Best California to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunny beaches of California to Washington's lush greenery marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new adventures and opportunities. As you say goodbye to the Golden State's year-round sunshine and hello to the Evergreen State's breathtaking landscapes, remember the cultural shifts and varied climates that await. To ensure a smooth transition in this considerable journey, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, where we use an unbiased algorithm to help you find the best movers for your interstate adventure.
Best California to Washington Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Pure Moving | 9.64 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Best California Movers | 9.52 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| First Due Movers | 9.26 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to California guide.
6 Best CA to WA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
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
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
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
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
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.
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 Washington
Moving from one state to another can be a monumental decision that encompasses a wide range of factors from climate to cost of living. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from California to Washington state . By laying out the cons of California living against the pros of setting down roots in Washington, and vice versa, you'll gain insight into what this relocation journey might mean for you.
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- State income tax
- Extreme droughts
Washington- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- No state income tax
- Plentiful rainfall
Washington- Smaller job market
- Less variety
- More cloudy days
- Less accessible beaches
California- Vibrant job market
- Diverse cuisine
- Year-round sun
- Beautiful beaches
When considering the move from California to Washington, it's essential to factor in how these differences will affect your daily life. For instance, Washington's more affordable housing market means you might be able to find a spacious home in a pleasant neighborhood like Bellevue or Redmond without breaking the bank. Although you might miss the diverse food scene of California's cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco, Seattle's culinary landscape is burgeoning with Pike Place Market's fresh seafood and a growing array of international restaurants. Despite seeing fewer sunny days, Washington offers lush, green parks like Green Lake Park for outdoor activities. And while you may have to travel farther to enjoy the coast compared to California, destinations like Olympic National Park's rugged shoreline provide a breathtaking alternative. This move may mean embracing change, but it could be a refreshing start in a state known for its natural beauty and welcoming communities.
California vs. Washington Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Washington to give you a taste of the unique flavors and food scene you'll encounter as you make your move. Understanding local cuisine is crucial since food is a vibrant part of local culture and life. Here's what you need to know to whet your appetite and help you transition more smoothly.
| California | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip BBQ | Geoduck |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Teriyaki |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In California, the local cuisine is shaped by its diverse culture and abundant local produce. Fish tacos and tri-tip BBQ are staples, reflecting the state's coastal location and love for grilling. Over in Washington, the presence of the Pacific Ocean is unmistakable with salmon and geoduck taking center stage. In Seattle, you'll find a vibrant street food scene with a wide array of international flavors, but teriyaki stands out as a local favorite. For those moving to California, the streets of Los Angeles and San Francisco offer an endless culinary adventure, from iconic taco trucks to high-end dining experiences like The French Laundry in the Napa Valley. Washington's food scene, with establishments like Canlis offering breathtaking views alongside meticulously crafted meals, showcases the Pacific Northwest's rich bounty. Both states boast a high health and fitness conscience, making it easy for newcomers to maintain a healthy lifestyle with an abundance of fresh produce and vegan options.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison focuses on how housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and livability between California and Washington stack up, providing insight into your new living environment.
| Comparison | California | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Northwest Craftsman, Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean Views, Solar Panels | Energy Efficiency, Natural Scenery |
While California offers iconic ocean views and a penchant for modern and Spanish Colonial architecture, Washington counters with its lush, natural scenery and a preference for Northwest Craftsman and contemporary homes. The trend toward energy efficiency in Washington reflects its environmental consciousness, a contrast to California's focus on solar panels and sustainable living. Housing costs, notably both median home prices and rents, are generally higher in California, attributing to its sprawling urban centers and desirability among various demographics. The information provided underscores the differences in lifestyle and priorities between these two Pacific states, making it easier for you to envision your life in either location.
California vs. Washington Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather will compare is crucial when moving from California to Washington. This comparison will shed light on differences you should anticipate in terms of weather patterns, humidity levels, and potential for natural disasters between California and Washington, helping you adjust to your new environment more efficiently.
California
Washington
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
Washington
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
Washington
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
Washington
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Volcanoes, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While California boasts more days of sunshine and milder winters, Washington offers lush, rain-enriched landscapes that can significantly differ from the arid California climate, particularly in areas away from the coast. Notably, Washington's higher humidity and frequent rainfall support a diverse ecosystem that is less common in much of California. Additionally, the air quality in Washington tends to be better, attributed partly to its lesser urban sprawl and industrial activity compared to California. The change in airborne allergens and the adjustment to fewer sunny days are factors you should prepare for, ensuring a smoother transition to Washington's distinct four-season climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Washington
When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison will help you grasp the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between California and Washington, allowing you to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | California | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $91,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 104.1 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 0.93 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.56 | 9.17 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture |
| Affluence | High | Moderately High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
While the average household income in Washington is slightly higher than in California, the significant differences lie in the states' cost of living and tax policies. Washington's lack of state income tax can be particularly appealing, offering a financial incentive over California's steep progressive tax. Additionally, Washington's more moderate cost of living index suggests your dollar might stretch further here, despite a slightly higher average sales tax rate. These factors, combined with the emerging industries and lower homelessness rates, provide a nuanced financial landscape for anyone considering making the move north.
California vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from California to Washington, understanding the comparison of the politics between California & Washington will give you a glimpse into the ideological landscape of your new home. This quick overview will also touch upon the religious makeup of both states, offering insights into the community you'll be joining.
| California | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal, with a strong Democratic presence | Liberal, especially in urban areas with a mix in rural locations |
| Local Politics | Focus on environmental policies, social issues | Progressive with a strong emphasis on tech and environmental sustainability |
| Religion | Diverse; Christianity largest, followed by non-affiliated, other faiths | Primarily Christian, but a significant non-affiliated and other religions presence |
The political and religious landscapes of California and Washington share similarities but also have their unique differences. Both states lean liberal, particularly in urban areas, but Washington tends to have a more noticeable mix of ideologies in its rural regions. Local politics in Washington has a notable emphasis on technology and environmental sustainability, reflecting the state's leading role in these sectors. Religiously, both states exhibit diversity with Christianity being predominant, yet they also have a considerable portion of the population identifying with no religion, showcasing the region's acceptance of varied beliefs. This information serves as a starting point in appreciating the social and cultural nuances you will encounter in your new home.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Washington
To make an informed decision when moving, it's crucial to understand how educational options compare between your current and future homes. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Washington . We aim to make your move as smooth as possible by preparing you for the educational differences you might encounter.
| California | Washington |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UCLA UC Berkeley USCUniversity of Washington Washington State University Seattle University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Point Vicente Elementary Rancho Santa Margarita Donlon Elementary Pleasanton Mill Creek Elementary VisaliaMedina Elementary Medina Cascadia Elementary Seattle Bryant Elementary Seattle | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Carmel Valley Middle San Diego Foothills Middle Walnut South Pasadena Middle South PasadenaInternational School Bellevue Odle Middle Bellevue Washington Middle Seattle | |
Top 3 High Schools Henry M. Gunn High Palo Alto California Academy of Mathematics and Science Carson Troy High FullertonInternational School Bellevue Newport High Bellevue Inglemoor High Kenmore | |
Top 3 private high schools Harvard-Westlake Studio City The Harker School San Jose Webb Schools ClaremontLakeside School Seattle The Overlake School Redmond Charles Wright Academy Tacoma | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Athenian School Danville Crossroads School Santa Monica Vistamar School El SegundoThe Bear Creek School Redmond Eastside Preparatory School Kirkland Annie Wright Schools Tacoma | |
Top 3 School Districts Palo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District La Cañada Unified School DistrictMercer Island School District Bellevue School District Lake Washington School District | |
In comparing the educational landscapes of California and Washington, distinct nuances become apparent. For instance, California's top colleges, like UCLA and UC Berkeley, are renowned worldwide and significantly influence where the state's high school seniors aspire to enroll. Similarly, Washington boasts prestigious institutions such as the University of Washington, making it a prime destination for higher education. On the K-12 front, both states exhibit a strong emphasis on quality education with top-ranked schools like Point Vicente Elementary in California and Medina Elementary in Washington, demonstrating their commitment to early childhood education. Moreover, private education options, such as Harvard-Westlake in California and Lakeside School in Washington, offer rigorous academic programs that cater to diverse student needs. Understanding these differences is paramount for families considering a move, ensuring they align their choices with their educational values and expectations.
Popular California to Washington Moving Routes
- Los Angeles to Seattle
- Los Angeles to Spokane
- Los Angeles to Tacoma
- Los Angeles to Vancouver
- San Diego to Seattle
- San Diego to Spokane
- San Diego to Tacoma
- San Diego to Vancouver
- San Jose to Seattle
- San Jose to Spokane
- San Jose to Tacoma
- San Jose to Vancouver
- San Francisco to Seattle
- San Francisco to Spokane
- San Francisco to Tacoma
- San Francisco to Vancouver
- Fresno to Seattle
- Fresno to Spokane
- Fresno to Tacoma
- Fresno to Vancouver
- Sacramento to Seattle
- Sacramento to Spokane
- Sacramento to Tacoma
- Sacramento to Vancouver
- Long Beach to Seattle
- Long Beach to Spokane
- Long Beach to Tacoma
- Long Beach to Vancouver
- Oakland to Seattle
- Oakland to Spokane
- Oakland to Tacoma
- Oakland to Vancouver
- Bakersfield to Seattle
- Bakersfield to Spokane
- Bakersfield to Tacoma
- Bakersfield to Vancouver
- Anaheim to Seattle
- Anaheim to Spokane
- Anaheim to Tacoma
- Anaheim to Vancouver
- Santa Ana to Seattle
- Santa Ana to Spokane
- Santa Ana to Tacoma
- Santa Ana to Vancouver
- Riverside to Seattle
- Riverside to Spokane
- Riverside to Tacoma
- Riverside to Vancouver
- Stockton to Seattle
- Stockton to Spokane
- Stockton to Tacoma
- Stockton to Vancouver
- Irvine to Seattle
- Irvine to Spokane
- Irvine to Tacoma
- Irvine to Vancouver
- Chula Vista to Seattle
- Chula Vista to Spokane
- Chula Vista to Tacoma
- Chula Vista to Vancouver
- Fremont to Seattle
- Fremont to Spokane
- San Bernardino to Seattle
- Modesto to Seattle
- Fontana to Seattle
- Moreno Valley to Seattle
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
