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California to Utah Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from one state to another marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind California's golden sunsets and laid-back lifestyle for Utah's majestic mountains and close-knit communities means embracing change and the possibilities that come with it. To ensure this important transition is as smooth as possible, it's essential to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, like our carefully vetted teams at Great Guys Moving, to handle your long-distance move with the expertise it deserves.

6 Best Movers for Moving from California to Utah

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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 >>

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#2
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,688+ data points

Santa Monica, CA
Residential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3207734 Verify

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 >>

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#3
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,645+ data points

Chico, CA
Local & Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/9/2024)

USDOT: 3421940 Verify

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 >>

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#4
Best California Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3489907 Verify

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 >>

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#5
801 Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 412+ data points

Millcreek, UT
Packing services, Long-distance moves, Local moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 4140953 Verify

About 801 Moving Company

801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this moving company offers a rang...Read More >>

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#6
Best of Utah Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,595+ data points

Jordan, UT
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Office moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 2920944 Verify

About Best of Utah Moving Company

Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured and has been operating ...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Utah

Moving from one state to another offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison between California and Utah aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Through examining the cons and pros, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits in your potential new home.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Higher taxes
  • Dense population
Utah iconUtah
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • Lower taxes
  • More open space
Utah iconUtah
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller cities
  • No beaches
  • Cold winters
California iconCalifornia
  • Diverse culture
  • Vibrant cities
  • Beach access
  • Year-round sun

When considering the move from California to Utah, the contrasts paint a vivid picture of change. While you might miss the endless beaches and multicultural vibrancy of cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, Utah counters with its own charm. You'll discover breathtaking natural landscapes, including the iconic national parks like Zion and Arches. The lower cost of living might also mean more opportunities to enjoy what Utah offers, such as dining at local gems like Log Haven in Salt Lake City or exploring unique sights in smaller cities like Provo. The transition from California’s bustling urban sprawl to Utah’s serene and open landscape offers the chance to experience the outdoors and community living in a whole new way.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from California to Utah

Understanding that food is an essential part of local culture and can significantly influence your living experience, we aim to help you navigate this aspect of your relocation. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Utah to give you a better sense of the food scene in both states.

CaliforniaUtah

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadFuneral Potatoes

Most popular meat dish

Tripas TacosUtah Scones with Honey Butter

Most popular street food item

Fish TacosFry Sauce with Fries

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastVegan Jambalaya

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

    1. Chez Panisse
    2. In-N-Out Burger
    3. The French Laundry
    1. Red Iguana
    2. Crown Burgers
    3. Log Haven

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

97

Abundance of Food Trucks

95

Foodie Scene

107

Vegan Friendly

108

When moving to Utah, you'll notice a significant shift in the local cuisine compared to California. In neighborhoods like Salt Lake City, the historic Red Iguana offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, famous for its moles, which may come as a delightful discovery for those accustomed to California's vibrant Mexican food scene. Meanwhile, Crown Burgers introduces you to the unique Utah culinary tradition of serving burgers with pastrami, a fusion that's hard to find outside the state. Utah's burgeoning vegan scene, with spots like Sage's Cafe and Vertical Diner, showcases the state's increasing adaptability to diverse dietary preferences, mirroring the diverse and health-conscious offerings you might be used to in California.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from California to Utah

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move, and understanding how California and Utah compare in this area can help make informed decisions. This comparison focuses on several key aspects such as cost, architecture, and the lifestyle each state offers.

When moving from California to Utah, you'll notice significant differences in the housing landscape. Utah offers a more affordable living with a median home price and rent considerably lower than California's. The architecture in Utah, primarily featuring Craftsman and Ranch styles, contrasts with California's Spanish and modern homes. Despite having slightly lower walkability and bikeability scores, Utah boasts stunning natural scenery, with many homes offering mountain views. If you're transitioning from an urban Californian lifestyle to Utah, you might find the urban lifestyle score lower. However, this is compensated by spacious yards and a closer connection to nature, making Utah an appealing option for many.

Weather Considerations for Moving from California to Utah

When planning a move from California to Utah, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison charts the weather variables between California and Utah to prepare you for what lies ahead. From the golden beaches to the snowy mountains, know what to anticipate in your new home.

