Best New Mexico to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from New Mexico to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,015 mile NM to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 302 New Mexico 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 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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 | JP Moving | 9.38 | 9.63 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.58 | 8.03 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pro-Move Logistics | 8.10 | 7.78 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.04 | 7.44 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from New Mexico to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,015 miles from New Mexico to California will cost on average $2,644 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom NM to CA move is roughly $6,354. 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,778 | 300 ft³ | 5.93 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,644 | 450 ft³ | 5.88 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,370 | 750 ft³ | 5.83 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,354 | 1100 ft³ | 5.78 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,162 | 1600 ft³ | 5.73 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,217 | 1800 ft³ | 5.68 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to New Mexico guide.
Popular New Mexico to California Moving Destinations
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Compare the 6 Best NM 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) |
JP Moving
1503 Golf Course Rd SE # D
Rio Rancho, NM, 87124
About JP Moving
JP Moving is a licensed and insured moving company based in Rio Rancho, NM. It provides residential and commercial moving services...
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3585744 / 1212778 Authorized For Property Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
Mesilla, NM, 88046
About Two Men and a Truck
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is a national moving company that has been serving customers for over 35 years. Based in...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2907535 / 978867 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 18 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 456,215 (2024) |
Pro-Move Logistics
7608 Crouch Ct
Santa Fe, NM, 87507
About Pro-Move Logistics
Pro-Move Logistics is a top-rated full-service company with over 15 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers in Santa Fe...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3942498 / 1464643 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
514 Carmony Road NE
Albuquerque, NM, 87107
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a national move company that has offices locally and has been voted "best moving company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2907535 / 978867 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 18 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 456,215 (2024) |
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 New Mexico to California
Moving from one state to another can be a daunting prospect, but understanding the benefits and drawbacks is key to making an informed decision. This comparison will provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from New Mexico to California , helping you weigh the pros and cons effectively.
New Mexico- Lower Job Opportunities
- Less Cultural Diversity
- Drier Climate
- Fewer Recreational Spots
California- Higher Job Market
- More Cultural Diversity
- Varied Climates
- More Recreational Activities
California- Higher Cost of Living
- More Crowded
- Higher Taxes
- More Traffic
New Mexico- Lower Cost of Living
- Wide Open Spaces
- Rich Cultural Heritage
- Less Traffic
When considering a move from New Mexico to California, it’s hard not to be enticed by the Sunshine State's bustling coastal cities, renowned culinary scene, and vibrant cultural diversity. Picture yourself exploring the dynamic streets of Los Angeles, with its plethora of restaurants, galleries, and iconic sights such as the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign. Or imagine weekends spent wandering through San Francisco’s bustling Fisherman's Wharf or taking leisurely hikes across the vast trails of Yosemite National Park. However, it’s important to remember that this lifestyle comes with a higher cost of living and potentially more traffic to navigate. On the other hand, New Mexico boasts a rich cultural tapestry, open landscapes providing personal space and tranquility, and a lower cost of living, valuable attributes that you might miss once you’re settled in the crowded cities of California.
New Mexico vs. California Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between New Mexico & California provides an insightful glimpse into the rich culinary diversity awaiting you. Understanding the food landscape is crucial as it plays a significant role in the cultural fabric and lifestyle of any place. Let's dive into the delicious details to enhance your moving journey.
| New Mexico | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Green Chile | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Adovada | Tri-tip Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Breakfast Burrito | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Blue Corn Tacos | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from New Mexico to California, you'll transition from the hearty flavors of green chile and carne adovada to the fresh, innovative tastes synonymous with California's culinary scene, like sourdough bread and tri-tip steak. In California, the abundance of vegan options and health-conscious eateries reflects its diverse and progressive food culture. For instance, in neighborhoods like San Francisco's Mission District or Los Angeles' Venice, one can explore iconic establishments such as Chez Panisse for a taste of California-style farm-to-table dining or savor the quintessential California street food, fish tacos, by the beach. This shift not only represents a change in diet but also in the variety and accessibility of food options that cater to a wide array of tastes and dietary preferences.
Ready to start your move?
New Mexico vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move from New Mexico to California, understanding the differences in the real estate markets is crucial. It's vital to explore how housing costs, styles, and lifestyles compare in these two states. The following chart provides a detailed comparison that addresses these differences.
| Comparison | New Mexico | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Pueblo Revival | Modern, Spanish Mission |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Mountain views | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to tech jobs |
While the median home price in California is significantly higher than in New Mexico, reflecting California's vibrant economy and desirability, it's also important to note the distinct lifestyles each state offers. For instance, California's higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores are a testament to its bustling cities and well-developed public spaces. The architectural styles also vary greatly, with New Mexico's Pueblo Revival offering a unique historical aesthetic contrasted by California's blend of modern and Spanish Mission influences. These differences highlight the importance of considering not just the cost but the lifestyle and environment you're seeking when moving.
