Best California to Tennessee Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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CA to TN Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life. California, with its sun-kissed beaches and the allure of the entertainment world, and Tennessee, known affectionately as the Volunteer State with its rich musical heritage and inviting southern hospitality, each offer unique experiences. Yet, the key to a stress-free transition lies in entrusting your move to professional movers who prioritize reliability and excellence, ensuring your journey from the Golden State to the heart of the South is smooth and efficient.

California iconArrow iconTennessee icon

Best California to Tennessee 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
Alpha Moving & Storage LLC9.40A+Authorized For HHGContact
Boundless Moving & Storage9.33A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tennessee to California guide.

6 Best CA to TN 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 12/5/2024)

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 12/5/2024)

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 12/5/2024)

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 12/6/2024)

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
Alpha Moving & Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional9.40/10
based on 845+ data points

About Alpha Moving & Storage LLC

You can’t trust just anyone with your household belongings. That’s where Alpha Moving & Storage comes in. This company, founded in 2018,...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Short-Term Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3378094 / 1193307

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers re...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
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 Tennessee

Moving can be a whirlwind of decisions, especially when considering leaving the familiar behind for new prospects. To aid in decision-making, we present an unbiased comparison, diving into California to Tennessee relocation . Through these charts, we'll shed light on both the desirable and less appealing aspects of this transition, ensuring you have a comprehensive view of your potential new life.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • State income tax
  • Earthquake risk
Tennessee iconTennessee
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • No state income tax
  • Safe from earthquakes
Tennessee iconTennessee
  • No beaches
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller tech industry
  • Humid summers
California iconCalifornia
  • Beach access
  • Diverse culture
  • Innovative tech scene
  • Mild winters

When moving from the bustling streets of Los Angeles or San Francisco to the serene landscapes of Tennessee, you'll immediately notice the change in your living expenses. Tennessee's lower cost of living means that dining out in popular local establishments like Husk Nashville or investing in a spacious home in areas such as Franklin becomes more attainable. You might miss the vibrant diversity of California's cities, yet cities like Nashville and Chattanooga offer a growing cultural scene rich in music, arts, and a unique blend of cuisines. The contrast in landscapes is quite striking too, with the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains offering a different charm compared to California's beaches. However, you'll find that the warmth of smaller communities and the absence of state income tax in Tennessee can present a refreshing change from California's intense hustle and high tax rates.

California vs. Tennessee Food Guide

Food is an integral aspect of local culture and gives a sense of what it's like to live in a region. In this guide, we will provide a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Tennessee to help you understand the diverse culinary landscapes you'll be stepping into.

CaliforniaTennessee
Most iconic local food itemSushiBarbecue Ribs
Most popular meat dishTacoHot Chicken
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Mama J's Barn & Grill
  • Hot Chicken Palace
  • Southern Comfort Dine
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In California, the culinary scene is diverse, embracing innovation with a health-conscious approach. L.A.'s street food, particularly its famed food truck tacos, offers a taste of the cultural melting pot that defines the state. Cities like San Francisco are known for their sushi restaurants, like Sushi World, which reflect the state's significant Asian influence and coastal access to fresh seafood. On the other end, Tennessee's culinary heritage is deeply rooted in comfort and tradition. Nashville, for instance, is world-renowned for its hot chicken, a fiery take on southern fried chicken, with establishments like Hot Chicken Palace standing as city landmarks. Barbecue, particularly in Memphis, with spots like Mama J's Barn & Grill, demonstrates the state's mastery in smoking and seasoning meats. Both states offer rich culinary experiences indicative of their unique cultural compositions.

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California vs. Tennessee Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate stands as a crucial element when considering a relocation. Understanding how the housing markets in California and Tennessee stack up against each other provides valuable insight. This comparison aims to shed light on costs, statistics, architectural styles, and the overall livability of each state, aiding in your decision-making process.

ComparisonCaliforniaTennessee
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish, ModernTraditional, Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean views, sustainabilitySpacious yards, family-friendly neighborhoods

In the realm of housing, the contrast between California and Tennessee is quite stark, especially when it comes to cost and architectural styles. California's housing market is notoriously expensive, often featuring homes with modern and Spanish influences, geared towards a more urban and eco-conscious buyer. Meanwhile, Tennessee offers more traditional homes at a significantly lower price point, appealing particularly to those looking for spacious yards and a family-friendly atmosphere. The difference in median monthly rent—nearly half in Tennessee compared to California—highlights the broader affordability Tennessee presents. However, those moving from California might miss the higher walkability and bikeability scores prevalent in California's cities. This trade-off between cost and lifestyle is a key consideration for anyone contemplating this move.

California vs. Tennessee Weather Considerations

When planning a move from California to Tennessee, understanding how the weather varies between these locations is crucial to preparing for your new environment. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in seasonal weather, humidity, sunshine, and more that you'll experience after your move.

