Best Minneapolis to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Minneapolis to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,906 mile move from Minnesota to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Minneapolis to Irvine 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 Metro Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Minneapolis compared to Irvine. 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 Minneapolis to Irvine Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
2 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.26 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
5 | Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI | 9.18 | 8.26 | Active | Contact |
Cost to Move from Minneapolis to Irvine
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,906 miles from Minneapolis, MN to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,402 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Minneapolis to Irvine move is roughly $8,206. 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 | $2,283 | 300 ft³ | 7.61 |
1 Bedroom | $3,402 | 450 ft³ | 7.56 |
2 Bedrooms | $5,633 | 750 ft³ | 7.51 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,206 | 1100 ft³ | 7.46 |
4 Bedrooms | $11,856 | 1600 ft³ | 7.41 |
5+ Bedrooms | $13,248 | 1800 ft³ | 7.36 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Minneapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Minneapolis to Irvine Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |

Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |

General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 24 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |

Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |

Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI

3019 Bryant Ave S # 203
Minneapolis, MN, 55408
About Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI
Exercise Equipment Installation (EEI) has been providing quality service since 1995, specializing in professional and reliable disassembly, assembly, and installation of...
Services
- Exercise Equipment Moving
- Exercise Equipment Disassembly
- Exercise Equipment Assembly
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3914686 / - Active CARRIER |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | - |
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.
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a tool to help you find your new favorite neighborhood by drawing parallels between comparisons of the local neighborhoods between Minneapolis, MN & Irvine, CA . Whether you're looking for bustling city streets or quiet, leafy retreats, this guide will help you find a place in Irvine that feels like home.
Minneapolis | Irvine | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Uptown | Woodbridge | Lively community, lake-centric activities |
Northeast | Northwood | Family-friendly, vibrant arts scene |
Linden Hills | Quail Hill | Scenic views, green spaces |
North Loop | Westpark | Dynamic, trendy dining options |
Edina | Turtle Rock | Upscale living, excellent schools |
Kenwood | Shady Canyon | Exclusive, luxurious homes |
Lowry Hill | Woodbury | Quiet sophistication, accessible amenities |
Whittier | University Park | Diverse, rich cultural experiences |
Powderhorn | Great Park | Creative, community-driven activities |
Southwest | Pavilion Park | Warm, inviting family community |
For those moving from Minneapolis to Irvine and seeking a neighborhood that combines the arts and a family-friendly atmosphere similar to Northeast Minneapolis, Northwood in Irvine is a fantastic option. Northwood boasts a vibrant arts scene with local galleries and public art installations that echo Northeast's creative spirit. If the lakeside vibe and outdoor activities of Uptown are what you'll miss, Woodbridge with its lakes and community events will make you feel right at home. Lastly, for the urban-dweller used to the North Loop's trendy bars and restaurants, Westpark offers an array of dining options that cater to every palate, along with a similarly dynamic neighborhood atmosphere.

