Best Knoxville to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Knoxville to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,278 mile move from Tennessee to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Knoxville to Irvine 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 Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Knoxville 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.

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Best Knoxville to Irvine Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
2Boundless Moving & Storage9.339.36Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Trek Movers9.209.02Authorized For PropertyContact
4Buster’s Box’s Moving8.989.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Gouffon Moving & Storage8.668.72Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Knoxville to Irvine

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,278 miles from Knoxville, TN to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,718 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Knoxville to Irvine move is roughly $8,979. 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$2,494300 ft³8.31
1 Bedroom$3,718450 ft³8.26
2 Bedrooms$6,160750 ft³8.21
3 Bedrooms$8,9791100 ft³8.16
4 Bedrooms$12,9811600 ft³8.11
5+ Bedrooms$14,5141800 ft³8.06
*Please note: These Tennessee to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Tennessee & 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 TN to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Knoxville guide.

Compare the 5 Best Knoxville to Irvine Movers

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

Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 6,965+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Buster’s Box’s Moving Logo

Buster’s Box’s Moving

Superb8.98/10
based on 430+ data points

5927 John May Dr

Knoxville, TN, 37921

About Buster’s Box’s Moving

Buster’s Box’s Moving is a Knoxville, TN-based moving company that offers a variety of services including local moves, out of state...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4125824 / 1578852

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Gouffon Moving & Storage Logo

Gouffon Moving & Storage

Fabulous8.66/10
based on 1,067+ data points

1520 Amherst Rd

Knoxville, TN, 37909

About Gouffon Moving & Storage

Family-owned and operated for more than 134 years, Gouffon Moving & Storage offers personalized residential and office moves in East Tennessee....

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

553340 / 273542

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans17
Registered Drivers13
Total Annual Miles Moved385,000 (2021)
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.

Knoxville vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison

To help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city, we’ll compare popular neighborhoods between Knoxville, TN & Irvine, CA. This will give you a baseline to better understand your new surroundings.

KnoxvilleIrvineHow They're Similar
Sequoyah HillsShady CanyonHigh-end homes, scenic views
Old CityDowntown IrvineHistoric charm, vibrant nightlife
Fourth & GillWoodbridgeHistoric homes, community vibe
BeardenNorthwoodShopping and dining options
West HillsTurtle RockFamily-friendly, parks
South KnoxvilleQuail HillOutdoor activities, natural beauty
DowntownGranite ParkUrban living, office spaces
Fountain CityUniversity ParkEducational institutions, family-oriented
North HillsWestparkResidential, quiet streets

If you love the upscale lifestyle and scenic views of Sequoyah Hills, you'll appreciate Shady Canyon in Irvine, known for its high-end homes and picturesque surroundings. For those who enjoy the historic charm and vibrant nightlife of Old City, Downtown Irvine offers a similar atmosphere with its historic buildings and bustling social scene. Fans of the community-centric vibe and historic homes in Fourth & Gill will find a familiar feeling in Woodbridge, known for its strong sense of community and beautiful residences. Bearden’s myriad shopping and dining options can be found mirrored in Northwood, where you'll discover a great variety of retail and culinary delights. Outdoor enthusiasts in South Knoxville will find Quail Hill's natural beauty and recreational activities equally appealing.

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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 Knoxville to Irvine

Moving from one city to another often brings a blend of excitement and apprehension. This guide is designed to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Knoxville, TN to Irvine, CA . By comparing the pros to the cons and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what awaits you in your new home.

CONs
PROs
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Higher humidity
  • Less diverse economy
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Less cultural events
  • Fewer parks
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Dryer climate
  • Greater job opportunities
  • Larger tech industry
  • More cultural diversity
  • More neighborhood parks
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • More individualistic
  • Less greenery
  • Less historical sites
  • Heavier traffic
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lush green spaces
  • Rich local history
  • Easier traffic

While Knoxville offers a charming Southern atmosphere with lush landscapes such as the World's Fair Park and affordable living costs, Irvine beckons with its sunny California weather and burgeoning tech industry. Irvine is notable for its green initiatives, being home to many parks like the Orange County Great Park. The city keeps you engaged with cultural events and a diverse food scene, featuring restaurants like Habana and Bistango that provide unique dining experiences. On the flip side, the transition to Irvine's more individualistic culture and higher cost of living might take some adjustment. Yet, the city's emphasis on technology, sustainability, and cultural diversity often makes the trade-offs worth it for many newcomers.

