Best Tacoma to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tacoma to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,101 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 Tacoma to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Tacoma compared to Los Angeles. 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 Tacoma to Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tacoma to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,101 miles from Tacoma, WA to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $2,718 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Los Angeles move is roughly $6,533. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,827 | 300 ft³ | 6.09 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,718 | 450 ft³ | 6.04 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,492 | 750 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,533 | 1100 ft³ | 5.94 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,422 | 1600 ft³ | 5.89 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,510 | 1800 ft³ | 5.84 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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.
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but comparing neighborhoods from where you're coming from can make the transition smoother. If you're relocating from Tacoma, WA to Los Angeles, CA, this guide outlines local neighborhoods' similarities, helping you find a new home that feels familiar.
| Tacoma | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North End | Silver Lake | Trendy, creative community |
| Proctor District | Los Feliz | Quaint, walkable with boutique shops |
| Old Town | Pasadena | Historic, cultural hub with arts |
| Stadium District | West Hollywood | Vibrant nightlife, arts scene |
| Hilltop | Leimert Park | Historic, culturally rich |
| Eastside | North Hollywood | Diverse, flourishing arts community |
| South Tacoma | Van Nuys | Residential, diverse population |
| 6th Avenue | Abbott Kinney | Hip, artsy with food scene |
| Lincoln District | Koreatown | Bustling, dense with cultural eateries |
| Central Tacoma | Encino | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
In comparing the neighborhoods, for instance, if you cherished the quaint, artsy vibe and community-centric atmosphere of Proctor District in Tacoma, with its charming streets lined with boutique shops like Proctor District Merchants, you'll find a similar spirit in Los Feliz, Los Angeles. Los Feliz boasts of landmarks like Barnsdall Art Park and the iconic Griffith Observatory, surrounded by vintage shops and cozy cafes, mirroring the close-knit community and laid-back lifestyle of Proctor. Similarly, if the vibrant, eclectic nightlife and community-oriented ethos of the Stadium District is what you love, West Hollywood's bustling streets, lined with renowned establishments like The Viper Room and Chateau Marmont, offer an unparalleled vibrant urban experience with a rich arts scene and inclusive culture. This guide aims not only to find you a house but a place in Los Angeles that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Los Angeles
Moving from one city to another comes with its share of changes, both good and bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tacoma, WA to Los Angeles, CA . By examining the cons and pros through these charts, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what this move means for your lifestyle, activities, and overall happiness.
Tacoma, WA- Less sunny days
- Small city vibe
- Lower diversity
- Cooler climate
Los Angeles, CA- More sunshine
- Vibrant city life
- Higher diversity
- Warmer climate
Los Angeles, CA- Less personal space
- Less green spaces
- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
Tacoma, WA- Close-knit community
- Lush greenery
- Lower cost of living
- Outdoor adventures
While Tacoma offers a close-knit community feel amidst lush green parks such as Point Defiance Park, Los Angeles counters with its vibrant city life and famous attractions like the Universal Studios Hollywood and The Getty Center. The diversity in L.A. invites a plethora of culinary explorations from renowned establishments such as Guelaguetza serving authentic Oaxacan cuisine, to exploring cultural districts like Little Tokyo. The move invites warmer weather year-round, perfect for beach days at Venice Beach. However, it's worth noting the higher cost of living and increased traffic are factors that might affect your daily lifestyle significantly. Understanding these aspects before making the move can help set the right expectations and prepare for a smoother transition.
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
As you consider relocating, this comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Los Angeles is crafted to illuminate the food scenes awaiting you. Food serves as a vibrant expression of a region's culture and lifestyle. Let's delve into what each city offers to better equip you for your impending move.
| Tacoma | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | French Dip Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Salmon | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Tacos al Pastor |
| Most popular vegan food | Mushroom Stroganoff | Kale Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Los Angeles, the foodie scene thrives on variety and innovation. Neighborhoods like Koreatown offer an unparalleled Korean BBQ experience, reflecting the city's diverse culinary landscape. Tacos al Pastor, found in street food stalls across LA, speak to the city's rich Mexican culinary heritage. For those seeking a taste of local history, Philippe the Original claims to have invented the French Dip Sandwich, a must-try while exploring downtown. Moreover, Los Angeles's commitment to health and fitness is reflected in its wide array of vegan offerings, with kale salads becoming a staple in the diets of health-conscious locals. Whether you're sampling the latest food truck on Sunset Boulevard or dining in iconic restaurants that have defined the city's food scene, Los Angeles promises a gastronomic adventure that is as diverse as its population.
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering the culinary heart of your new city can turn a house into a home. This guide compares top Tacoma restaurants to their Los Angeles equivalents, helping you find your new favorite eateries, making Tacoma to Los Angeles relocation smoother. Whether you're craving high-end dining or the cozy comfort of casual eats, this chart aids in transplanting your taste buds to their new locale.
