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

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Moving from one state to another marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life. Florida, the Sunshine State, known for its endless beaches and laid-back lifestyle, contrasts sharply with California's Golden State allure, where dreams take center stage against a backdrop of diverse landscapes and innovative cities. Given the distance and the sheer amount of logistics involved, it's crucial to entrust your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

6 Best Movers for Moving from Florida to California

#1
Sebastian Moving and More Logo
Exceptional

based on 5,993+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full Service Moves in Orlando, Air-Conditioned Storage, Packing and Unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1575104 Verify

About Sebastian Moving and More

Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloadi...Read More >>

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#2
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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top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
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#3
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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#4
Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,064+ data points

Hallandale Beach, FL
Long Distance Relocation, Local Moving, Long Distance Moving (in State) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3064335 Verify

About Easy Florida Moving LLC

Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company provi...Read More >>

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#5
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,112+ data points

Hollywood, FL
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Local Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3374772 Verify

About Our Family Moving and Storage LLC

Based in Hollywood, FL, Our Family Moving and Storage is a local and family-owned moving business specializing in local and long-distance mo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in miami 2023 our family moving and storage llc image
top 10 ranked movers in miami 2022 our family moving and storage llc image
#6
Dixie Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,045+ data points

Hallandale Beach, FL
Local moving services, Long distance moving services, Commercial moving services
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3080327 Verify

About Dixie Movers

When it was founded in 2015, Dixie Movers handpicked all of the good things about the moving industry and left out all of the bad. It runs i...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Florida to California

Moving across the country is a monumental decision, packed with both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. This comparison is designed to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Florida to California , helping you weigh your options carefully. By contrasting the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what this change entails.

CONs
PROs
Florida iconFlorida
  • High humidity
  • Hurricane season
  • Flat landscape
  • Lower wages
California iconCalifornia
  • Milder climate
  • Less natural disasters
  • Varied geography
  • Higher wages
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher taxes
  • Cooler winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • More crowded beaches
Florida iconFlorida
  • No state income tax
  • Warmer winters
  • More affordable housing
  • Abundant beaches

Moving from the humid, flat terrains of Florida to California introduces you to a dramatically different landscape and climate. In California, the geography varies wildly - from the rolling hills of the Napa Valley Napa Valley, perfect for wine aficionados, to the rugged peaks of Yosemite National Park Yosemite, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Golden State also boasts vibrant cities like San Francisco, home to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and Los Angeles, where dining at renowned restaurants like Providence is a gastronomic delight. While the cost of living and taxes are higher, the increased wages and dynamic economic opportunities in tech, entertainment, and other industries can offer a compelling trade-off. The transition from Florida to California may come with its set of challenges, but the diverse experiences and opportunities available in California make it an enticing prospect for many.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Florida to California

When considering a move, exploring the comparison of the local cuisine between Florida & California is essential to understand what culinary delights await you. Food is an integral part of local culture and provides a glimpse of what life is like in a new area. This comparison aims to inform you about the diverse food scenes in these two vibrant states.

FloridaCalifornia

Most iconic local food item

Key Lime PieSourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Cuban SandwichTri-tip BBQ

Most popular street food item

Conch FrittersTacos

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosAvocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Chez Panisse
  • The French Laundry
  • N/Naka

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

610

Foodie Scene

810

Vegan Friendly

710

In your culinary exploration, you'll note significant differences between Florida’s and California's food scene. Florida offers a unique blend of flavors with its Cuban influences, particularly seen in Miami with the famous Cuban Sandwich. In contrast, California boasts a robust foodie culture, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, where farm-to-table experiences and international cuisines thrive. California also leads in vegan cuisine with a multitude of options, including the trendsetting Avocado Toast. Exploring neighborhoods like Little Havana in Miami or the Mission District in San Francisco will reveal the rich culinary diversity that characterizes each state, making your move a truly delicious adventure.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Florida to California

When planning a move, delving into the real estate landscape is crucial for an informed decision. This comparison highlights the housing aspects between Florida and California, covering costs, architecture, and lifestyle to guide your relocation journey.

Comparing Florida and California sheds light on distinctive trends in housing affordability and style. California's higher home prices reflect its booming tech industry and high demand for living spaces, especially near economic hubs such as Silicon Valley. Alternatively, Florida's appeal lies in its waterfront properties and gated communities, offering luxurious living at a lower cost. Both states showcase a strong inclination towards modern architecture. However, California takes the lead in eco-friendly housing, mirroring its residents' strong environmental values. When considering a move, these factors can greatly influence your decision based on lifestyle preferences and budget.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Florida to California

When relocating from one state to another, understanding how the local climate compares to your current environment is essential. This comparison will guide you through the differences in weather you should expect when moving from Florida to California, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new home.

