Best Washington to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 953 mile WA to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 392 Washington 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington 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 Washington 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 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Help-U-Move | 9.21 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 953 miles from Washington to California will cost on average $2,592 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom WA to CA move is roughly $6,225. 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 Washington 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 Washington to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,743 | 300 ft³ | 5.81 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,592 | 450 ft³ | 5.76 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,282 | 750 ft³ | 5.71 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,225 | 1100 ft³ | 5.66 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,975 | 1600 ft³ | 5.61 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,007 | 1800 ft³ | 5.56 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Washington guide.
Popular Washington to California Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Washington to California
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Compare the 6 Best WA 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) |
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (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) |
Help-U-Move
3412 N Swallow Ave
Pasco, WA, 99301
About Help-U-Move
Help-U-Move is a veteran-owned, locally operated small business in Pasco that handles over 4,000 moves yearly. It has provided residential and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Out of State Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 482337 / 252568 Authorized For Property Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2022) |
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 Washington to California
Moving from one state to another comes with its unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on transitioning from Washington to California , spotlighting both the advantages and drawbacks. By examining the cons and pros through detailed charts, you'll gain comprehensive insight into what to anticipate with this significant move.
Washington- Higher rainfall
- Cooler summers
- Fewer big cities
- Less diverse cuisine
California- Sunnier days
- Warmer beaches
- More urban areas
- Greater food variety
California- Water scarcity
- Higher living costs
- More crowded
- Earthquake risks
Washington- Lush green landscapes
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Less traffic congestion
- Rich coffee culture
While contemplating the move from Washington to California, you're trading the serene greenery and vibrant coffee scene found in cities like Seattle for the golden beaches and diverse culinary experiences in places like San Francisco and Los Angeles. California's famous cities offer an expansive variety of restaurants, such as Gjelina in Venice for modern Californian cuisine or the historic Philippe the Original in LA for a taste of the classic French dip sandwich. Beyond cuisine, California is a hub for entertainment and outdoor activities, with must-visit sights like the Griffith Observatory for stellar city views and Yosemite National Park for awe-inspiring natural beauty. However, the beauty and opportunities come with higher living costs and the need to be water-conscious due to the state's ongoing drought concerns.
Washington vs. California Food Guide
Understanding the local food culture is a crucial aspect of relocating. Food reflects the essence and vibrancy of a place's culture, heritage, and lifestyle. This guide aims to give you a glimpse into what your culinary life could look like when moving from one locality to another. Here, we will focus on a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & California, setting the stage for an informed and tasteful relocation.
| Washington | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Applewood Smoked Salmon | Tri-tip Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Seattle Dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Mushroom Stroganoff | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Washington and California, the local cuisine is shaped by the states' diverse cultures and rich histories. In Washington, the Seattle Dog—a hot dog with cream cheese and sautéed onions—reflects the city's unique and inventive culinary spirit. You might enjoy this delight while exploring Pike Place Market in Seattle. Meanwhile, California's iconic Fish Tacos, synonymous with the coastal vibe of cities like San Diego, highlight the state's fresh, local seafood. Both states offer a flourishing food scene, but California, with landmarks like The French Laundry in the Napa Valley and Chez Panisse in Berkeley, might be slightly more enticing for the ardent foodie looking for an unparalleled gastronomic journey. Both states cater well to health-minded individuals and vegans, though California takes a slight lead with its abundance of vegan eateries and health-conscious menus, reflecting the state’s overall lifestyle.
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Washington vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a cornerstone of your relocation process. Knowing how Washington and California stack up against each other in terms of housing will greatly inform your decision. This comparison focuses on cost, architecture, and lifestyle to give you a comprehensive overview.
| Comparison | Washington | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Natural scenery, Proximity to tech jobs | Proximity to beaches, Solar panels |
In terms of housing preferences and lifestyle, both Washington and California offer unique advantages. Washington's natural scenery and its booming tech industry make its real estate listings stand out, especially in areas like Seattle with its renowned Craftsman homes. On the other hand, California's real estate draws potential homeowners with its close proximity to beautiful beaches and the popularity of eco-friendly features like solar panels, particularly in cities such as San Diego, where Spanish Revival architecture predominates. The significant difference in median home prices and rent between the two states reflects their distinct market dynamics and living costs. As you weigh the options, consider what aspects of your lifestyle are most important to you in making your decision.
Washington vs. California Weather Considerations
Moving from one state to another can significantly change your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather you'll encounter. Understanding the weather differences between Washington and California can help you prepare for your relocation. By comparing key weather aspects, you can better anticipate what to expect and how to adjust.
