Best Movers from California to Michigan (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When planning a move from California to Michigan, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,744 to $9,517. Most relocations will take about seven–18 days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.
|
|
|
 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
|
Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Michigan to California guide.
Our track record
The best California to Michigan full-service movers
Planning a move from California to Michigan? With countless moving companies to choose from, finding the right interstate mover can be tough. We’ve made it easier by researching and handpicking the best options based on detailed reviews, upfront pricing, and exceptional services.
Start your journey from California to Michigan with these top-rated long-distance movers serving California.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in California
Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in California based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
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 around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Lack of communication
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Inaccurate estimates
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 0189688
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1095485
Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best California to Michigan moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in California and delivering it to your new place in Michigan.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
|
|
|
|
The best California to Michigan moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from California to Michigan, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
|
|
|
|
The best California to Michigan labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from California to Michigan, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
|
|
|
|
How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to MI move
How much does it cost to move from California to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Michigan. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,593 - $6,531 | $1,563 - $4,162 | $1,645 - $3,085 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,333 - $9,517 | $2,948 - $5,589 | $1,744 - $3,982 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,821 - $14,870 | $4,016 - $7,826 | $2,341 - $4,644 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,404 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from California to Michigan
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Michigan, you can expect to spend between $1,593 and $6,531. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,333 to $9,517 on the same route (CA to MI). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Michigan typically runs between $8,821 and $14,870.
Cost of moving containers from California to Michigan
If you’re relocating from California to Michigan, you’ll typically spend between $1,563 and $4,162 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,948 up to $5,589. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $4,016 and $7,826. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Michigan
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,645 to $3,085. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,744 to $3,982, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from California to Michigan costs around $2,341 to $4,644.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to MI
Several factors influence the cost of moving from California to Michigan. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from CA to MI
If you’re moving to Michigan from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: California vs. Michigan
Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in California and Michigan. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:
| California | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,037 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $68,505 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.7% |
| Average Sales Tax | 8.68% | 6.0% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 4.25% |
- You’ll pay about 44% less in rent in Michigan compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Here’s some good news for your wallet—home prices in Michigan are about 68% lower than in California. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
- Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Michigan are about 25% lower than in California.
- Moving to Michigan costs about 31% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
- With an unemployment rate about 13% lower than California, Michigan boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
- Sales tax in Michigan is 31% lower than in California. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Michigan could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
- Income taxes in Michigan are 68% lower than in California. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Michigan vs. California
Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in Michigan compared to California across a few key lifestyle factors:
| Michigan | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,037,261 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49.7-48.3 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 14ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 34" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 64" | 7" |
| Crime index | 19.98 | 28.43 |
- The population of Michigan is approximately 74% lower than the population of California. Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
- In the last presidential election, Michigan voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Michigan is 81ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF. Moving to a cooler summer climate can bring relief from extreme heat, lower energy bills, and make it more comfortable outdoors, an appealing choice for those who value comfort and outdoor accessibility.
- During the coldest part of the year, Michigan reaches about 14ºF and California only gets down to 59ºF. Moving to Michigan with its colder winters means you need to prepare for higher heating costs, possible lifestyle shifts, and more intense weather, but it can also offer unique seasonal experiences and beauty.
- You can expect about 34 inches of annual rainfall in Michigan versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California. More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
- In Michigan, it snows about 64 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches of snow. With the additional snow you'll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
- Michigan has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 19.98 vs. 28.43. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it's not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Michigan
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Michigan compared to California.
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Scenic beauty |
| Pleasant weather | Good higher education |
| Abundant recreational options | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| High quality of life | Low cost of living |
| Fresh and healthy foods | Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Michigan
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from California to Michigan, keep these tips in mind.
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | Cold snowy winters |
| Heavy tax burdens | Spotty economic opportunity |
| Natural disasters | Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Terrible traffic | Expensive education |
| Strange laws | Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your California to Michigan move
- Weather: Michigan has a continental climate, although there are two distinct regions. The southern and central parts of the Lower Peninsula (south of Saginaw Bay and from the Grand Rapids area southward) have a warmer climate with hot summers and cold winters. The northern part of the Lower Peninsula and the entire Upper Peninsula has a more severe climate (Köppen Dfb), with warm, but shorter summers and longer, cold to very cold winters. Some parts of the state average high temperatures below freezing from December through February, and into early March in the far northern parts. During the winter through the middle of February, the state is frequently subjected to heavy lake-effect snow. The state averages 30 days of thunderstorm activity per year. These can be severe, especially in the southern part of the state. The state averages 17 tornadoes per year, which are more common in the state's extreme southern section.
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Michigan, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Michigan right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Michigan
Get ready to discover all that Michigan has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports Teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