New Mexico vs. California Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires getting familiar with new weather patterns. Making a transition from New Mexico to California, it's essential to grasp how the weather will differ to adjust accordingly. This comparison sheds light on what you can expect in terms of climate and environmental conditions in your new home.
New Mexico
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New Mexico
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New Mexico
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New Mexico
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | New Mexico | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Droughts, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Wildfires, Mudslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from New Mexico to California, you'll notice a significant difference in weather, particularly in terms of humidity and winter temperatures. New Mexico enjoys a dryer climate, with lower humidity levels and cooler winter temperatures compared to California's milder winters and higher humidity. The sunshine days are fairly close, yet California's coastal areas can experience significantly cooler summers. Furthermore, the exposure to natural disasters shifts focus, introducing the risk of earthquakes and mudslides in addition to wildfires. Adjusting to these changes will help you make the most of California's diverse climate, embracing both its challenges and rewards.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New Mexico to California
When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to assess how the cost of living and financial factors in New Mexico and California will impact your budget and lifestyle. This comparison will provide insight into the differences in finances you should prepare for.
| Comparison | New Mexico | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,726 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.45 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 1.7 - 4.9% | 1 - 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.78% | 0.73% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.82% | 8.68% |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Aerospace, Film | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
The differences in average household incomes and cost of living indexes between New Mexico and California highlight essential financial considerations for your move. While California offers significantly higher average household incomes, it also presents a much higher cost of living, challenging those not prepared for the disparity. The top industries in each state suggest potential employment opportunities relevant to your career path. Furthermore, despite California's affluence, it suffers from high homelessness rates, a critical social issue reflecting the state's housing crisis. These factors collectively provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect financially when transitioning between these states.
New Mexico vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between New Mexico & California designed to offer a quick glance at the political and religious landscape of these two states. Understanding these dynamics can help you better adjust to your new environment.
| New Mexico | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic-leaning | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed, depends on region | Varies, with urban areas leaning more Democratic |
| Religion | Predominantly Catholic, significant element of Native American spiritual practices | Pluralistic, large numbers of unaffiliated individuals |
When moving from New Mexico to California, you'll notice the political atmosphere shifts from a Democratic-leaning stance to a decidedly strong Democratic stronghold, particularly in urban regions like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Local politics in both states can vary significantly; however, California's larger cities are known for their progressive policies. In terms of religion, New Mexico's population includes a substantial Catholic presence and a deep-rooted respect for Native American spiritual traditions. In contrast, California presents a more pluralistic religious landscape, with a higher percentage of residents identifying as unaffiliated with any religion. This diversity reflects the broader cultural mosaic that defines California.
Education Guide When Moving from New Mexico to California
Moving from one state to another involves many considerations, especially when it comes to education for you or your children. This comparison aims to better understand what the comparisons are between school options from New Mexico to California , providing a clearer picture of what each state has to offer in terms of educational opportunities.
| New Mexico | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of New Mexico New Mexico State University New Mexico Institute of Mining and TechnologyUniversity of California (various campuses) California State University (various campuses) Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Pinon Elementary (Santa Fe) Double Eagle Elementary (Albuquerque) Wood Gormley Elementary (Santa Fe)Waldorf School of the Peninsula (Los Altos) The Nueva School (Hillsborough) Village School (Pacific Palisades) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Desert Ridge Middle (Albuquerque) Sidney Gutierrez Middle (Roswell) Mountain View Middle (Albuquerque)The Harker School (San Jose) The Mirman School (Los Angeles) Castilleja School (Palo Alto) | |
Top 3 High School Schools La Cueva High (Albuquerque) Albuquerque Institute for Mathematics and Science Cottonwood Classical Prep (Albuquerque)Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto) Oxford Academy (Cypress) California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson) | |
Top 3 private high schools Albuquerque Academy (Albuquerque) Santa Fe Preparatory School (Santa Fe) Sandia Preparatory School (Albuquerque)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The Thacher School (Ojai) Stanford Online High School (Stanford) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Sandia Preparatory School (Albuquerque) Albuquerque Academy (Albuquerque) Bosque School (Albuquerque)The Harker School (San Jose) French American International School (San Francisco) The Buckley School (Sherman Oaks) | |
Top 3 School Districts Los Alamos Public Schools Rio Rancho Public Schools Hobbs Municipal SchoolsPalo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District La Cañada Unified School District | |
When moving from New Mexico to California, it's evident that the educational landscape shifts considerably, from public to private institutions. California offers a diverse and prestigious set of educational institutions, including globally recognized universities like Stanford University and the University of California system. The top high schools in California, such as Henry M. Gunn High and Harvard-Westlake School, not only provide excellent academic programs but also various extracurricular opportunities that might be particularly appealing if you’re aiming for a holistic education for your children. Additionally, the top school districts in California, including Palo Alto Unified and San Marino Unified, are known for their rigorous standards and high student performance, offering a promising environment for academic achievement and personal growth.
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