Washington
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good-Moderate | Varies significantly |
| Natural Disasters | Rainstorms, Flooding | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Washington and California offer beautiful climates, the difference in sunshine days alone — 132 more in California — highlights the significantly drier and sunnier environment you'll find in the Golden State. California's varied topography means you can experience both coastal and desert climates, resulting in a broad range of weather conditions. In contrast, Washington's reputation for rain is well-earned, affecting both its humidity levels and lush green landscapes. Moving to California, you'll notice a decrease in annual rainfall but may also encounter challenges with air quality and seasonal allergies depending on your region.
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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to California
When planning a move from Washington to California, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're entering. Comparing the cost of living, state taxes, and economic conditions between Washington and California can provide valuable insights, ensuring you make an informed decision aligned with your financial well-being.
| Comparison | Washington | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,306 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 104.1 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | Up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.93 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.21 | 8.54 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture |
| Affluence | High | Very high |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Severe |
In comparing Washington and California, it's evident that while average household incomes are broadly similar, the difference in cost of living and state income tax represents a significant financial consideration. California's high cost of living, coupled with its progressive income tax reaching up to 13.3%, contrasts sharply with Washington's 0% state income tax. However, California's allure includes its top-tier industries and higher affluence levels. Understanding these financial nuances is crucial in preparing for the economic realities of your new home, balancing opportunities against costs.
Washington vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
In this brief comparison, we're offering a quick snapshot of the differences you'll encounter in the political and religious landscape when moving from Washington to California . This guide aims to provide an at-a-glance overview, highlighting the political views, local political nuances, and religious makeup of each state's residents, helping you understand the social fabric of your new home.
| Washington | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic-leaning | Liberal/Democratic-leaning |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies in urban areas | Highly progressive, environmental focus |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | More religious diversity |
The political and religious landscapes in both Washington and California share liberal leanings, yet they present nuanced differences worthy of note. In Washington, the urban centers like Seattle champion progressive policies, particularly around workers' rights and social welfare initiatives. California, on the other hand, takes environmental advocacy to heart with stringent policies on conservation and sustainability. While both states exhibit a lower rate of religious affiliation compared to the national average, California boasts a more diverse religious population, reflecting its multicultural tapestry. These subtle distinctions shape the cultural and social environment you're about to embrace in your new Californian community.
Education Guide When Moving from Washington to California
Moving between states can be a monumental task, especially when considering educational opportunities for your family. To aid in this transition, we’ve created a comparison to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Washington and California. This will help you make informed decisions about your family’s educational future.
| Washington | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Washington Washington State University Western Washington UniversityUniversity of California Los Angeles University of Southern California Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah) Sunny Hills Elementary (Sammamish) Challenger Elementary (Issaquah)Point Vicente Elementary (Rancho Palos Verdes) Hawthorne Elementary (Beverly Hills) El Oro Way Elementary (Granada Hills) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools International Community School (Kirkland) Environmental & Adventure School (Kirkland) Islander Middle School (Mercer Island)Henry E. Huntington Middle School (San Marino) Alice C. Stelle Middle School (Calabasas) The Prentice School (Santa Ana) | |
Top 3 High Schools International School (Bellevue) Newport High School (Bellevue) Tesla STEM High School (Redmond)California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson) Oxford Academy (Cypress) Whitney High School (Cerritos) | |
Top 3 Private High Schools The Overlake School (Redmond) Lakeside School (Seattle) The Bush School (Seattle)Harvard-Westlake School (Studio City) Phillips Academy (Andover) Cate School (Carpinteria) | |
Top 3 Private K-12 Schools Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland) The Bear Creek School (Redmond) Seattle Academy (Seattle)The Harker School (San Jose) The Thacher School (Ojai) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica) | |
Top 3 School Districts Mercer Island School District Bellevue School District Lake Washington School DistrictPalo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District La Cañada Unified School District | |
When considering educational opportunities in Washington vs. California, it's evident that both states offer exceptionally high-quality options across all levels of schooling, from elementary to high school. Washington schools, like the International Community School in Kirkland and Tesla STEM High School in Redmond, are well-regarded for their specialized programs and high academic standards. On the other hand, California’s schools, such as the California Academy of Mathematics and Science in Carson and The Harker School in San Jose, are noted for their rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on science and mathematics. Private schooling options like The Overlake School in Washington and Harvard-Westlake School in California provide prestigious alternatives with comprehensive K-12 education. These comparisons shed light on the wealth of educational opportunities available, helping you to make an informed decision that best fits your family's needs and academic goals.
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