Things to Do in Irvine
- Hike at Irvine Regional Park
- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Minneapolis to Irvine
Moving from Minneapolis, MN to Irvine, CA involves weighing the highs and lows of this transition. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes in making such a move. Below, charts offer a side-by-side comparison, revealing how each city's cons measure up against the other's pros, and vice versa, providing invaluable perspective for your decision.
- Cold winters
- Limited diversity
- Less job opportunity
- Higher taxes
- Sunny weather
- Greater Diversity
- More job markets
- Lower state taxes
- Expensive housing
- High cost of living
- Less green space
- Less seasonal change
- Rich culture
- Affordable living
- Abundant nature
- Vibrant seasons
Considering the move from Minneapolis to Irvine offers a chance to experience sunny weather nearly all year round, a stark contrast to the cold, harsh winters in Minneapolis. Irvine's promise of greater job markets in booming tech and academic fields is enticing, as Minneapolis may offer fewer opportunities in these sectors. However, Irvine's high cost of living and expensive housing market could strain your budget, unlike Minneapolis's more affordable living expenses. Plus, for those who cherish nature and seasons, Minneapolis's lush green landscapes and vibrant seasonal changes provide a distinct charm that Irvine's urban setting may lack. Even so, Irvine offers unique amenities, like the Irvine Spectrum Center for shopping aficionados and Crystal Cove State Park for outdoor enthusiasts. Each city presents a lifestyle dictating its own unique set of advantages and hurdles.
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Minneapolis & Irvine, underlining that food is an essential part of the local culture and living in either area. This comparison will help you understand the culinary landscape of your new home.
Minneapolis | Irvine | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Hotdish | Fish Taco |
Most popular meat dish | Juicy Lucy | Korean BBQ |
Most popular street food item | Food Trucks Selection | Banh Mi |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Avocado Toast |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Minneapolis, the food scene is robust with a variety found in vibrant neighborhoods such as the North Loop where Spoon and Stable illustrates the city’s innovative culinary talents. Contrast that with Irvine, your taste buds will be treated to a diverse palette influenced heavily by Asian cuisines, especially evident in the widespread availability of dishes like Korean BBQ and Banh Mi, best enjoyed in the culinary hotspot of Diamond Jamboree. Irvine’s commitment to health and wellness is reflected not only in its higher scores for fitness consciousness and vegan friendliness but also in the popularity of lighter, fresher fare like avocado toast, a staple in local cafes.
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
Food not only nourishes but also comforts and defines our sense of belonging. In your journey from Minneapolis to Irvine, this restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition, helping you find new favorite eateries in Irvine equivalent to those in Minneapolis , turning an unfamiliar city into your new home.
Minneapolis | Irvine | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Spoon and Stable | Taco Rosa | upscale dining with innovative cuisine |
Butcher & The Boar | Urban Seoul | fusion spot for creative dishes |
Matt's Bar | The Cut | known for their unique burgers |
Surly Brewing Co. | Provisions Brewery | taps and bites with a local touch |
Hola Arepa | Taqueria Zamora | authentic experience for arepa lovers |
Pizzeria Lola | North Italia | for a refined pizza experience |
Revival | Lucca Cafe | Southern cuisine with a twist |
Sea Salt Eatery | Bear Flag Fish Co. | seafood delights in casual setting |
Young Joni | AnQi | Asian fusion with an artistic flair |
Kado no Mise | HiroNori Craft Ramen | the go-to for ramen aficionados |
In the pursuit of culinary familiarity in a new city, Irvine surfaces as a treasure trove of comparable, yet unique, dining experiences. Spoon and Stable lovers will find solace in Taco Rosa's upscale, yet innovative cuisine, blending traditional with modern effortlessly. For those who enumerated the evenings spent at Surly Brewing Co., Provisions Brewery offers an equally engaging local beer selection combined with comforting bites. Meanwhile, Pizzeria Lola enthusiasts will discover a refined twist on their pizza cravings at North Italia, bringing together the culinary craftsmanship and the heart of Italian dining to Irvine. These comparisons not only bridge the gap between two cities but also promise the discovery of new gastronomic delights, ensuring your new local favorites are just around the corner.

