Factors that influence moving costs from Buffalo to Los Angelestoggle

The cost of Buffalo movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Buffalo to Los Angeles might cost as little as $1,387, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,973.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Buffalo, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,705 to $4,571. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Buffalo to Los Angeles

Moving from Buffalo to Los Angeles comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Los Angeles is generally more expensive than Buffalo, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Buffalo Los Angeles
Average rent cost $1,200 $2,960
Average home value $213,418 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $63,443 $74,993
Cost of living (single person) $2,589 $3,922
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,720 $9,213
Unemployment rate 9.5% 10.6%
Sales tax 8.75% 9.5%
State income tax 10.9% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Los Angeles are 147% higher than in Buffalo, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Buffalo.
    Home prices in Los Angeles are 1,009.6% higher than in Buffalo.
  • Income in Los Angeles is 18.2% higher than in Buffalo, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Los Angeles include County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School District, and City of Los Angeles (including DWP).
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Los Angeles, since the cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 51.5% higher than in Buffalo. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Los Angeles, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 61.1% higher than in Buffalo.
  • The unemployment rate in Los Angeles is 11.58% higher than in Buffalo.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Los Angeles, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Los Angeles are 8.57% higher than in Buffalo.
  • State income taxes in Los Angeles are 22.02% higher than in Buffalo.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,544.61 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Buffalo.

How life is different in Buffalo vs. Los Angeles

Los Angeles Buffalo
Population 3,820,914 278,349
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 7
Walkability score 69 67
Bike friendliness score 59 63
Crime Index 53.81 8.0
Safety Index 46.19 53.55
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • Los Angeles's population is about 1,273% greater than Buffalo.
  • Los Angeles's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Buffalo's lower score of 7.
  • Los Angeles and Buffalo are similarily walkable.
  • Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Buffalo, which has a score of 63 out of 100.
  • Los Angeles's crime rate is higher than Buffalo with a score of 53.81 compared to Buffalo's 8.0. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
  • Los Angeles is considered to be less safe than Buffalo with a score of 46.19 vs Buffalo's 53.55.
  • Air quality in Los Angeles is moderate, and in Buffalo it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Buffalo vs. Los Angeles move

  • Weather: The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a โ€œT Numberโ€ 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in California, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toLos Angeles Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.Opt for Released Value Protection โ€“ 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.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "City of Angels" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

Things to do in Los Angeles

After settling into your new California home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Los Angeles has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Los Angeles is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, Battleship USS Iowa Museum, and The Broad.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo Park โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), Los Angeles FC (MLS), or Los Angeles Kings (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Buffalo to Los Angeles?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Buffalo to Los Angeles. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Buffalo.

When is the cheapest time to move from Buffalo to Los Angeles?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Buffalo to Los Angeles, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Buffalo to Los Angeles take?

The 2,537-mile journey from Buffalo, NY to Los Angeles, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Buffalo offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Los Angeles.

Helpful moving resources