Best California to Maine Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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CA to ME Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state isn't just a relocation; it's an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life. Transitioning from California's sun-soaked beaches and bustling tech hubs to Maine's rugged coastlines, quaint towns, and the embrace of the tranquil Pine Tree State signals a monumental shift in scenery and pace. Recognizing the complexity this long distance adventure entails, the importance of entrusting your journey to professional, reliable movers cannot be overstated. With Great Guys Moving, you're assured that only the best, meticulously vetted movers make the cut to safeguard your move.

California iconArrow iconMaine icon

Best California to Maine Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.9.63NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Best California Movers9.52A+Authorized For HHGContact
SC Moving Services9.19NRActiveContact
Vacationland Moving9.03NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Maine to California guide.

6 Best CA to ME Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,645+ data points

About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving back to the community....Read More >>

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3421940 / 1416634

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Best California Movers Logo
Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

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. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
SC Moving Services Logo
Exceptional9.19/10
based on 644+ data points

About SC Moving Services

SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern Maine, G...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2324405 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2016)
View Full Review
5
Vacationland Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.03/10
based on 288+ data points

About Vacationland Moving

Vacationland Moving is a relocation specialist company based in Portland, Maine. Their services, which are considered some of the finest mov...Read More >>

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3540196 / 1181718

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2024)
View Full Review
6
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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 California to Maine

Moving states is a significant decision influenced by various factors. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from California to Maine, mapping out the potential benefits and drawbacks. By contrasting the highs and lows, these charts serve to illuminate the multifaceted nature of such a transition.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Wildfire risks
  • Urban crowding
Maine iconMaine
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Cleaner air
  • More open space
Maine iconMaine
  • Colder climate
  • Less urban
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer tech jobs
California iconCalifornia
  • Warm beaches
  • Vibrant cities
  • Diverse culture
  • Tech job hub

When considering a move from California's bustling urban life with its numerous beaches such as Venice Beach and tech hubs like Silicon Valley, to Maine's serene landscapes, it's essential to weigh these factors carefully. Maine's allure isn't just in its lower living costs or scenic beauty, including the remarkable Acadia National Park, but also in its less congested living spaces, offering a break from California's often crowded cities. However, it's also crucial to consider the change in climate, as Maine's colder weather and heavy snowfalls contrast sharply with California's sunny days. Moreover, the more laid-back lifestyle in Maine's charming towns and vibrant cities like Portland is a significant shift from the fast-paced lifestyle in California's urban centers.

California vs. Maine Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Maine, showcasing the distinctive food scenes of both states. Understanding the culinary differences is key to appreciating the unique cultural fabric of where you might be moving to, allowing for a smoother transition into your new local lifestyle.

CaliforniaMaine
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosLobster Roll
Most popular meat dishTri-tipLobster Stew
Most popular street food itemTacosItalian Sandwich
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastBlueberry Smoothie
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The French Laundry
  • Animal
  • Lovers Seafood and Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In exploring California, you'll find the food scene incredibly diverse with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are known for their vibrant street food culture, offering a plethora of options from gourmet tacos to innovative vegan dishes like the immensely popular avocado toast. The health and fitness culture in California highly influence its cuisine, making it easy to find health-conscious and vegan options. On the other hand, Maine's culinary landscape is deeply rooted in its access to fresh seafood, with lobster playing a starring role in both casual and fine dining. Iconic spots like Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland offer a modern twist on classic New England seafood, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast, emphasizing the local flavors and traditional dishes that define Maine's food scene.

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California vs. Maine Real Estate & Living Facts


Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the two states compare can help you make an informed decision. In this comparison, we'll explore the housing costs, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle in California vs. Maine, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.

ComparisonCaliforniaMaine
Typical Architecture StyleModern, MediterraneanColonial, Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOutdoor living spaces, accessibilityPrivacy, proximity to nature


Home prices and living costs are significantly higher in California compared to Maine, reflecting the desirability of locations and the higher living standards. California's architecture often includes modern and Mediterranean styles, catering to its warmer climate and urban lifestyle. In contrast, Maine's homes reflect its colonial history and proximity to nature, with styles like Colonial and Cape Cod being prevalent. The emphasis on outdoor living spaces in California contrasts with Maine's value on privacy and nature, showcasing the different lifestyles each state offers. Walkability and bikeability are generally higher in California's urban areas, though Maine's smaller towns and rural settings offer a unique charm not found in busier locales.

California vs. Maine Weather Considerations

Understanding how the weather compares between California and Maine is essential when planning your move. This comparison will help you prepare for significant changes in climate, ensuring you know what to expect in your new home state.