Ready to start your move?
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element when planning a move. Understanding the differences in housing between Minneapolis, MN and Irvine, CA will help you make an informed decision. This comparison covers cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects.
Comparison | Minneapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Modern, Spanish Revival |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to parks | Energy efficiency, Smart home features |
While Minneapolis and Irvine differ greatly in terms of housing costs, each city presents unique lifestyle advantages. The architecture in Minneapolis, characterized by Victorian and Craftsman styles, offers a charm that contrasts with Irvine's modern and Spanish Revival influences. Minneapolis boasts a higher bikeability and walkability score, indicative of a city where amenities are often within a comfortable walking or biking distance. However, Irvine’s emphasis on energy efficiency and smart home features in its real estate listings reflects a forward-thinking approach to living spaces. This contrast underscores the importance of aligning your housing preferences and lifestyle needs with the city’s offerings.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another brings many changes, but understanding how the weather differs between your current and new home is crucial. This comparison is particularly important if you're relocating from Minneapolis, MN to Irvine, CA, to help you prepare for the climatic changes you will experience.
Minneapolis, MN
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Minneapolis, MN
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Minneapolis, MN
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Minneapolis, MN
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Minneapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Minneapolis to Irvine, you'll find relief from harsh winters and enjoy more sunny days. Irvine’s mild winter temperatures and minimal snowfall make it an attractive destination for those weary of Minnesota’s cold, snowy months. However, you should prepare for Irvine’s higher average UV Index and the prevalence of different natural disasters, such as earthquakes and wildfires, aspects significantly different from Minneapolis. The change in air quality and top seasonal allergies in Irvine compared to Minneapolis may also impact your daily life, signaling a need for some adjustments in your routine and health precautions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Minneapolis to Irvine
Understanding how the cost of living in Minneapolis, MN compares to Irvine, CA is crucial when planning a move. This comparison will help you gauge the financial adjustments needed for a seamless transition between these vibrant cities.
Comparison | Minneapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $69,397 | $105,774 |
Cost of Living Index | 111 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 5.35 - 9.85 | 1 - 13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.28 | 0.72 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.45 | 7.75 |
Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Medical, Retail | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
Affluence | Comfortable | More Affluent |
Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
Homelessness | Visible | Less Visible |
While both Minneapolis and Irvine offer a high quality of life, Irvine stands out with a significantly higher average household income, which is crucial given its higher cost of living index. However, the potential financial impact is somewhat mitigated by California's lower average property tax. Moreover, Irvine's job market is bolstered by leading industries in technology, education, and healthcare, presenting numerous opportunities for professionals. Though both cities showcase a disparity in affluence and poverty levels, understanding these financial dynamics is key to making an informed decision when planning your move.
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Minneapolis, MN, to Irvine, CA, it's useful to understand the community you'll be joining. This quick overview aims to give you an at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of Minneapolis & Irvine . Knowing this can help set your expectations and ease your transition.
Minneapolis | Irvine | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal | Moderately Conservative |
Local Politics | Democratic Stronghold | More Balanced, with a slight Republican lean |
Religion | Less Religious Overall | Diverse, with a significant Asian religious influence |
In both Minneapolis and Irvine, the political atmosphere reflects the broader trends of their respective states, with Minneapolis being a liberal bastion within Minnesota and Irvine presenting a more moderated, somewhat conservative stance typical of Orange County. Local politics in Minneapolis heavily favor the Democratic Party, in contrast to Irvine’s more balanced political scene, where you might find a slightly more Republican influence. On the religious front, Minneapolis tends to be less religious, which could be attributed to its urban environment and diverse population. Irvine, meanwhile, boasts a rich tapestry of faiths, significantly shaped by its diverse Asian communities. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the social and cultural environment you're moving into, making your transition smoother.
Minneapolis vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Minneapolis, MN to Irvine, CA means adjusting to a new daily commute and traffic scenario. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Minneapolis & Irvine is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.
Comparison | Minneapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Yes, but it's challenging | Difficult |
While the average commute time isn't significantly different between Minneapolis and Irvine, the level of traffic congestion you'll experience can vary, with Irvine generally seeing slightly more congestion. Minneapolis offers better public transit options, reflected in its higher rating. Here, you can rely on services like Metro Transit for your daily commute, which can be a viable option for those without a car—though it may be less convenient compared to driving. On the other hand, getting by without a car in Irvine tends to be more difficult due to its lower public transit availability, making a car much more necessary for navigating daily life efficiently.



Additional Resources
Minneapolis Moving Services
Popular Minneapolis to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources