Best North Dakota to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from North Dakota to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,720 mile ND to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 299 North Dakota to California 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in North Dakota 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 North Dakota to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.30 | 8.29 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Quality Pack & Load | 9.05 | 8.87 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Midwest Moving Company | 8.36 | 8.9 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.14 | 7.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from North Dakota to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,720 miles from North Dakota to California will cost on average $3,244 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom ND to CA move is roughly $7,820. 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,178 | 300 ft³ | 7.26 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,244 | 450 ft³ | 7.21 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,369 | 750 ft³ | 7.16 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,820 | 1100 ft³ | 7.11 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,294 | 1600 ft³ | 7.06 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,616 | 1800 ft³ | 7.01 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to North Dakota guide.
Popular North Dakota to California Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from North Dakota to California
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Compare the 6 Best ND to CA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Two Men and a Truck
658 Main Ave W
West Fargo, ND, 58078
About Two Men and a Truck
With more than 30 years of experience in the industry of moving families and businesses, Two Men and a Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3220190 / 1007626 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
Quality Pack & Load
1400 Burlington Dr # 2D
Bismarck, ND, 58504
About Quality Pack & Load
Quality Pack & Load is a professional moving company established in 2009. It's a family-owned and operated business with a reputation...
Services
- Full-service moving services
- Full-service packing services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3092102 / 72533 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 17,514 (2023) |
Midwest Moving Company
430 28th Ct NW Unit A
West Fargo, ND, 58078
About Midwest Moving Company
Midwest Moving Company is a professional moving company with locations in North Dakota, Minnesota, Colorado, and North Carolina. This mover offers...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3263587 / 1029171 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 500,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
1407 24th Ave S # 231
Grand Forks, ND, 58201
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service national moving company with over 35 years of experience. Based in Lansing, Michigan,...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3220190 / 1007626 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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 North Dakota to California
Moving can be an exhilarating yet daunting experience. This comparison is designed to provide an honest reflection on moving from North Dakota to California , clearly laying out both sides of the coin. By understanding the cons and pros side by side, you will be better equipped to weigh moving from North Dakota to California against your personal priorities and expectations.
North Dakota- Cold winters
- Less cultural diversity
- Smaller job market
- Fewer entertainment options
California- Mild winters
- High cultural diversity
- Expansive job market
- Broad entertainment options
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Less open space
- Can feel overcrowded
North Dakota- Low cost of living
- Less traffic congestion
- More open space
- Strong sense of community
While comparing the life you're accustomed to in North Dakota with potential experiences in California, it's essential to consider factors such as lifestyle, climate, and opportunities. California offers a vast array of cultural experiences, from dining at world-renowned restaurants like Nopa in San Francisco, exploring iconic sights such as the Hollywood Sign, to enjoying the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park. Conversely, the simplicity and slower pace of life in North Dakota, with its wide-open spaces and close-knit communities, provides a different kind of value. The bustling streets of Los Angeles and the tech-hub of Silicon Valley present vast career opportunities not found in the quieter plains of North Dakota. However, the transition to California's high cost of living and bustling urban life may require adjustments, underscoring the need for a thoughtful decision-making process.
North Dakota vs. California Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between North Dakota & California is essential because food plays a vital role in understanding the cultural fabric and lifestyle of any area. This comparison will enlighten you about the food scene you are about to dive into as you make your move.
| North Dakota | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lefse | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Bison Steak | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Fry Bread | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you transition from North Dakota to California, you'll find a striking difference in food preferences and availability. California's food scene is vibrant with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, and diverse cuisines influenced by its multicultural population. Neighborhoods like San Francisco's Mission District or Los Angeles' Venice Beach are hotspots for food lovers, offering everything from gourmet vegan eateries to iconic food trucks. Iconic restaurants such as Chez Panisse in Berkeley have been at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement, solidifying California's status as a foodie paradise. Meanwhile, North Dakota offers a more traditional American culinary experience, with dishes like Lefse and Bison Steak taking center stage, reflecting its cultural heritage and agricultural roots.
Ready to start your move?
North Dakota vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between North Dakota and California offers insight into the housing market, touching on cost, architecture, walkability, and more. Knowing these differences helps streamline your moving process.
| Comparison | North Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch | Modern, Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to amenities, ocean views |
While the median home price and rent in California significantly outpace those in North Dakota, the additional cost comes with benefits such as a more urban lifestyle and higher walkability and bikeability scores. California's architecture is diverse, ranging from modern designs to Spanish influences, reflecting its rich cultural history. Conversely, North Dakota offers spacious living with its typical ranch-style homes and expansive yards. For those valuing proximity to amenities and a vibrant urban life, California stands out, though North Dakota provides a quieter, more spacious living environment.
North Dakota vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one state to another, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This guide highlights the differences in climate between North Dakota and California to help you prepare for your relocation. The charts and details provided aim to shed light on what to expect and how to adjust to your new environment.
North Dakota
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
North Dakota
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
North Dakota
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
North Dakota
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | North Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Varies by region |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Comparing the climates of North Dakota and California reveals significant differences, particularly in winter temperatures and sunny days. North Dakota experiences harsh winters with snow, while California enjoys milder winters and increased sunshine, leading to more outdoor activities year-round. Additionally, the risk of natural disasters shifts from blizzards and floods in North Dakota to earthquakes and wildfires in California. Understanding these variances can aid in preparing both mentally and physically for the move, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from North Dakota to California
When planning a move from one state to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. Understanding how the cost of living and income levels in North Dakota contrast with those in California can greatly influence your relocation decision and budgeting strategy.
| Comparison | North Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,970 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 1.1 - 2.9 | 1 - 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.94 | 8.82 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Oil & Gas, Manufacturing | Technology, Entertainment, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Significant |
Though the average household income is higher in California than in North Dakota, the significantly higher cost of living and the nation's highest state income tax rates bite into that difference. The contrasting top industries reflect the economic diversity and opportunities available in each state, with North Dakota's economy leaning heavily on agriculture and oil, whereas California's is buoyed by tech, entertainment, and tourism. Additionally, California’s higher average sales tax affects day-to-day living expenses, offset somewhat by a surprisingly lower average property tax rate when compared to North Dakota. These financial factors are crucial considerations for your move.
North Dakota vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between North Dakota & California provides a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscape of both states, offering insights into what residents might expect when transitioning from one to the other.
| North Dakota | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican Dominance | Democratic Dominance |
| Religion | Christian Majority | Diverse Religious Landscape |
Moving from North Dakota to California, you'll find yourself transitioning from a state with a conservative and largely Republican landscape to one that is known for its liberal and Democratic dominance. This is not just reflected in national elections but also in local politics and policies, affecting everything from businesses to community initiatives. Furthermore, while North Dakota has a Christian majority, California offers a more diverse religious landscape, welcoming people of different faiths and backgrounds. This diversity in California might offer you the opportunity to explore different cultures and religious practices, enriching your social and community life.
Education Guide When Moving from North Dakota to California
Moving from North Dakota to California offers new opportunities and challenges, especially when it comes to education. This comparison helps you better understand the differences between school options in North Dakota and California, ensuring you make the best choice for your family.
| North Dakota | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) North Dakota State University University of North Dakota Minot State UniversityUniversity of California Los Angeles University of Southern California Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Freedom Elementary (West Fargo) Eagles Elementary (Fargo) Lincoln Elementary (Dickinson)Point Vicente Elementary (Rancho Palos Verdes) El Camino Creek Elementary (Carlsbad) Montague Charter Academy (Pacoima) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Ben Franklin Middle School (Fargo) Horizon Middle School (Bismarck) Discovery Middle School (Fargo)Miller Middle School (San Jose) Pacific Grove Middle School (Pacific Grove) Granite Ridge Intermediate (Fresno) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Century High School (Bismarck) Red River High School (Grand Forks) Fargo North High School (Fargo)Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto) Whitney High School (Cerritos) California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson) | |
Top 3 private high schools Shanley High School (Fargo) Oak Grove Lutheran School (Fargo) Minot Christian Academy (Minot)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) Polytechnic School (Pasadena) The Thacher School (Ojai) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Oak Grove Lutheran School (Fargo) Shiloh Christian School (Bismarck) Grace Lutheran School (Fargo)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The Harker School (San Jose) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica) | |
Top 3 School Districts Fargo Public Schools Bismarck Public Schools West Fargo Public SchoolsLos Altos School District Palo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District | |
Moving from North Dakota to California, you'll find a striking contrast in educational opportunities, particularly in terms of college destinations and the quality of school districts. In North Dakota, students often attend local or state universities, while California's high school graduates have the option of attending globally recognized institutions like Stanford University and UCLA. Furthermore, California's top private and public K-12 schools, such as The Harker School in San Jose and Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, are recognized nationally for their academic excellence and innovative programs, offering unique opportunities for students to excel in various fields. This comparison highlights the diverse educational landscapes between the two states, emphasizing California's abundance of prestigious educational institutions.
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