Moving from California to West Virginia?

6 Best CA to WV Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

CA to WV Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another marks the beginning of an exciting life adventure, filled with new opportunities and experiences. You're embarking on a journey from the Golden State, known for its sun-kissed beaches and bustling tech hubs, to the Mountain State, where rich history and breathtaking landscapes await. Understanding the significance of this transition, we emphasize the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth and stress-free move across the country.

California iconArrow iconWest Virginia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from West Virginia to California guide.

6 Best California to West Virginia Movers

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

#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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

top 3 san francisco 2024 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

top santa ana 2024 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa ana 2023 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa monica 2022 pure movers santa monica image
#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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

top chico 2024 murdocks moving hauling inc image
top 3 ranked movers in chico 2023 murdocks moving hauling inc image
top ranked movers in chico 2022 murdocks moving hauling inc image
#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 9/4/2024)

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 >>

top 10 los angeles 2024 best california movers image
top 10 ranked movers in palmdale 2023 best california movers image
top 10 ranked movers in firebaugh 2022 best california movers image
#5
Country Roads Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 714+ data points

Morgantown, WV
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3094022 Verify

About Country Roads Moving LLC

Country Roads Moving is a Morgantown-based moving company that serves the greater North Central West Virginia area. It is licensed, insured,...Read More >>

top morgantown 2024 country roads moving llc image
top ranked movers in morgantown 2023 country roads moving llc image
top ranked movers in morgantown 2022 country roads moving llc image
#6
A
Fabulous

based on 347+ data points

Somerville, NJ
Local and long-distance moving services, Packing and unpacking services, Short-term and long-term storage options See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3679007 Verify

About Abates Moving Services LLC

With Abates Moving Services LLC, you can expect your relocation to be stress-free and quick without feeling hurried at all. This local Morga...Read More >>

top 3 morgantown 2024 abates moving services llc image
top 3 ranked movers in morgantown 2023 abates moving services llc image
top 3 ranked movers in morgantown 2022 abates moving services llc image

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to West Virginia

Making a major move can be daunting. This guide aims to realistically weigh the attributes of relocating from California to West Virginia, laying out the factors that play into such a decision. Our charts compare the pros and cons of moving from California to West Virginia , aiming to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad elements of this transition.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Wildfire risks
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • Lush green landscapes
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • More rural
  • Limited dining options
  • No beaches
California iconCalifornia
  • Vibrant city life
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Beach access

When you move from California's bustling cities to the serene hills of West Virginia, you transition from a lifestyle known for its vibrant city life, diverse cuisine, and access to beautiful beaches to one that's more laid-back, with lush green landscapes and less congestion. West Virginia might offer fewer dining options, but places like Pies & Pints in Charleston and Black Bear Burritos in Morgantown serve up unique, local flavors that more than make up for the variety. Although you'll swap beach days for mountain hikes, areas like the Monongahela National Forest offer breathtaking natural beauty. This move is not just a change of scenery but a complete lifestyle shift, embracing outdoor adventures over urban expeditions.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from California to West Virginia

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & West Virginia, providing a snapshot of what your meals might look like after you move. Food deeply enriches local culture, so understanding the culinary scene is key to feeling at home.

CaliforniaWest Virginia

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadPepperoni Roll

Most popular meat dish

Tri-tip BBQCountry Ham

Most popular street food item

TacosHot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastMorel Mushrooms

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Chez Panisse
  • n/naka
  • In-N-Out Burger
  • Country Club Bakery
  • Pat & Marion’s Country Kitchen
  • Tudor’s Biscuit World

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

96

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

94

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

106

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

95

In California, the food scene is as diverse as its population, with an abundance of fresh, farm-to-table options and a strong emphasis on health and wellness. You'll find iconic eateries like Chez Panisse in Berkeley, which has championed local and organic food for decades, and In-N-Out Burger, a fast-food chain with a cult following. On the other hand, West Virginia offers a more traditional American comfort food scene, with the pepperoni roll standing as its most iconic food item. Locals cherish spots like Country Club Bakery, where this unique snack was originated. Whether you're craving an upscale dining experience or a quick, delicious bite, both states offer unique culinary delights that reflect their cultural heritage.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from California to West Virginia

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience, making it crucial to understand how housing options in California and West Virginia compare. This comparison will inform your decision, highlighting differences in cost, style, and lifestyle.

When you consider moving from California to West Virginia, the drastic change in the median home prices and rents stand out as perhaps the most enticing financial incentive. In West Virginia, the affordability extends beyond housing costs to a generally lower cost of living, allowing for a larger living space or property with scenic mountain views, a popular feature in local listings. However, this move might mean adjusting to a more suburban or rural lifestyle, with less emphasis on walkability and bikeability compared to some Californian cities. Architectural preferences also shift, with West Virginia homes often featuring traditional American styles that reflect its rich history and natural surroundings.