| Tacoma | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Crustacean Beverly Hills | Both offer upscale dining with an emphasis on innovative Asian cuisine |
| Dirty Oscar's Annex | Republique | Known for their brunch and eclectic, comfort food approach |
| Over The Moon Cafe | L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele | Offers a romantic atmosphere with a focus on quality, traditional dishes |
| Mosquito Fleet Chili | Chili John’s | An iconic spot for chili lovers, offering a unique and historic dining experience |
| The Table | Osteria Mozza | High-end dining with a focus on exquisite, locally-sourced ingredients |
| En Rama | Bar Ama | Both are go-to spots for upscale cocktails and inventive cuisine with a cozy, intimate setting |
| Marzano Italian Restaurant | Bestia | Both specialize in rustic Italian dishes made with meticulously sourced ingredients |
| Memo's Mexican Food Restaurant | El Tejano | Offers a similar laid-back vibe with delicious, authentic Mexican fare and sizable portions |
| Doyle's Public House | The Fox and Hounds | Authentic British pub experience, including football and a vast beer selection |
| Pacific Grill | Providence | Both are known for their seafood and commitment to fine dining experience |
While Tacoma might be known for its cozy dining spots like the intriguing Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, Los Angeles offers a similar but elevated experience in the form of Crustacean Beverly Hills, where innovative Asian cuisine takes on a glamorous twist. Likewise, fans of Doyle's Public House's vibrant pub culture in Tacoma will find solace in Los Angeles's The Fox and Hounds, offering that same sense of community alongside an impressive beer selection. On the other end of the culinary spectrum, Los Angeles's answer to Tacoma's casual and beloved Memo's Mexican Food Restaurant is El Tejano. It embodies the same spirit of generous, flavorful Mexican meals but within the bustling context of Los Angeles's vibrant food scene, ensuring that no matter where you're from, you can find a taste of home—or an exciting new favorite—within the city's sprawling culinary landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocation, necessitating a detailed comparison between Tacoma, WA, and Los Angeles, CA to understand the contrasts in living standards, costs, and lifestyles.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Modern and Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Accessibility to nature, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to entertainment, vibrant community life |
When choosing between Tacoma and Los Angeles, take into account not just the stark difference in median home prices and rent but also the lifestyle each city offers. Tacoma is well-known for its Craftsman-style homes and a serene life closer to nature, ensuring a quieter residential environment at a more affordable cost. On the other hand, Los Angeles boasts a vibrant urban lifestyle with a mix of Modern and Spanish Colonial architecture, offering proximity to the entertainment industry and a diverse community. The higher cost of living in Los Angeles is offset by its increased walkability and bikeability, along with a dynamic urban environment. Thus, your preference for a bustling city life versus a tranquil, nature-oriented existence should guide your decision.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Tacoma, WA to Los Angeles, CA , it's crucial to understand how the weather compares . Weather can significantly affect your daily life and comfort, so getting familiar with the changes you'll experience is key for a smooth transition.
Tacoma, WA
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tacoma | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Tacoma to Los Angeles introduces you to a warmer, more sun-soaked environment, with significantly more days of sunshine and higher average temperatures, especially during summer. While Tacoma experiences more annual rainfall and occasional snowfall, you'll find Los Angeles to be drier, evidenced by its lesser average rainfall and virtually no snow. Adjusting to the increased UV index in Los Angeles will require taking sun safety measures more seriously. Additionally, the shift in predominant natural disasters and top seasonal allergies might necessitate adjustments in your emergency preparedness and healthcare practices.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Los Angeles
Moving between cities can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to finances. If you're considering a move from Tacoma, WA to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the economic landscape and how your money management might change is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp the differences and similarities in finance aspects between the two cities.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 0.793 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.2 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Entertainment, Manufacturing, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Relocating from Tacoma to Los Angeles brings significant financial implications. The cost of living in Los Angeles is notably higher, driven by housing and day-to-day expenses. While Tacoma residents enjoy a zero percent state income tax, moving to California introduces a notable state income tax, which can impact your overall financial planning. However, Los Angeles offers a unique opportunity with its diverse and dynamic job market, especially in the entertainment, technology, and manufacturing sectors. This potential for higher earnings, along with the city's affluence, may offset some costs for certain individuals. Yet, it’s important to note the significant challenges related to poverty and homelessness in Los Angeles, which reflect wider societal issues needing consideration.
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Tacoma, WA, to Los Angeles, CA, it's beneficial to understand the communities you'll be transitioning between. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents between Tacoma & Los Angeles , giving you insight into the cultural and communal atmosphere awaiting in your new city.
| Tacoma | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | City Council-focused | Mayor-Council system |
| Religion | Diverse | Highly diverse with significant Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist communities |
In both cities, you'll find a predominantly liberal political leaning, reflecting broader state trends in Washington and California. However, the structure of local governance varies: Tacoma operates under a city council system focusing on council-led initiatives, while Los Angeles utilizes a mayor-council system, where the mayor has a significant influence over city policies and direction. Religious diversity is a hallmark of both locales, with Los Angeles exhibiting a particularly vast array of religious communities including large Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist populations. This rich mosaic contributes to the vibrant, inclusive culture characteristic of Los Angeles.
Tacoma vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tacoma, WA to Los Angeles, CA invites a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Los Angeles to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like for residents. This guide aims to prepare you for the transition by highlighting key differences and what to expect.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but difficult |
The average commute time in both Tacoma and Los Angeles hovers around the 30-minute mark, but don’t let that fool you—the experience on the road can be significantly different. Los Angeles is notorious for its high level of traffic congestion, rating much higher than Tacoma. This is partly due to the sprawling nature of the city and the high volume of vehicles on the road. While public transit is more readily available in Los Angeles, thanks to a comprehensive network that includes buses and the Metro, getting by without a car is still a challenge for many residents. In contrast, Tacoma's smaller size and less congested streets make it somewhat easier to navigate, but its public transit system isn’t as extensive, making car ownership more of a necessity.
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