Best Virginia to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Virginia to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,653 mile VA to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 411 Virginia 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 $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Virginia 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 Virginia 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 | ARS Movers | 9.63 | 9.76 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | A Change of Place Movers | 9.58 | 9.44 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Matthew's Nationwide Moving | 9.48 | 9.63 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | TrueMover, LLC. | 9.46 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Virginia to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,653 miles from Virginia to California will cost on average $4,037 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom VA to CA move is roughly $9,759. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,707 | 300 ft³ | 9.02 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,037 | 450 ft³ | 8.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,691 | 750 ft³ | 8.92 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,759 | 1100 ft³ | 8.87 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,115 | 1600 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,789 | 1800 ft³ | 8.77 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Virginia guide.
Popular Virginia to California Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Virginia to California Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best VA 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) |
ARS Movers
Herndon, VA, 20170
About ARS Movers
ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a...
Services
- Local Moving (Residential Moving)
- Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
- Office Moving (Commercial Moving)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3260258 / 1027666 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 3 (2022) |
A Change of Place Movers
Hopewell, VA, 23860
About A Change of Place Movers
The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1293943 / 503371 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 290,815 (2023) |
Matthew's Nationwide Moving
5004 Philip Rd
Annandale, VA, 22003
About Matthew's Nationwide Moving
Matthew's Nationwide Moving is a family-owned and operated company founded in 2012 in Annandale, Virginia. With over 20 seasoned moving contractors...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Nationwide Moving Services
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2375124 / 819110 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 400,000 (2023) |
TrueMover, LLC.
21531 Blackwood Ct Suite # 100
Sterling, VA, 20166
About TrueMover, LLC.
TrueMover, LLC, founded in 2016 by Robert Murphy and Chris Gibson, is a moving company based in Sterling, VA. They are...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2862283 / 959205 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (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 Virginia to California
Moving from Virginia to California represents a significant lifestyle shift, considering both the opportunities and challenges that come with such a move. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Virginia to California , helping you weigh your options thoroughly. Through comparative charts, we delve into the specifics, offering clarity on what awaits on either side.
Virginia- Higher humidity
- Smaller tech industry
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer natural parks
California- Better weather
- Larger tech hub
- World-class cuisine
- More natural beauty
California- Higher cost of living
- More expensive homes
- Earthquake risks
- Denser populations
Virginia- Lower living costs
- Rich history
- Seasonal beauty
- Tighter-knit communities
While Virginia might offer an appeal with its lush seasons and a sense of community, California opens the door to unparalleled natural beauty and a vibrant tech scene. Living in California means having access to iconic destinations, from the bustling tech hubs of Silicon Valley to the serene beauty of Yosemite National Park. Foodies moving to California will rejoice in the state's celebrated culinary scene, offering anything from the authentic Mexican cuisine at Guelaguetza in Los Angeles to the innovative dishes at Chez Panisse in Berkeley. Yet, the excitement of relocating also comes with its practical considerations—higher living expenses and the housing market in California can be significantly more challenging to navigate compared to Virginia. Nevertheless, the move is a gateway to experiencing the vastness and diversity that define California's allure.
Virginia vs. California Food Guide
When relocating, it’s essential to embrace not just a new home, but the unique flavors of the local culture. Food plays a pivotal role in this transition, making it crucial to understand the culinary landscape of your future home. This guide aims to provide a thorough comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia & California , ensuring you are well-informed about what awaits your palate.
| Virginia | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Ham | Avocado Toast |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Pork | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Garden Salad | Smoothie Bowls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Virginia and California, local cuisine deeply reflects the cultural and agricultural diversity of each state. In Virginia, you'll find traditional Southern comfort foods with an emphasis on meats like the revered Virginia ham and BBQ pork, best experienced in historic eateries or local smokehouses across the state. California, on the other hand, offers a bounty of fresh, innovative dishes with a focus on sustainability and health-conscious choices. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are hotspots for foodies, offering everything from high-end dining experiences at places like Chez Panisse in Berkeley to casual, yet iconic street tacos found throughout the state. The vast difference in the food scenes highlights the unique lifestyles and values of each state, promising an exciting culinary journey regardless of where you decide to call home.
Ready to start your move?
Virginia vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a critical role when planning a move. Understanding how housing options compare in Virginia and California helps streamline your decision-making process. This overview will shed light on cost, style, and lifestyle differences between the two.
| Comparison | Virginia | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Modern, Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Yard space, Historic charm | Ocean views, Eco-friendly features |
When comparing real estate between Virginia and California, it’s evident that lifestyle preferences, budget, and desired amenities will heavily influence your choice. Virginia’s Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes with ample yard space offer a slice of American history and a quieter, more suburban lifestyle at a relatively lower cost. On the flip side, California’s higher cost of living comes with the perks of modern, eco-friendly homes, often boasting ocean views and a more vibrant urban lifestyle, reflected in its higher walkability and bikeability scores. Whether your priority is the charm and spaciousness of Virginia or the dynamic, eco-conscious lifestyle of California, each state offers unique advantages to consider.
