Best St. Louis to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from St. Louis to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,109 mile move from Missouri to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 St. Louis to Salinas 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 Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in St. Louis compared to Salinas. 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.

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Best St. Louis to Salinas Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC9.619.67AUTHORIZED FOR HHGContact
2BEK Moving Co.9.009.16Authorized For HHGContact
3New Day Moving LLC8.879.06Authorized For HHGContact
4Mod Movers8.798.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from St. Louis to Salinas

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,109 miles from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA will cost on average $3,575 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom St. Louis to Salinas move is roughly $8,628. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,398300 ft³7.99
1 Bedroom$3,575450 ft³7.94
2 Bedrooms$5,920750 ft³7.89
3 Bedrooms$8,6281100 ft³7.84
4 Bedrooms$12,4701600 ft³7.79
5+ Bedrooms$13,9391800 ft³7.74
*Please note: These Missouri to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Missouri & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MO to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to St. Louis guide.

Compare the 5 Best St. Louis to Salinas Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.61/10
based on 1,711+ data points

901 1st Capitol Dr

St Charles, MO, 63301

About Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC

Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC is a full-time moving company servicing the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area and surrounding communities. This...

Services

  • Full Moving Service
  • Commercial Moving Service
  • Long Distance Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 3/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4004648 / 1506082

AUTHORIZED FOR HHG

CARRIER

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers-
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
BEK Moving Co. Logo

BEK Moving Co.

Superb9.00/10
based on 2,046+ data points

3484 Telegraph Rd

Arnold, MO, 63010

About BEK Moving Co.

Although BEK Moving Co. started in 2017, it has over 45 years of working experience performing residential moves, commercial relocations, and...

Services

  • Residential moves (houses, apartments, high rises, etc.)
  • Long-distance moves
  • Furniture disassembly & reassembly

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3237297 / 1016140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
New Day Moving LLC Logo

New Day Moving LLC

Superb8.87/10
based on 263+ data points

Services Available In:

St. Louis, MO, 63119

About New Day Moving LLC

New Day Moving LLC is an independent full-service moving company based in St. Louis, MO, and founded in 2015. It has...

Services

  • Local & Long-Distance Moving for Residential & Commercial Properties
  • Packing, Unpacking, & Crating
  • Furniture Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3079080 / 65614

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.79/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

St. Louis vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA, it can be helpful to compare popular neighborhoods in your current city with those in your future city. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare local neighborhoods between St. Louis, MO & Salinas, CA to find where you might feel most at home.

St. LouisSalinasHow They're Similar
Central West EndMaple ParkHistoric homes, vibrant community
SoulardOldtown SalinasLively nightlife, historic charm
The HillSouth SalinasFamily-friendly, rich heritage
ClaytonToro ParkUpscale living, tranquil spaces
Forest ParkNatividadParks and recreation, community-focused
University CityCreekbridgeEducational hubs, modern amenities
Tower Grove SouthLaurel HeightsDiverse dining, welcoming atmosphere
Lafayette SquareMonte BellaBeautiful landscapes, peaceful living
Downtown St. LouisDowntown SalinasUrban core, cultural hotspots
South GrandNorthridgeShopping, eateries, vibrant community

If you're drawn to St. Louis's Central West End for its eclectic mix of historic homes and trendy restaurants like those at CWE Scene, you'll find Maple Park in Salinas similarly appealing with charming estates and a strong sense of community. For those who love the unique nightlife and the historic farmers market in Soulard, Oldtown Salinas offers a lively atmosphere with spots like the Salinas First Fridays fostering a similar vibe. Appreciators of The Hill's Italian heritage and culinary scene might enjoy South Salinas's family-friendly environment and its own rich cultural tapestry. Meanwhile, the serene and upscale feel of Clayton finds its counterpart in Toro Park, where peaceful living and green spaces prevail.

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Things to Do in Salinas

  • Explore Pinnacles National Park.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
  • Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
  • Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
  • Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
  • Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
  • Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from St. Louis to Salinas

Moving from one city to another is a monumental decision enveloped in excitement and apprehension. This comparison lays out the pros and cons of relocating from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA , providing an honest reflection of the changes awaiting you. By understanding both sides, you can make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
St. Louis, MO iconSt. Louis, MO
  • Higher crime rate
  • Humid summers
  • Lower job growth
  • Fewer outdoor activities
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Lower crime rate
  • Milder climate
  • Higher job growth
  • Abundant outdoor options
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Costlier housing
  • Fewer cultural landmarks
  • Smaller music scene
  • Less historical depth
St. Louis, MO iconSt. Louis, MO
  • Affordable housing
  • Cultural Landmarks
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Rich history

Moving from St. Louis, MO, known for its iconic Gateway Arch and rich cultural history, to Salinas, CA, a place celebrated for its agricultural bounty and mild weather, represents a significant change in lifestyle. While you might miss the bustling music scene and historic neighborhoods like Soulard or The Hill in St. Louis, Salinas offers its unique charms, such as the stunning Pinnacles National Park for outdoor enthusiasts and the National Steinbeck Center for literary and cultural enrichment. Though housing in Salinas might strain your budget more than in St. Louis, the investment in a safer environment and higher job growth potential makes the financial trade-off worth considering. Ultimately, while the move involves trading some comforts for new opportunities, it paves the way for a fresh start in a promising location.

St. Louis vs. Salinas Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine plays a critical role in feeling at home in a new place. Food is not just about sustenance; it's a profound expression of a city's culture, traditions, and lifestyle. To help you navigate this aspect of your move, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Louis & Salinas so you can savor the flavors that define these distinct regions.

St. LouisSalinas
Most iconic local food itemSt. Louis-Style PizzaArtichoke Hearts
Most popular meat dishSt. Louis-Style RibsTri-tip
Most popular street food itemToasted RavioliTacos
Most popular vegan foodCauliflower WingsAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pappy's Smokehouse
  • Zia's on the Hill
  • Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
  • First Awakenings
  • Giorgio’s at 201 Main
  • Salinas City BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Upon arriving in Salinas, you'll discover a vibrant food scene that prides itself on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, largely thanks to its rich agricultural surroundings. The city is famously known as the "Salad Bowl of the World," something that is reflected in its popular dishes like artichoke hearts and an array of fresh vegan options, including the ubiquitous avocado toast. Street food lovers will thrive here, with tacos being a staple, thanks to the city's prominent Mexican-American culture. For those looking to indulge in the local cuisine, First Awakenings offers a classic breakfast, Giorgio’s at 201 Main redefines fine dining with fresh ingredients, and Salinas City BBQ caters to those in search of comfort food with a Californian twist. Whether you're exploring the Oldtown Historic District or stopping by a farmers market, the culinary adventures in Salinas are sure to be an exciting part of your new chapter.

St. Louis vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

Food is a pivotal part of making a new city feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in St. Louis, MO, to their closest equivalents in Salinas, CA, aims to help you discover new favorite spots that echo the flavors of your existing favorites. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual, iconic meal, this guide has got you covered.

St. LouisSalinasWhat You'll Love
Pappy's SmokehouseEagle RestaurantSmoked meats & cozy atmosphere
RoosterFirst AwakeningsUnique takes on classic breakfast
Sidney Street CafePatriaElegant dining & refined flavors
Bogart's SmokehouseThe Growers PubSmoky flavors & hearty meals
The HillGino's Fine Italian FoodAuthentic Italian in a homely setting
Ted Drewes Frozen CustardRita's Ice Custard HappinessSweet treats & frozen delights
Blueberry HillGiorgio's RestaurantClassic eats with a local twist
Nudo HouseRamen HouseAuthentic noodles & Asian flavors
Sauce on the SideMidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza CompanyCreative pies & casual vibes
PastariaToro Place CafeHand-crafted pasta & cozy ambiance

If the heartwarming, smoky scents of Pappy's Smokehouse are what you'll miss from St. Louis, then Salinas' Eagle Restaurant will reignite that sense of culinary comfort with its smoked meats and familiar, cozy atmosphere. Similarly, the transition from the inventive breakfast and brunch dishes of Rooster to Salinas' First Awakenings reveals a shared passion for unique takes on morning classics. And for those special evenings out, swapping the elegance of Sidney Street Cafe for Patria offers an opportunity to indulge in refined flavors within an equally sophisticated dining experience. Each of these Salinas' equivalents not only promises a similar ambiance and meal satisfaction but also opens up the door to new food adventures in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

St. Louis vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts the process of relocating, particularly in understanding how housing costs, styles, and urban lifestyle vary between two cities. This comparison between St. Louis, MO and Salinas, CA, aims to provide insight into these aspects, facilitating a smoother transition.

