhealthy |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Boston and Los Angeles share similar summer temperatures, the winter months present a sharp contrast, with Boston experiencing freezing temperatures and Los Angeles enjoying mild weather. Los Angeles boasts nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, much higher than Boston, enabling a more active, outdoor lifestyle year-round. The risk of natural disasters shifts from snowstorms in Boston to earthquakes and wildfires in Los Angeles, illustrating a switch in emergency preparedness needs. Meanwhile, both cities face their distinct challenges with air quality and allergens, necessitating adaptations for individuals sensitive to these conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Los Angeles
When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison provides insights into Boston and Los Angeles' economic landscape focusing on cost of living, taxes, and income, aiding in a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Boston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.22 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Finance | Entertainment, Manufacturing, Tourism |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Boston to Los Angeles, you'll notice several key financial differences. While Los Angeles boasts a higher cost of living index, indicating generally more expensive day-to-day expenses, Boston residents enjoy a higher average household income. This discrepancy could affect your financial comfort after the move. Moreover, the state income tax in California is nearly double that of Massachusetts, potentially impacting your take-home pay. On a brighter note, Los Angeles offers a diverse job market, notably in entertainment, manufacturing, and tourism, giving you a variety of sectors to explore for career opportunities.
Boston vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
If you're contemplating a move from Boston, MA, to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Boston & Los Angeles, helping you gauge how well you'll fit into your new surroundings.
| Boston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | Democratic majority | Democratic majority |
| Religion | Catholic majority, with a mix of other Christian denominations and religions | Diverse, with a significant presence of Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities |
Both Boston and Los Angeles are known for their liberal-leaning political makeup, with a strong majority of residents supporting Democratic candidates in local and national elections. This indicates that, politically, your transition may be smoother than expected. Religious diversity is also a hallmark of both cities, though the specific mix varies. Boston has a higher concentration of Catholic residents, while Los Angeles boasts a vibrant tapestry of religious communities, including significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist populations, reflecting its broader cultural diversity. Embracing this mix can enrich your understanding and provide a deeper sense of community engagement in your new city.
Boston vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in the daily commute and traffic, making this comparison of traffic and transportation options between Boston & Los Angeles invaluable for prospective movers. From congestion levels to public transit availability, we've got you covered.
| Comparison | Boston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30.4 | 29.6 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
In Boston, the robust public transit system, including the MBTA, allows residents to comfortably live without a car, evidenced by a high score in public transit availability. This is a stark contrast to Los Angeles, where despite ongoing improvements, the spread-out nature of the city and less extensive public transit network typically necessitate owning a car for convenience. Furthermore, Los Angeles experiences higher traffic congestion, emphasizing the importance of planning commutes around peak traffic hours. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your daily life and mobility in these cities.
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