Knoxville vs. Irvine Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Knoxville, Tennessee, and Irvine, California. Understanding the food scene is vital as it's a significant part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. This comparison will help you become more familiar with what culinary delights await you in your new city.

KnoxvilleIrvine
Most iconic local food itemBiscuits and GravyFish Tacos
Most popular meat dishBBQ Pulled PorkKorean BBQ
Most popular street food itemHot ChickenBanh Mi
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Calhoun's on the River
  • The Tomato Head
  • Ye Olde Steak House
  • BCD Tofu House
  • Din Tai Fung
  • Habana
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Knoxville, the culinary scene shines with Southern classics, where restaurants like Calhoun's on the River offer a taste of traditional Southern cuisine near the banks of the Tennessee River. In contrast, Irvine presents a more health-conscious and international culinary experience. The city boasts a plethora of Asian cuisines, with Din Tai Fung and BCD Tofu House highlighting the city’s diverse food scene. Irvine's food trucks and vegan options reflect its modern, eclectic populace, offering everything from innovative plant-based dishes to authentic international street food. Whether you're exploring the night markets in Irvine for a Banh Mi or enjoying a hearty meal of biscuits and gravy in Knoxville, both cities offer distinct and memorable culinary experiences.

Knoxville vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering where to eat. This guide aims to ease your transition from Knoxville, TN, to Irvine, CA, by comparing favorite local eateries to help you find new favorite restaurants using Knoxville as your guide . Whether you crave high-end dining or iconic casual bites, this comparison will pave the way for exciting culinary adventures in your new home.

KnoxvilleIrvineWhat You'll Love
EmiliaBistangoOffers a sophisticated dining experience similar to Emilia's Italian cuisine
J.C. HoldwayHiroNori Craft RamenAlthough a different cuisine, it matches J.C. Holdway’s dedication to high-quality, chef-driven dishes
Stock & BarrelBurger LoungeKnown for its high-quality burgers and similar dedication to locally sourced ingredients
A Dopo Sourdough PizzaPizza 900Offers artisanal wood-fired pizzas with a focus on quality ingredients, reminiscent of A Dopo's approach
Knox MasonFarmhouse GrillSimilar in offering fresh, farm-to-table dishes inspired by regional cuisine
Sweet P’s Barbeque and Soul HouseHeritage BarbecueThough Texas-style, it’s the closest in passion and quality for BBQ enthusiasts
Yassin's Falafel HouseHen House GrillWhile offering Persian cuisine, it shares Yassin's dedication to middle eastern flavors and a welcoming atmosphere
The French Market CreperieWholesome Choice MarketFeatures an array of international foods including crepes, capturing the global spirit of The French Market
Gosh EthiopianMerkato Ethiopian Cuisine & MarketProvides authentic Ethiopian dishes that resonate with Gosh Ethiopian’s offerings
Litton's Market & RestaurantMick’s Karma BarOffers that signature burger experience in an unpretentious setting very much like Litton’s

When the cravings for a quality meal hit, Irvine's culinary scene does not disappoint, bringing flavors and experiences akin to Knoxville's cherished eateries. Bistango sets the stage for an elegant night out with its beautifully plated Italian dishes, echoing the finesse found at Emilia. For those yearning for a casual yet unforgettable burger, Burger Lounge's ethos of sustainability and local sourcing stands shoulder to shoulder with what you adored at Stock & Barrel. And for aficionados of globally inspired dishes, the transition from the beloved crepes at The French Market Creperie to the diverse international offerings at Wholesome Choice Market guarantees a seamless culinary experience. Each restaurant in Irvine not only matches the quality and ambiance of Knoxville's favorites but also adds its own unique flair to the dining experience, ensuring you don't miss out on the comforts of home.

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Ready to start your move?