Summer icon
90°F / 75°F

Florida

85°F / 60°F

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 48°F

Florida

55°F / 42°F

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Florida

22"

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Florida

Varies (High in mountain areas)

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both states enjoy high levels of sunshine, you'll find more sunny days and less humidity in California, making for a milder climate overall. However, California's weather can vary greatly depending on where you are in the state, with coastal areas experiencing cooler summers and mountain regions seeing significant snowfall. Additionally, the types of natural disasters that are common in each state differ, with Florida being prone to hurricanes and California to earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the unique challenges and benefits of your new home's climate.

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

When considering a move from one region to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how your money matters might transform. We compare the key monetary aspects in Florida versus California , emphasizing the financial landscape you're venturing into. Understand how the cost of living , income , and taxation might differ, providing a clearer picture for your relocation decision.

Moving from Florida to California, you'll notice significant differences in the economic landscape. While average household income is higher in California, the cost of living index greatly surpasses that of Florida, making everyday expenses notably higher. Furthermore, California's state income tax can reach up to 13.3%, a steep contrast to Florida's 0%. However, this is offset somewhat by California's slightly lower average property tax rate. It's important to consider these variations, alongside the affluence and poverty levels, the impact of the leading industries, and homelessness rates, which all contribute to the distinct living experiences in each state.

Political & Religious Comparison between Florida and California

As you consider your move from Florida to California, it's helpful to understand the contrasts between your current and future home. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Florida & California . By examining these aspects, you can better anticipate the cultural shift you may experience.

FloridaCalifornia

Political Make-up

Mixed, with a slight lean towards conservatism in recent yearsStrongly liberal, especially in urban areas

Local Politics

Significant variations between urban (more liberal) and rural areas (more conservative)Generally liberal across the state, with some conservative pockets

Religion

Christianity is the dominant religion, with a sizable minority of unaffiliated individualsLarger proportions of unaffiliated individuals, alongside a mix of religious beliefs

Moving from Florida to California, you'll likely notice a shift in the political landscape, moving from an environment that has seen a conservative tilt, especially in recent years, to a state known for its liberal stance, particularly in major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Local politics in California tend to be more uniformly liberal, compared to the mix you might be used to. On the religious front, while both states feature diversity in beliefs, California has a notably higher percentage of people who identify as unaffiliated with any religion. This cultural shift reflects the broader, more diverse religious and philosophical perspectives that characterize much of California.

Education Guide When Moving from Florida to California

Moving to a new state can be a challenge, especially when it comes to your children's education. To help you make an informed decision, we've compared school options in Florida and California. This chart will help you better understand the comparisons between school options in Florida and California.

FloridaCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Florida
University of Central Florida
Florida State University
University of California Los Angeles
University of California Berkeley
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Pine View School
Osprey; Suncoast School Fort Myers; Freedom 7 Elementary School
Cocoa Beach
Point Vicente Elementary School
Rancho Palos Verdes; Mill Creek Elementary School
Irvine; Old Adobe Elementary Charter School
Petaluma

Top 3 Middle Schools

Pine View School
Osprey; Archimedean Middle Conservatory
Miami; Falcon Cove Middle School
Weston
The Nueva School
Hillsborough; The Preuss School
La Jolla; Alice Fong Yu Alternative School
San Francisco

Top 3 High School Schools

Stanton College Preparatory School
Jacksonville; Pine View School
Osprey; Design and Architecture Senior High School
Miami
California Academy of Mathematics and Science
Carson; Oxford Academy
Cypress; Whitney High School
Cerritos

Top 3 private high schools

Ransom Everglades School
Coconut Grove; Bolles School
Jacksonville; Berkeley Preparatory School
Tampa
Harvard-Westlake School
Los Angeles; Phillips Academy
Andover; Stanford Online High School
Stanford

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Cranbrook Schools
Bloomfield Hills; PK Yonge Developmental Research School
Gainesville; American Heritage School
Plantation
The Nueva School
Hillsborough; Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
Santa Monica; The Athenian School
Danville

Top 3 School Districts

St. Johns County School District
St. Johns; Sarasota County Schools
Sarasota; Okaloosa County School District
Okaloosa
Palo Alto Unified School District
Palo Alto; San Marino Unified School District
San Marino; Irvine Unified School District
Irvine

Delving into the details, it's apparent that both states offer prestigious academic options for students at all levels. For instance, in Florida, Pine View School in Osprey stands out as a unique option catering to gifted students from elementary through high school, mirroring the holistic approach found at The Nueva School in Hillsborough, California. For families placing a high value on higher education opportunities, California presents elite options like Stanford University and the University of California system. However, Florida matches this with its own reputable institutions such as the University of Florida and Florida State University. When considering relocation, understanding these educational opportunities is essential in making a well-informed decision that best suits your family's needs.

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