Weather Considerations for Moving from California to West Virginia

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding the environmental changes is crucial. Comparing the weather patterns between California and West Virginia highlights significant differences and prepares you for adaptation. This chart aims to outline how the climate, air quality, and potential for natural disasters will change from what you're accustomed to.

Summer icon
85/58

California

85/62

West Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68/48

California

41/26

West Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22

California

45

West Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
7

California

33

West Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from California to West Virginia, you'll find distinct differences in weather patterns. While both states enjoy similar summer temperatures, West Virginia's winters are significantly colder with greater snowfall - a factor to consider for your winter wardrobe and commuting plans. The increase in annual rainfall and humidity in West Virginia compared to California may also affect outdoor activities and lifestyle choices, not to mention the adjustment to fewer days of sunshine. Understanding these climatic differences will help you prepare for your new home in West Virginia.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one state to another, assessing how your finances will be affected is crucial. This comparison aims to elucidate the monetary distinctions between California and West Virginia, focusing on factors such as income, taxation, and living costs. Understanding these variances can significantly impact your transition and daily life in your new home.

Moving from California to West Virginia presents a significant shift in financial landscape due to the disparity in household income, cost of living, and taxation. While California boasts higher average incomes and a bustling economy across sectors like technology and entertainment, it also comes with a higher cost of living and taxation rates. On the other hand, West Virginia, with its focus on energy and tourism, offers a more affordable lifestyle but has lower average incomes. This stark difference can affect everything from your day-to-day expenses to long-term financial planning. Consider these financial aspects carefully to make the most informed decision about your relocation.

Political & Religious Comparison between California and West Virginia

This guide offers a quick snapshot of the differences in the political makeup between California & West Virginia, and the religious backdrop you might encounter when moving. This comparison aims to give you a better understanding of the community fabric in each state.

CaliforniaWest Virginia

Political Make-up

Largely DemocraticPrimarily Republican

Local Politics

Diverse and progressive policiesConservative and traditional policies

Religion

Mixed, with a higher percentage of non-religious individualsMajority Christian, with traditional values

When moving from California to West Virginia, you'll notice a significant shift in the political and religious landscape. California's political environment is characterized by its diversity and progressive policies, reflecting a broad spectrum of views among its residents. Conversely, West Virginia has a more homogenized political scene, with conservative and traditional policies at its core. The religious makeup also shifts from a more mixed and less religiously affiliated population in California, to a predominantly Christian community in West Virginia, underlining the importance of traditional values. This cultural shift is something to consider as you plan your move.

Education Guide When Moving from California to West Virginia

The purpose of this chart is to help you compare schools and education options between California and West Virginia, providing a clearer understanding of what educational opportunities await in both states.

CaliforniaWest Virginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

UCLA
UC Berkeley
Stanford University
West Virginia University
Marshall University
West Virginia Wesleyan College

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Point Vicente Elementary
Ranch Hills Elementary
Vista del Mar Elementary
North Elementary
Culloden Elementary
Suncrest Primary

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mill Valley Middle
Sierra Canyon School
Carmel Valley Middle School
Winfield Middle
Mountaineer Middle
Suncrest Middle

Top 3 High School Schools

California Academy of Mathematics and Science
Henry Gunn High School
Troy High School
George Washington High School
Bridgeport High School
Morgantown High School

Top 3 private high schools

Harvard-Westlake School
The Thacher School
Phillips Academy
The Linsly School
Greenbrier Episcopal School
Wheeling Country Day School

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Nueva School
Crossroads School
Brentwood School
Charleston Catholic High School
St. Joseph Central Catholic High School
Notre Dame High School

Top 3 School Districts

Palo Alto Unified School District
San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Irvine Unified School District
Monongalia County Schools
Ohio County Schools
Harrison County Schools

In comparing educational opportunities between California and West Virginia, it's clear both states offer admirable options tailored to diverse needs. For example, California boasts prestigious universities such as UCLA and Stanford University, drawing in students nationally for higher education. In contrast, West Virginia's top colleges like West Virginia University provide a more intimate learning environment with strong community ties. Elementary to high school education also shows differences in geographical focuses, with top schools like Point Vicente Elementary in California offering coastal settings, whereas West Virginia's North Elementary offers a more mountainous backdrop. These distinctions highlight the varying educational landscapes and opportunities available across the states.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best California to West Virginia Movers Featured Image