Virginia vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Virginia to California, understanding the weather changes Virginia to California is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt more easily to your new environment, highlighting differences in temperature, humidity, natural disasters, and more.
Virginia
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Virginia
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Virginia
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Virginia
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Virginia | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Varies widely, major cities often worse |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Virginia to California weather involves adjusting to more days of sunshine and a drier climate overall. You'll experience less humidity and a significant decrease in annual rainfall in California, which can affect everything from your daily lifestyle to the type of landscaping you may consider for your home. Natural disaster precautions will also shift from preparing for hurricanes to understanding earthquake and wildfire protocols. Learning about these elements before your move can greatly ease the transition and help you prepare for a comfortable settling in your new Californian home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Virginia to California
When contemplating a move between states, it's crucial to gauge how your financial situation will be influenced by the local economic landscape. Understanding the differences in cost of living, state income tax, and average household income between Virginia and California can provide valuable insights for your relocation decisions.
| Comparison | Virginia | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $85,873 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 2-5.75 | 1-13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.3 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Government, Military | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Generally affluent | Highly affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lesser | Greater |
Moving from Virginia to California, you will observe a distinct increase in the cost of living, primarily influenced by housing costs. Despite California having a higher average household income, the state's cost of living index and state income tax rates are significantly greater, which might impact your disposable income. Notably, California's top industries offer unique career opportunities, particularly in technology and entertainment, which are not as prevalent in Virginia. This economic landscape contributes to California's higher affluence, but also to more pronounced poverty and homelessness rates, reflecting a wider economic disparity.
Virginia vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Virginia to California offers a slight change of scenery in more ways than one. This comparison between Virginia & California focuses on giving you a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of both states, helping you understand the community you're about to join.
| Virginia | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately conservative, with pockets of liberalism, especially in urban areas | Strongly liberal, particularly in coastal regions |
| Local Politics | Varies widely between urban and rural areas | Mostly liberal, even in some inland areas |
| Religion | Higher prevalence of Protestant and Evangelical Christians | More religiously diverse, with higher numbers of non-religious people |
When you move from Virginia to California, you might notice a distinct shift in the political climate. Virginia, with its rich history of both conservative and liberal strongholds, offers a complex political landscape that contrasts with California's predominantly liberal ethos, especially apparent in immigration and environmental policies. Religious diversity in California stands out too; while Virginia has a deep-rooted Protestant tradition, you'll find California's population is more religiously varied, including a significant portion of residents identifying as non-religious. This shift reflects the broader demographic and cultural diversity that California is known for, epitomized by places like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to your new home.
Education Guide When Moving from Virginia to California
Moving from Virginia to California brings about significant changes, including those in the educational landscape. By comparing schools and education systems, you can better understand what the comparisons are between Virginia and California school options, ultimately aiding in a smoother transition for your family.
| Virginia | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Virginia Virginia Tech College of William & MaryUniversity of California Los Angeles University of Southern California University of California Berkeley | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Arlington Science Focus School Arlington; Stenwood Elementary Vienna; Nottingham Elementary ArlingtonEl Carmelo Elementary Palo Alto; Old Orchard School Campbell; Reed Elementary Tiburon | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Longfellow Middle School Falls Church; Frost Middle School Fairfax; Henley Middle School CrozetMiller Middle School San Jose; Redwood Middle School Saratoga; Egan Junior High School Los Altos | |
Top 3 High Schools Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Alexandria; McLean High School McLean; Langley High School McLeanHenry M. Gunn High School Palo Alto; Troy High School Fullerton; California Academy of Mathematics and Science Carson | |
Top 3 private high schools The Potomac School McLean; St. Christopher's School Richmond; Episcopal High School AlexandriaHarvard-Westlake School Los Angeles; The Harker School San Jose; Polytechnic School Pasadena | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Flint Hill School Oakton; Collegiate School Richmond; Norfolk Academy NorfolkThe Nueva School Hillsborough; Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences Santa Monica; The Webb Schools Claremont | |
Top 3 School Districts Falls Church City Public Schools Fairfax County Public Schools Loudoun County Public SchoolsSan Marino Unified School District La Canada Unified School District Palo Alto Unified School District | |
When considering your move to California from Virginia, you'll note significant differences in educational opportunities. For instance, Virginia's Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology stands out nationally for its STEM focus, akin to California's California Academy of Mathematics and Science. Both states boast prestigious universities, but California has a higher concentration of top-tier institutions, particularly in the UC system. In the realm of private education, both The Potomac School in Virginia and Harvard-Westlake School in California are renowned for offering academically rigorous programs, although the cultural and environmental settings could not be more distinct. This comparison underscores the importance of considering not just academic excellence but also the surrounding community and lifestyle when selecting the best educational path for your family.
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