How Much Do Santa Barbara, CA Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The typical cost for hiring movers in Santa Barbara is $100 per hour, with the total cost to move ranging from $439 to $3,371, on average. If you’re moving out of California, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in Santa Barbara really depends on where you’re moving.

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  • Unlimited storage
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  • 10% discount

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Average cost to hire a local moving company in Santa Barbara, CA

Hiring a full-service Santa Barbara mover is definitely the most convenient option, but that convenience comes at a cost — professional movers tend to be more expensive than other moving options. If you want movers to do all the heavy lifting for you and you can afford it, hire a full-service moving company for your Santa Barbara move.

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading and they transport your belongings in Santa Barbara for you, or by renting a moving truck and handling it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from Santa Barbara to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Las Vegas $1,647 - $4,571 $1,128 - $2,239 $376 - $721
Cheyenne $2,666 - $6,561 $1,640 - $3,131 $797 - $1,705
Charlotte $3,640 - $7,738 $2,434 - $4,821 $1,549 - $3,264

And here's how much professional movers cost in Santa Barbara based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $439 $140 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $579 $140 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedroom $887 $196 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedroom $1,943 $274 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedroom $2,217 $274 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedroom $3,371 $384 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: The average cost to hire movers in Santa Barbara to move a studio apartment is $140 per hour for three hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • One bedroom: Moving a one-bedroom Santa Barbara apartment or home will typically take four hours, at an hourly rate of $140, and require two movers.
  • Two bedrooms: It will cost $196 an hour, on average, to hire a three-person crew in Santa Barbara to move a two-bedroom home. Two-bedroom moves usually take about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Local Santa Barbara movers charge an average hourly rate of $274 for a three-bedroom home. A move of this size will usually take eight hours to complete using four movers.
  • Four bedrooms: For a four-bedroom house in Santa Barbara, you can expect to pay $274 per hour for nine hours. You’ll likely need a four-person moving crew.
  • Five or more bedrooms: If your Santa Barbara home is a five-bedroom or larger, you will pay $384 an hour, on average, for five movers. Moves this size usually take about ten hours to complete.

It's worth noting the cost per hour for Santa Barbara movers remains the same for all home sizes, ranging from $140 per hour for two movers to $384 per hour for five movers. As the size of your home increases, the number of movers and hours required for the move also increases, resulting in a higher total cost.

Overall, hiring local Santa Barbara movers is a convenient and stress-free way to move within the city. By knowing the approximate cost for your home size, you can budget accordingly and make informed decisions for your upcoming move.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Santa Barbara move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Santa Barbara, CA

Our expert team of analysts has dug deep into licensing, insurance options, online reviews, and hundreds of other data points to find you the best local moving companies in Santa Barbara.

  1. Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Worldwide Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Aloha Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Hazelwood Allied Moving and Storage, Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Mammoth Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (37%)
  • Efficient service (35%)
  • Careful handling (30%)
Cons
  • Higher-than-expected costs (28%)
  • Damage to items (26%)
  • Lack of communication (25%)
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers has 523 online customer reviews, 84% of which are positive. Many customers praised the movers for their professionalism, efficiency, and careful handling of items. They noted that the team was friendly and hardworking, making the moving process easier. Some negative feedback highlighted issues with packing quality, unexpected charges, and communication problems. Overall, Meathead Movers is seen as a reliable choice, especially compared to other companies, but some customers felt let down by specific experiences.
Get a Quote (805) 987-7201

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers


Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Oxnard and LA since 1998. Known for its reliability, the company also offers packing and unpacking services, making it a one-stop solution for your moving needs. With 328 Yelp reviews averaging 4.2 stars and 180 Google reviews with a similar rating, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Meathead Movers stands out compared to other nearby movers. No deposit is required, and they accept both cash and credit cards, providing convenience and peace of mind to their customers.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (25%)
  • Good communication (20%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (15%)
  • Lack of communication (12%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (10%)
Review Analysis
Worldwide Moving & Storage, Inc. has 163 customer feedback entries, with 78% being positive. Customers praise the company for its efficient service, professional staff, and good communication throughout the moving process. Many noted the careful handling of belongings and timely delivery. On the downside, some reported issues with damaged items and a lack of follow-up regarding claims. Despite these concerns, the majority of feedback highlights the company's reliability and dedication to customer satisfaction, setting it apart from other moving services.
Get a Quote (805) 487-3901

