Best Massachusetts to California Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Massachusetts to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,099 mile MA to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 420 Massachusetts to California 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 Paradise Moving & Storage), 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 Massachusetts 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.
Best Massachusetts to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paradise Moving & Storage | 9.70 | 9.72 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Varsity Movers LLC | 9.65 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Massachusetts to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,099 miles from Massachusetts to California will cost on average $4,417 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom MA to CA move is roughly $10,686. 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,959 | 300 ft³ | 9.86 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,417 | 450 ft³ | 9.81 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,323 | 750 ft³ | 9.76 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,686 | 1100 ft³ | 9.71 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,463 | 1600 ft³ | 9.66 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,306 | 1800 ft³ | 9.61 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Massachusetts guide.
Popular Massachusetts to California Moving Destinations
Make an easier move when you book with the best.
See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Massachusetts to California
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Massachusetts to California Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best MA to CA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Paradise Moving & Storage
This listing has been claimed by Paradise Moving & Storage1186 Worcester Rd
Framingham, MA, 01702
About Paradise Moving & Storage
Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, and...
Services
- Affordable insured local and long distance movers
- Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees
- Furniture wrapping
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3619865 / 1236088 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 81,000 (2023) |
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) |
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) |
Varsity Movers LLC
This listing has been claimed by Varsity Movers LLC34 Hayden Rowe St
Hopkinton, MA, 01748
About Varsity Movers LLC
Varsity Movers LLC is a moving company based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, offering services in the New England area. Established by a...
Services
- Local Moving
- Apartment/Townhome/Condo Moving
- Small Job Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3751873 / 1401511 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,270 (2023) |
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) |
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) |
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 Massachusetts to California
Moving from one coast to another is a big step, filled with both challenges and opportunities. By comparing Massachusetts to California , this guide aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your options thoroughly.
Massachusetts- Colder winters
- Higher taxes
- Smaller beaches
California- Sunny weather
- Lower taxes
- Expansive beaches
California- Less history
- No seasons
- Year-round dryness
Massachusetts- Rich history
- Fall foliage
- Cozy winters
While moving from Massachusetts to California, you'll transition from experiencing the rich history of cities like Boston, with its Freedom Trail and historical tours, to embracing the dynamic culture of cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. California's expansive beaches like those in Malibu or Santa Monica offer a vast playground for surfing, sunbathing, and ocean views, compared to the more compact and rocky shores of Massachusetts. On the flip side, you might miss the vibrant fall foliage of New England, a seasonal highlight that brings a stunning display of colors you won't find in California's more consistent climate. However, California compensates with unique natural beauty, from the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the serene landscapes of Yosemite National Park. Here, outdoor dining year-round isn't uncommon, with popular spots like Gjelina in Venice Beach or scenic views from Top of the Mark in San Francisco offering unforgettable experiences.
Massachusetts vs. California Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Massachusetts & California. Food is a crucial aspect of local culture and understanding what it's like to live in an area. We'll delve into the differences in the food scene between these states to help you better appreciate what awaits you in your new home.
| Massachusetts | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | California Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Baked Beans and Pork | Tri-Tip Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Lobster Roll | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Harvest Bowl | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Relocating from Massachusetts to California introduces you to a diverse and enriching food scene. In California, you can relish in the freshness of tacos from a vibrant street food scene, especially in neighborhoods like Los Angeles' Arts District or San Francisco's Mission District. Meanwhile, iconic establishments like Chez Panisse in Berkeley have pioneered farm-to-table dining, reflecting California's deep-rooted values in sustainability and health. California’s culinary scene is not just about eating; it's about experiencing food that's both a lifestyle and a statement on wellness and environmental consciousness.
Ready to start your move?
Massachusetts vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal element when considering relocating. It's crucial to compare Massachusetts and California on aspects such as cost, architecture, and livability to make an informed decision. This short guide aims to highlight the differences and similarities in the housing landscape of these states.
| Comparison | Massachusetts | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, proximity to schools | Ocean views, sustainable features |
Choosing between Massachusetts and California involves considering various factors beyond just cost. California's higher median home prices and rent reflect its extensive coastlines and focus on modern, sustainable living, making homes with ocean views and green features more sought after. In contrast, Massachusetts offers a rich history with its colonial and Cape Cod-style homes, appealing to those fascinated by historic charm and education opportunities. Furthermore, California edges slightly ahead in terms of bikeability and offering an urban lifestyle, likely due to its vast cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, which are designed with bikers and urban dwellers in mind. However, Massachusetts holds its own with a slightly better walkability score, emphasizing community-centric towns that prize accessibility and local amenities.
Massachusetts vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Massachusetts to California, understanding the climate differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather varies between Massachusetts and California, preparing you for the changes you'll experience.