ComparisonSt. LouisSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleBrick Colonial and VictorianRanch and Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, Historic charmProximity to agriculture, Ocean access

When transitioning from St. Louis to Salinas, the stark difference in housing costs is immediately noticeable. St. Louis offers more affordable living options, with a median home price significantly lower than that of Salinas. This difference reflects not only in the cost of buying homes but also in the monthly rents. Another aspect to consider is the architectural style that defines each city's character: St. Louis favors brick colonial and Victorian homes, contributing to its historic charm, whereas Salinas is known for its ranch and Spanish style homes, highlighting its agricultural roots and proximity to the ocean. Additionally, Salinas edges out slightly in terms of bikeability, beneficial for those who prefer a more active lifestyle. However, St. Louis offers a slightly more vibrant urban lifestyle compared to Salinas, which can be a considerable factor depending on your lifestyle preferences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA

1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.

2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.

3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.

St. Louis vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

When planning a move from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA, understanding how the weather in these cities will impact your daily life is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences in climate and weather conditions between St. Louis and Salinas, providing you with a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.

Summer icon
89°F / 68°F

St. Louis, MO

70°F / 55°F

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
40°F / 24°F

St. Louis, MO

62°F / 44°F

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

St. Louis, MO

15

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
17

St. Louis, MO

0

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSt. LouisSalinas
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornados, severe stormsEarthquakes, wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from St. Louis to Salinas, you'll find the weather quite different, especially in terms of temperature and sunshine. St. Louis experiences hot summers and cold winters, while Salinas offers a milder climate year-round, with cooler summers and more gentle winters. The increase in sunny days can significantly impact your outdoor activities and overall mood. Moreover, transitioning from the risk of tornadoes and severe storms in St. Louis to earthquakes and wildfires in Salinas necessitates a shift in your emergency preparedness plans. Understanding these variations will help you adjust more quickly to your new environment in Salinas.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Louis to Salinas

When planning a move from one area to another, a key consideration is how your finances might change in response. This comparison aims to outline the financial implications of moving from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA, with a focus on key money and finance metrics. Understanding these differences is crucial for a smooth transition.

ComparisonSt. LouisSalinas
Avg. Household Income$49,965$80,154
Cost of Living Index90.4136.4
State Income Tax5.49.3
Avg. Property Tax1.00.79
Avg. Sales Tax9.689.25
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Education, ManufacturingAgriculture, Manufacturing, Education
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

The cost of living in Salinas, CA, is notably higher than in St. Louis, MO, primarily due to housing and daily living expenses. The average household income in Salinas is higher, which somewhat mitigates the impact of these costs. However, California's state income tax is also higher, which can take a bite out of that extra income. On the bright side, Salinas enjoys a higher affluence level and lower poverty rates than St. Louis, indicating a possibly higher quality of life. Understanding these financial implications is crucial for anyone considering making the move, as they directly affect your day-to-day living and financial health.

St. Louis vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA, understanding the local environment you're entering is crucial. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between St. Louis & Salinas to help ease your transition.

St. LouisSalinas
Political Make-upDemocratically inclinedLargely Democratic
Local PoliticsFocused on urban development and crime reductionAgriculture and labor rights are key issues
ReligionA mix, with a significant Catholic presence Archdiocese of St. LouisVaried, strong Catholic and Evangelical communities Diocese of Monterey

In-depth comparison reveals both St. Louis and Salinas have a strong Democratic tilt in political leanings, although they focus on different local issues due to their unique economic foundations and societal needs. St. Louis emphasizes urban revitalization and safety, reflecting its dense urban environment. Conversely, Salinas, deeply rooted in agriculture, prioritizes labor rights and farming issues. Religious life in both cities is diverse, with Catholicism notably influential, supported by institutions like the Archdiocese of St. Louis and the Diocese of Monterey, underscoring a shared emphasis on community and spirituality.

St. Louis vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from St. Louis, MO to Salinas, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in driving and transiting. This overview will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as we compare transportation options and traffic conditions between St. Louis & Salinas, ensuring a smoother transition for you.

ComparisonSt. LouisSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2524
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?ChallengingDifficult

In St. Louis, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Salinas, but the difference is marginal. However, the key difference lies in traffic congestion — St. Louis experiences a higher level of traffic, which might extend commute times during peak hours. When it comes to public transportation, St. Louis offers more options, making it somewhat easier for residents to get around without a car, though it can still be a challenge. In contrast, Salinas has lower public transit availability, making it more difficult to navigate the city without owning a vehicle. If you're planning to move, considering your transportation and commute options in advance can significantly influence your daily life and convenience.

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