Company Info

State license #: 0130677

Years in Business: 66

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower, WWMS, Inc., Worldwide Moving and Storage, Inc., Worldwide Moving and Storage, Worldwide Moving & Storage


Worldwide Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Oxnard, CA since 1958. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and stellar consumer reviews on Google averaging 4.8, it's clear they have a longstanding reputation for quality service. Unlike many nearby movers, they offer extensive services including packing, crating, and storage, along with specialized moving for fragile items, pianos, and antiques. Though they require a deposit, the company accepts both cash and credit cards. Overall, Worldwide Moving & Storage stands out for its comprehensive services and decades of reliability.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
Pros
  • Efficient service (60%)
  • Professional and polite staff (57%)
  • Careful handling (53%)
Cons
  • Higher-than-expected costs (15%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (10%)
  • Lack of communication (8%)
Review Analysis
Aloha Moving has 102 customer reviews, with 92% being positive. Customers consistently praise the company for its efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many highlight how Paul, the owner, provides clear communication and fair pricing. On the downside, a few customers reported issues with higher-than-expected costs and a lack of timely updates during the moving process. Despite these concerns, Aloha Moving stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction and reliable service compared to other companies in the area.
Get a Quote (805) 564-8800

Company Info

State license #: 0191816

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 2660138


Aloha Moving is a reputable local moving company providing residential moving services in and around Santa Barbara, CA, since 2000. With stellar reviews, an average rating of 4.5 on Yelp, and a perfect 5.0 on Google, coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among nearby moving companies. In addition to local moves, Aloha Moving offers comprehensive services such as packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for pianos, pool tables, art, and antiques. Notably, they require no deposit, making them an accessible and trusted choice for your moving needs.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
Pros
  • Efficient service (40%)
  • Professional and polite staff (36%)
  • Careful handling (32%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (28%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (24%)
  • Lack of communication (16%)
Review Analysis
Hazelwood Allied Moving and Storage, Inc has 25 customer reviews, with 84% of them being positive. Many customers praised the company's efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of belongings. However, some feedback highlighted issues like damage to items and delayed delivery. Overall, Hazelwood stands out among moving companies for its strong customer service and commitment to quality, despite a few areas needing improvement.
Get a Quote (805) 963-4493

Company Info

State license #: 0102801

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 2645119

Alternate Names: Hazelwood Moving and Storage


Hazelwood Allied Moving and Storage, Inc has been a trusted local moving company in Santa Barbara, CA since 1989, providing top-notch residential moving services. Unlike other nearby movers, Hazelwood Allied excels with an impressive average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google, reflecting their exceptional customer satisfaction. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, this company offers comprehensive moving solutions, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized care for items like pianos and antiques. Full valuation insurance coverage and the availability of storage options further set them apart from the competition.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (40%)
  • Efficient service (38%)
  • Careful handling (36%)
Cons
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (15%)
  • Lack of communication (12%)
Review Analysis
Mammoth Moving & Storage, Inc. has 169 customer feedback entries, with 90% being positive. Customers praise the company for its professional and friendly staff, efficient service, and careful handling of items. However, some customers reported issues with unexpected charges and delays. Overall, Mammoth stands out in the moving industry for its commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a preferred choice for many.
Get a Quote (805) 968-8643

Company Info

State license #: 0173549

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 2645059


Mammoth Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Santa Barbara, CA, has been a trusted local residential moving service since 1990. With a stellar reputation backed by over 100 combined reviews on Yelp and Google averaging above 4.4 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among nearby moving companies. They offer comprehensive moving solutions, including packing and unpacking services, and are capable of handling complex items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Unlike some competitors, Mammoth Moving & Storage, Inc. doesn't require a deposit and accepts credit cards, making them a convenient and reliable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Visit our best movers in Santa Barbara page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews. And if you’re moving outside of Santa Barbara, consider one of Santa Barbara’s top long-distance movers.

Moving costs in other nearby California cities

Average cost of PODS in Santa Barbara, CA

PODS will cost $220–$7,448, on average, in Santa Barbara. The exact PODS cost you’ll pay will depend on whether you use an eight-, 12-, or 16-foot container (note: 12-foot containers are only available for local moves). The distance of your move will also greatly impact cost.

A local Santa Barbara move within 50 miles of your home will run between $220 and $813, while long-distance moves (100-250 miles) will typically cost $250–$2,107. Container pricing on cross-country moves from Santa Barbara can cost an average range of $2,068–$7,448.

Here's a breakdown of related PODS costs:

  • Storage fee: $149–$359 (first 30 days is free)
  • Damage coverage: 10–$439.95 per month, depending on the protection plan. Coverage ranges from container-only (no contents protection) to $300,000. All plans have a deductible of $100.
  • Door lock (if necessary): $25 (if purchased through PODS; you can also purchase from home improvement stores or online retailers)

If you’re looking for the cost-savings of a DIY move and the convenience of full-service movers, moving containers like PODS are a great option. You’ll handle loading and unloading, but they will drop off your empty container at your current home, pick it up once it’s loaded, and deliver it to your new location. This means you won’t have to worry about driving.

PODS is our overall top pick for moving containers in Phoenix based on their stellar reputation, nationwide availability, and multiple container sizes and insurance plans. But you should take a look at least two other highly rated moving container companies on our list to see which one offers the right combination of services and pricing for your move.

Best moving containers in Santa Barbara, CA

The best Santa Barbara moving container companies provide multiple container sizes, pricing transparency and deals, and secure, state-of-the-art facilities for longer-term storage needs. They should also have a solid reputation for quality customer service and efficient drop-off and pickup of containers.

Check out these highly rated moving containers:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in Santa Barbara, CA

You'll definitely have to break a sweat, but moving truck rentals in Santa Barbara will be much easier on your wallet than full-service movers. The average cost to rent a moving truck in Santa Barbara ranges from $19-$39 per day.

While cheaper than full-service moving companies, you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading them on the truck, hauling them to your new spot, and unloading everything there.

Here are the typical costs of Santa Barbara rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19–$39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $0.79–$1.09 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20–$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you drive the truck
  • How long you have the truck rental
  • Additional insurance
  • Parking
  • Toll fees
  • Fuel
  • Accommodations and dining
  • Moving equipment rentals

Best moving truck rentals in Santa Barbara, CA

The best moving truck rentals in Santa Barbara provide affordable rates with no hidden fees, a variety of truck sizes, and plenty of physical locations across the U.S. for convenient rental returns.

These top moving truck rentals certainly fit the bill:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517
Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
  • Round-trip and one-way moves available
  • User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
read our full review
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Average cost of labor-only moving companies in Santa Barbara, CA

The average cost of labor-only moving companies in Santa Barbara is an hourly rate of $50 for each crew member. Most moves — even small one-bedroom apartments — require a crew of two movers, so plan on about $100.0 per hour to hire labor assistance in Santa Barbara.

Best labor-only moving companies in Santa Barbara

The best Santa Barbara labor-only movers have a reputation for professional and efficient service, but also provide reasonable hourly rates and a variety of optional services like packing that you can pick and choose from to create a customized plan suited to your specific needs.

We like these top-notch labor-only movers:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Santa Barbara, CA

The biggest factor that affects the cost of movers in Santa Barbara, CA, is distance, but there are several other price considerations to keep in mind, including:

  • The size of your move: The more belongings you have, the more your move will cost. Moving a four-bedroom home will typically be more expensive than moving a studio apartment.
  • When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May–September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
  • The type of move: Professional movers are the most convenient option, but they will cost you more than going with a DIY option like moving container companies or moving truck rentals.
  • Any add-on services you select: Even if you go with a DIY move, you may want to hire third-party movers to assist you with loading and unloading. And professional movers offer a variety of optional services like packing and unpacking to help customize and streamline your relocation. But these additional services will come at an extra cost.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Have important documentation. Places like high rises and managed apartments will often require a copy of your mover's insurance and elevator reservation on moving day.
  • Get approval. Check ahead with any neighborhood, community, or HOA rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Secure a parking permit (if needed). The Residential Permit Parking Program manages parking in mixed-use areas by restricting non-resident vehicles to encourage turnover. Residents in designated areas may be eligible for parking permits exempting them from these restrictions.
  • Check state licensing laws. When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice.
  • Invest in moving insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.

Work with your movers to ensure all these items are taken care of before moving day.

Helpful Santa Barbara resources

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