Summer icon
85°F/60°F

California

90°F/70°F

Tennessee

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
60°F/45°F

California

50°F/30°F

Tennessee

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22 inches

California

54 inches

Tennessee

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
2 inches

California

6 inches

Tennessee

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCaliforniaTennessee
Air QualityVaries widely; major cities have poor airGenerally good, urban areas can be moderate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Tennessee shares a warm atmosphere with California, the seasonal variations and humidity levels mark a clear distinction. Tennessee summers are not only warmer but also significantly more humid, which can affect outdoor activities and overall comfort. Additionally, while California battles wildfires and earthquakes, Tennessee's weather threats include tornadoes and floods, requiring new residents to adapt to different emergency preparedness measures. Moving from the sunny, dry climate of California to the more humid and varied Tennessee seasons requires adjusting not just your wardrobe but also your home maintenance and health considerations for air quality and seasonal allergies.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, comparing California to Tennessee in terms of financial and economic factors is crucial. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and employment opportunities will change can help you make an informed decision and prepare for your new life.

ComparisonCaliforniaTennessee
Avg. Household Income$91,551$65,254
Cost of Living Index136.488.9
State Income Tax1-13.30
Avg. Property Tax0.730.68
Avg. Sales Tax8.569.55
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Entertainment, AgricultureHealthcare, Manufacturing, Entertainment
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateModerate to High
HomelessnessHighLower than CA

The key differences between California and Tennessee can significantly impact your finances after the move. California's average household income is notably higher, but so is the cost of living, driven largely by housing costs. Tennessee offers a more affordable lifestyle, highlighted by its absence of state income tax, which can result in more disposable income. While California boasts a strong technology and entertainment industry, Tennessee's growing healthcare and manufacturing sectors offer diverse employment opportunities. This transition could provide financial relief and a different quality of life, depending on your profession and lifestyle preferences.

California vs. Tennessee Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between California & Tennessee aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of each state, offering insight into the communities you're moving from and to.

CaliforniaTennessee
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticPrimarily Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive policies; focus on environmental and social issuesConservative policies; emphasis on fiscal restraint and traditional values
ReligionMore religiously diverse; higher number of unaffiliated individualsMore religious homogeneity; predominantly Christian

In moving from California to Tennessee, you'll experience a shift from a state known for its politically progressive stance to one where conservative values are often at the forefront. California's vibrant diversity in religious beliefs contrasts with Tennessee's strong Christian community, represented by various churches such as the Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis. These differences are reflected not just in the voting booth but in local policies and community values. The change can be refreshing and offers an opportunity to immerse in a distinct cultural ethos.

Education Guide When Moving from California to Tennessee

Moving from California to Tennessee brings a lot of changes, especially when it comes to your children's education. Comparing the schools and education options between these states will help you understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Tennessee . This guide is aimed at giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in each state.

CaliforniaTennessee

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of California
Stanford University
California State University
University of Tennessee
Vanderbilt University
Tennessee State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Reed Elementary (San Jose)
El Marino Elementary (Culver City)
Bowman International School (Palo Alto)
Lakeland Elementary (Lakeland)
Discovery School (Murfreesboro)
Farragut Primary (Knoxville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley)
Redwood Middle (Saratoga)
Hopkins Junior High (Fremont)
Brentwood Middle (Brentwood)
Meigs Middle Magnet (Nashville)
Page Middle (Franklin)

Top 3 High Schools

Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto)
Monta Vista High (Cupertino)
California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)
Hume-Fogg Academic (Nashville)
Central Magnet School (Murfreesboro)
Brentwood High (Brentwood)

Top 3 private high schools

Harvard-Westlake (Studio City)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Stanford Online High School (Stanford)
Baylor School (Chattanooga)
McCallie School (Chattanooga)
Montgomery Bell Academy (Nashville)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
Crossroads School (Santa Monica)
San Domenico School (San Anselmo)
Baylor School (Chattanooga)
Harpeth Hall School (Nashville)
University School of Nashville (Nashville)

Top 3 School Districts

Palo Alto Unified
San Marino Unified
La Cañada Unified
Williamson County Schools
Maryville City Schools
Oak Ridge School District

When diving into the specifics, California's education system is known for its strong emphasis on technology and innovation, thanks to its proximity to Silicon Valley. Schools like Henry M. Gunn High and Monta Vista High are standouts for STEM education. In Tennessee, the focus on comprehensive education is evident through programs in schools like Hume-Fogg Academic and Central Magnet School, emphasizing a well-rounded curriculum. Private education also offers distinct choices in both states, with California's Stanford Online High School providing a rigorous online program, while Tennessee's Baylor School focuses on building strong community ties alongside academic excellence. These differences highlight the diverse educational landscapes and opportunities available, ensuring that whether you're in California or Tennessee, there are quality options for your children’s education.

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