Knoxville vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the difference in housing between Knoxville, TN, and Irvine, CA, covering aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonKnoxvilleIrvine
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, ColonialModern, Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, Large yardsEnergy efficiency, Community amenities

Considering a move from Knoxville to Irvine introduces you to a more urban and modern living environment. Irvine's housing market notably skews towards modern and Spanish architectural styles, highlighted with community amenities and a focus on energy efficiency—reflecting its higher cost of living and urban lifestyle rating. Despite these differences, both cities offer unique advantages, whether it's Knoxville's more traditional aesthetics with spacious yards or Irvine's superior walkability and bikeability, catering to those who prioritize a metropolitan lifestyle.

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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.

Knoxville vs. Irvine Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Knoxville, TN to Irvine, CA, understanding the shift in climate and weather conditions you'll experience is crucial. This comparison will help highlight the differences and what you can expect in your new home, focusing on everything from temperature variations to seasonal allergies. Embrace the change knowing exactly what to anticipate weather-wise.

Summer icon
88° / 67°

Knoxville, TN

83° / 64°

Irvine, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47° / 30°

Knoxville, TN

68° / 42°

Irvine, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Knoxville, TN

13"

Irvine, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6"

Knoxville, TN

0"

Irvine, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonKnoxvilleIrvine
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersThunderstorms, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Knoxville to Irvine, you'll enjoy milder winters and more sunny days throughout the year, which might influence your outdoor activities and lifestyle. Irvine's lower humidity and higher average UV index mean sun protection is more important than ever. While Knoxville battles with thunderstorms and winter chills, Irvine's climate comes with its own challenges, including a higher risk for earthquakes and wildfires. Air quality in Irvine is generally better, making it a great move for those sensitive to air pollutants. Additionally, while Knoxville sees a significant amount of rainfall, Irvine's drier climate could mean adjusting your gardening or landscaping practices to cope with less rain.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Knoxville to Irvine

When contemplating a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new home is critical. This comparison between Knoxville, Tennessee, and Irvine, California, highlights key economic factors to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision.

ComparisonKnoxvilleIrvine
Avg. Household Income$45,700$105,774
Cost of Living Index89.4136.4
State Income Tax013.3 max
Avg. Property Tax0.680.72
Avg. Sales Tax9.257.75
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Education, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessModerateConcerning

Moving from Knoxville to Irvine implies adapting from a more affordable cost of living to a significantly higher one. The stark contrast in average household income underscores the economic disparities between the two cities. Irvine's high affluence is mirrored by its top industries, offering abundant opportunities in technology and healthcare. However, the higher cost of living and the state's max income tax might offset these benefits to some extent. It's crucial to weigh these differences against your career prospects and lifestyle expectations when making your move.

Knoxville vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Knoxville, TN to Irvine, CA presents an opportunity to explore contrasting communities. This quick snapshot aims to provide insights into the comparison of the politics and religion between Knoxville & Irvine, offering a glance at the differences in the political leanings and religious affiliations of their residents.

KnoxvilleIrvine
Political Make-upLeans RepublicanLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsConservative policies, with emphasis on traditional valuesProgressive policies, with a focus on environmental and social issues
ReligionChristianity is predominant, with a significant influence on community life and valuesDiverse religious landscape, with a broader acceptance of different faiths

When you move from Knoxville to Irvine, you're transitioning from a city where Republican values have a strong foothold to one where Democratic principles steer local governance. This shift results in noticeable changes, particularly in the local political atmosphere and community priorities. Knoxville's community life is significantly shaped by Christian beliefs, affecting everything from local decisions to daily social interactions. In contrast, Irvine's diverse religious landscape mirrors its progressive ethos, embracing a wide array of cultures and beliefs. This inclusive environment may provide you with broader perspectives and new communal experiences.

Knoxville vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Knoxville, TN to Irvine, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic patterns. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Knoxville & Irvine will help you better prepare for your new living situation.

ComparisonKnoxvilleIrvine
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2223
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible but difficult

Though the average commute times in Knoxville and Irvine are fairly similar, the experience of getting around these cities can feel quite different. Irvine, being part of the densely populated Southern California region, experiences higher traffic congestion than Knoxville. This is something to consider if you're accustomed to smoother drives. However, Irvine offers slightly better public transit options than Knoxville, thanks in part to services like the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA). Nonetheless, both cities present challenges if you're looking to rely solely on public transit, with a car being almost a necessity in Knoxville and highly recommended in Irvine for completely seamless mobility.

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