Summer icon
85°F/57°F

California

79°F/59°F

Maine

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F/48°F

California

31°F/13°F

Maine

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22

California

43

Maine

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
7

California

75

Maine

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCaliforniaMaine
Air QualityVaries; often moderateGenerally good
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresBlizzards, Nor'easters
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from California to Maine, you'll experience a significant shift, especially in winter temperatures and snowfall. While California enjoys mild winters with minimal snow, Maine's winters are harsh, with heavy snowfall that affects travel and day-to-day life. Summers are pleasantly warm in both states, but Maine's high humidity levels during summer months can make the air feel stickier compared to California's generally dry heat. Planning for these changes can help you transition smoothly to Maine's distinct four-season climate.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Maine

When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to consider financial aspects that may affect your daily life. This comparison aims to enlighten you on how your expenses and income prospects could change. Emphasizing the need to understand the cost of living, tax implications, and income variations between California and Maine, this guide serves as an essential tool in financial planning for your relocation.

ComparisonCaliforniaMaine
Avg. Household Income$91,551$69,543
Cost of Living Index136.4116.5
State Income Tax1% - 13.3%5.8% - 7.15%
Avg. Property Tax0.73%1.36%
Avg. Sales Tax8.56%5.5%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Entertainment, AgricultureHealthcare, Retail, Tourism
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyHighLow
HomelessnessHighLow

Moving from California to Maine, you'll notice significant differences in economic factors that directly impact your pocket. For one, the average household income in California is considerably higher, which correlates with its higher cost of living and affluence level. Despite this, Maine offers a more balanced economic environment with lower living costs and taxes, making it easier on average incomes to afford a comfortable lifestyle. It's important to note that while California boasts a robust job market in technology and entertainment, Maine's leading industries such as healthcare and tourism offer unique employment opportunities. Additionally, the lower rates of poverty and homelessness in Maine reflect a contrasting social environment that could influence your experience in a new state.

California vs. Maine Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from California to Maine, it's essential to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between California & Maine, offering insight into the cultural and societal landscapes you'll encounter.

CaliforniaMaine
Political Make-upLiberal-DemocraticModerate with a blend of Democrats and Republicans
Local PoliticsProgressive urban centersLocally focused, community-based
ReligionDiverse religious landscapePredominantly Christian, with historical Protestant roots

While California is known for its progressive, liberal stance, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, Maine presents a more moderate political scene that values local governance and community input highly. The religious landscape also shifts as you move from the diverse, sprawling metros of California to the more historically Protestant fabric of Maine. This doesn't just change the Sunday morning scene; it can subtly influence community events, local holidays, and even the agendas of local school boards. Understanding these differences will help you adapt to and appreciate the unique cultural nuances of your new home.

Education Guide When Moving from California to Maine

The purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Maine. This will help you make a more informed decision regarding your child's education if you're considering a move from California to Maine.

CaliforniaMaine

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

UCLA
UC Berkeley
Stanford
University of Maine
Bates College
Bowdoin College

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Orion Alternative (Redwood City)
Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley)
Yu Ming Charter (Oakland)
Falmouth Elementary (Falmouth)
Yarmouth Elementary (Yarmouth)
Cape Elizabeth Schools (Cape Elizabeth)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Preuss School UCSD (La Jolla)
The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
Alice Fong Yu Alternative (San Francisco)
Falmouth Middle School (Falmouth)
Yarmouth Middle School (Yarmouth)
Brunswick Jr High School (Brunswick)

Top 3 High School Schools

California Academy of Mathematics & Science (Carson)
Oxford Academy (Cypress)
Whitney High (Cerritos)
Greely High School (Cumberland)
Cape Elizabeth High School (Cape Elizabeth)
Falmouth High School (Falmouth)

Top 3 private high schools

Harvard-Westlake (Los Angeles)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Webb Schools (Claremont)
Waynflete School (Portland)
Berwick Academy (South Berwick)
Hebron Academy (Hebron)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Harker School (San Jose)
Crossroads School (Santa Monica)
Polytechnic School (Pasadena)
North Yarmouth Academy (Yarmouth)
Waynflete School (Portland)
John Bapst Memorial High School (Bangor)

Top 3 School Districts

Palo Alto Unified
San Marino Unified
La Cañada Unified
Falmouth School Department
Cape Elizabeth School Department
Yarmouth Schools

Moving from California to Maine, you'll notice a distinct difference in both educational options and the local community's focus on education. For instance, California offers some of the nation's most prestigious universities and highly competitive private and public schools, such as UCLA and The Harker School in San Jose. Maine, while smaller in population, boasts exceptional educational opportunities with close-knit community vibes, exemplified by schools like the Waynflete School in Portland and the University of Maine. The top schools in each state not only reflect the states' commitments to high-quality education but also offer unique opportunities, from Maine's strong local community connections to California's access to cutting-edge technology and diverse cultural experiences. This contrast provides a rich tapestry of educational settings, tailored to a wide array of student interests and needs.

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