Summer icon
85°F / 58°F

California

90°F / 62°F

Utah

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
60°F / 44°F

California

37°F / 20°F

Utah

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22 inches

California

20 inches

Utah

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6 inches (varies greatly by region)

California

54 inches

Utah

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving to Utah from California means preparing for colder winters and more snowfall, especially significant if you're not used to snowy conditions. Utah's summers are slightly hotter but with less humidity, making the heat more bearable. You'll experience fewer days of sunshine in Utah, which might take some adjustment if you're used to California's sunny sky. Also, be aware of the increased annual UV index in Utah; the sun might not shine as often, but when it does, it's stronger. Such changes affect not only your daily comfort but also your health and leisure activities, illustrating the importance of understanding these differences before your move.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding financial differences is vital. This comparison highlights the economic factors one must consider when transitioning from California to Utah. It explores key financial aspects to help anticipate changes in cost of living, taxes, and income prospects.

Moving from California to Utah, you'll find a significant difference in the cost of living, with Utah being notably more affordable. The average household income in Utah is slightly lower, but when adjusted for the cost of living, your dollar stretches further. The state income tax in Utah is a flat rate, which could be favorable or less so depending on your earnings bracket in California. Property and sales taxes are also lower in Utah, further contributing to the lower cost of living. While California boasts a high affluence level with thriving technology and entertainment industries, Utah offers a balanced economy with burgeoning technology and tourism sectors, making it an attractive option for many.

Political & Religious Comparison between California and Utah

This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the political and religious landscape you're moving into, comparing California & Utah . Whether you're curious about the local politics, overall political leanings, or predominant religious beliefs, this guide offers insight into what to expect in your new home state.

CaliforniaUtah

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticConservative/Republican

Local Politics

Diverse, with a strong focus on environmental and social issuesMore homogenous, with emphasis on economic growth and family values

Religion

Multicultural and diverse religious landscapePredominantly Latter-day Saints (Mormon)

When you move from California to Utah, you'll be transitioning from a state known for its liberal leanings to one with a conservative backbone. This shift is most evident in the political makeup and local politics, where Utah's policies often prioritize economic growth and espouse traditional family values, distinct from California's emphasis on environmental sustainability and progressive social policies. Moreover, religion plays a central role in Utah's cultural identity, predominantly represented by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, influencing many aspects of daily life and local governance in contrast to California's religiously diverse and multicultural ethos. Understanding these differences can help you adapt more easily to your new surroundings.

Education Guide When Moving from California to Utah

Moving between states can dramatically change your or your child's education trajectory. To aid in making an informed decision, we compare school options between California and Utah. This chart's purpose is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Utah.

CaliforniaUtah

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of California
Stanford University
California State University
University of Utah
Brigham Young University
Utah State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Orion Alternative (Redwood City)
Oxford Elementary (Berkeley)
Westwood Charter (Los Angeles)
Athenian Academy (Draper)
Oakridge Elementary (Salt Lake City)
Hawthorne Academy (Saratoga Springs)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley)
Pacific Collegiate (Santa Cruz)
The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
Centennial Middle (Provo)
Willowcreek Middle (Lehi)
South Jordan Middle (South Jordan)

Top 3 High Schools

Henry M. Gunn (Palo Alto)
Whitney High (Cerritos)
Lowell High (San Francisco)
Academy for Math Engineering & Science (Salt Lake City)
Northern Utah Academy for Math
Engineering & Science (Layton)
Timpview High (Provo)

Top 3 private high schools

The Webb Schools (Claremont)
Harvard-Westlake (Studio City)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Rowland Hall (Salt Lake City)
The Waterford School (Sandy)
Wasatch Academy (Mount Pleasant)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Crossroads School (Santa Monica)
The Athenian School (Danville)
The Archer School for Girls (Los Angeles)
The Madeleine Choir School (Salt Lake City)
Layton Christian Academy (Layton)
Rowland Hall (Salt Lake City)

Top 3 School Districts

San Francisco Unified
Los Angeles Unified
Palo Alto Unified
Park City School District
Davis School District
Canyons School District

When examining the education landscape between California and Utah, significant differences emerge, particularly in terms of opportunities and environments in both public and private education sectors. For instance, California's top universities such as Stanford and University of California draw students from all over the world, indicating a higher competition level for local students. Meanwhile, Utah's Brigham Young University and University of Utah offer robust programs especially appealing to local residents. Private education also highlights key distinctions; California's prestigious institutions like The Webb Schools and Harvard-Westlake have long histories of academic excellence, whereas Utah's Rowland Hall and The Waterford School emphasize a holistic education in smaller, community-focused environments. These distinctions underscore the importance of considering individual educational needs and values when moving between these states.

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