Massachusetts
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Massachusetts
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Massachusetts
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Massachusetts
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Massachusetts | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Varies greatly |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Massachusetts experiences a traditional four-season climate with cold winters and moderate summers, California offers a broader range of climates from Mediterranean to desert, leading to warmer winters and hotter summers in most regions. Notably, California boasts significantly more sunny days per year, which can affect your daily lifestyle choices, such as outdoor activities and water consumption. Additionally, be prepared for different natural disaster risks: whereas Massachusetts deals with blizzards and nor'easters, California faces earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences can help you adapt more quickly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Massachusetts to California
When planning a move from one state to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison provides insight into how the cost of living, income, and taxes in Massachusetts and California might affect your budget and lifestyle. Familiarizing yourself with these differences ensures a smoother transition to your new home.
| Comparison | Massachusetts | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $94,488 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.55 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.17 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 8.56 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Notable | Severe |
Moving from Massachusetts to California, you'll find some financial adjustments are required. While the average household income is higher in Massachusetts, the cost of living and state income tax are also amplified in California, making day-to-day and long-term financial planning paramount. Property taxes, however, are significantly lower in California, which could benefit homeowners in the long run. The diversity in top industries between the two states might also influence your career opportunities. Understanding these differences can help in managing expectations and preparing for the economic realities of your new environment.
Massachusetts vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Massachusetts to California, understanding the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Massachusetts & California helps prepare you for the social and cultural environment you're about to embrace. This quick snapshot offers insight into the political leanings, local political atmosphere, and religious landscape of both states.
| Massachusetts | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Democratic stronghold in urban areas, mixed in rural | Dominantly Democratic, with some conservative areas |
| Religion | Christian (Catholic majority), with diverse religious presence | Christian (Catholic majority), broad diversity in religious beliefs |
Both Massachusetts and California share a broadly liberal and Democratic political orientation, though each has its unique local political climate. Massachusetts often sees a mix of politics in rural areas versus its urban centers like Boston, while California, despite its strong Democratic presence, hosts a range of political beliefs, especially in rural or suburban regions. Religion in both states is predominantly Christian, with a significant Catholic majority, but they also boast a rich tapestry of religious diversity, offering numerous places of worship for different faiths. This diversity is a reflection of the cosmopolitan nature of both states, welcoming people from various backgrounds and beliefs.
Education Guide When Moving from Massachusetts to California
Moving from Massachusetts to California brings about a significant change in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities. However, for families, one of the most critical aspects of this transition is education. Comparing school options is instrumental in making an informed decision. Understanding the differences and similarities between Massachusetts and California schools will illuminate the educational landscape in both states. Let’s dive into the purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Massachusetts and California .
| Massachusetts | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) Harvard University Massachusetts Institute of Technology Boston CollegeStanford University California Institute of Technology University of California Los Angeles | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools John D. Hardy Elementary - Wellesley Joseph Estabrook Elementary - Lexington Vinson-Owen Elementary - WinchesterPoint Vicente Elementary - Rancho Palos Verdes Westlake Elementary - Santa Cruz Montemalaga Elementary - Palos Verdes Estates | |
Top 3 Middle Schools William Diamond Middle School - Lexington Jonas Clarke Middle School - Lexington Manchester Essex Regional Middle School - ManchesterHenry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto Los Cerritos Middle School - Thousand Oaks Miller Creek Middle School - San Rafael | |
Top 3 High Schools Lexington High School - Lexington Boston Latin School - Boston Brookline High School - BrooklineHenry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto Torrey Pines High School - San Diego Palo Alto High School - Palo Alto | |
Top 3 private high schools Phillips Academy - Andover Groton School - Groton Milton Academy - MiltonHarvard-Westlake School - Los Angeles The Thacher School - Ojai Cate School - Carpinteria | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Belmont Hill School - Belmont Noble and Greenough School - Dedham Fay School - SouthboroughThe Harker School - San Jose Polytechnic School - Pasadena The Athenian School - Danville | |
Top 3 School Districts Lexington Wellesley NewtonPalo Alto Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High San Marino Unified | |
Each state boasts highly respected institutions, from the incredible academic prestige of colleges like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Massachusetts to the illustrious campuses of Stanford University and the California Institute of Technology in California. At the K-12 level, Massachusetts' focus on high-performing public schools is visible in towns like Lexington and Wellesley, renowned for their rigorous academic environments. On the other hand, California prides itself on a variety of choices, featuring standout public schools like Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, as well as prestigious private institutions such as The Harker School in San Jose. The distinct educational landscapes highlight the importance of understanding what each state offers, empowering families to make decisions that align with their values and aspirations for their children's education.
Additional Resources
Massachusetts Moving Services
Popular Massachusetts Routes
Popular Moving Resources
