Best Boston to Los Angeles Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Boston to Los Angeles Movers

Moving from Beantown to the City of Angels marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and endless possibilities. You're leaving behind the historical charm and autumn hues of Boston for the sun-drenched streets and vibrant culture of Los Angeles. Understanding the significance of this journey, we emphasize the importance of partnering with trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition across the states.

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Best Boston to Los Angeles Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Stairhopper Movers9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Centaur Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Best California Movers9.52A+Authorized For HHGContact
Intelligent labor & Moving9.51A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Prodigy Moving & Storage9.41NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to Los Angeles Moving Companies

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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 10/18/2024)

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
3
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.41/10
based on 11,757+ data points

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a locally-...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we offer a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Los Angeles, CA . This guide aims to match you with a Los Angeles neighborhood that shares similarities with your favorite Boston locality, making the unfamiliar, familiar.

BostonLos AngelesHow They're Similar
Beacon HillHancock ParkHistoric homes, quiet ambiance
Back BayBeverly GroveShopping, dining, and walkability
South EndSilver LakeDiverse, artsy community with hip eateries
North EndThe Arts DistrictRich cultural history, foodie destination
Seaport DistrictMarina del ReyWaterfront views, innovative tech scene
FenwayLos FelizVibrant nightlife, close to parks
CharlestownStudio CityFamily-friendly, rich in history
CambridgeWestwoodUniversity community, cultural institutions
East BostonVeniceDiverse population, unique attractions
Jamaica PlainEcho ParkGreen spaces, indie shops, community vibe

In comparing these neighborhoods, it's clear how each city offers unique yet comparable living experiences. For example, if you cherish the historic charm and quiet streets of Beacon Hill, you might find Hancock Park's grand historic homes and spacious greenery a comforting parallel. On the other side of the spectrum, Silver Lake mirrors South End's artsy and diverse atmosphere but brings its own LA twist with an eclectic range of hip eateries and boutiques, such as Intelligentsia Coffee and LAMILL Coffee for your caffeine fix. For those intrigued by Boston's Seaport's innovation and waterfront living, Marina Del Rey's exciting tech scene and water activities, highlighted by spots like Marina Del Rey Hotel and Burton Chace Park, offer a similar vibe under the California sun.

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Things to Do in Los Angeles

  • Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Explore LACMA's art collections
  • Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
  • Walk Santa Monica Pier
  • Experience Disneyland
  • Hike in Eaton Canyon

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Los Angeles

Moving from one city to another always comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA. By comparing the pros and cons, you'll get a clearer picture of what to expect and how your life might change for the better or worse.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Cold winters
  • Higher taxes
  • Smaller nightlife
  • Less diverse cuisine
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Lower taxes
  • Dynamic nightlife
  • World-class cuisine
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Less historical sites
  • Spread-out communities
  • Less green space
  • Less distinct seasons
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Tight-knit communities
  • Plentiful parks
  • Seasonal experiences

When moving from Boston to Los Angeles, you're not just transitioning to warmer weather; you're entering a mosaic of cultures that influence the local cuisine, art, and lifestyle. Los Angeles' culinary landscape, for example, features everything from food trucks serving authentic Mexican cuisine to high-end dining experiences such as those found at N/Naka or Bestia. Neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park offer vibrant nightlife with spots like The Satellite for live music. However, while LA’s vast expanse offers diverse experiences, communities are more spread out, which can affect the sense of neighborhood closeness you might be used to in Boston's tightly-knit areas like Beacon Hill or the North End. Despite these differences, each city has its unique charm that, once embraced, can make you feel right at home.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Food Guide

When relocating from one city to another, understanding the local cuisine plays a critical role in immersing yourself into the new environment. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Los Angeles to help you get a taste of what your culinary life will look like in your new city.

BostonLos Angeles
Most iconic local food itemClam ChowderStreet Tacos
Most popular meat dishLobster RollKorean BBQ
Most popular street food itemFried ClamsTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegan Ramen
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Union Oyster House
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Neptune Oyster
  • The Grove
  • Gracias Madre
  • In-N-Out Burger
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Boston is famed for its seafood, especially the Lobster Roll and Clam Chowder, Los Angeles offers a diverse food scene with a strong focus on fresh, vegan options like Vegan Ramen and a plethora of street food with tacos leading as the most popular. Los Angeles is uniquely characterized by its abundance of food trucks that cater to every taste and dietary requirement, making the city a paradise for food lovers. Neighborhoods such as Venice Beach and Silver Lake are hotspots for health-conscious eaters and foodies looking for diverse and innovative cuisine. Meanwhile, in Boston, areas like the North End and Seaport District are must-visits to experience the city's iconic seafood dishes and historical dining establishments like Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering where to eat. This restaurant comparison between Boston and Los Angeles will help you locate your next favorite dining spots, using your beloved Boston eateries as a guide.

BostonLos AngelesWhat You'll Love
OleanaBotanicaFresh, locally-sourced Mediterranean dishes
Neptune OysterConnie and Ted'sA seafood spot with New England vibes
UniSUGARFISHOffering an exceptional omakase experience
ToroBar AmáInnovative tapas with a cozy, vibrant atmosphere
Mike's PastryPorto's Bakery & CafeFamous for pastries and desserts with a community feel
Santarpio's PizzaPizzanaNeapolitan pies with a modern twist
Tatte Bakery & CafeRepubliqueOffers both exquisite pastries and a full dining experience
Craigie On MainAnimalKnown for bold, creative American cuisine
Legal Sea FoodsProvidenceUpscale seafood with a focus on sustainability
Flour Bakery + CafeGjustaArtisanal bakery and deli with a laid-back vibe

Among these culinary connections, Connie and Ted's in Los Angeles captures the essence of Boston's Neptune Oyster with its dedication to delivering fresh, quality seafood in an ambiance reminiscent of New England. Similarly, those missing Tatte Bakery & Cafe's cozy atmosphere and delectable pastries will find solace in Republique's vast selection of exquisite pastries coupled with a heartening dining experience. And for the pizza aficionados, Pizzana takes the essence of Santarpio's Pizza and spins it with a modern, Neapolitan twist, ensuring the pizza magic continues across the coast. Each of these Los Angeles eateries carries a piece of Boston in its taste, making your transition a flavorful journey.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA and Los Angeles, CA aims to shed light on the housing aspects critical for your move. From costs and architecture to lifestyle scores, see how these two cities stack up.

ComparisonBostonLos Angeles
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, FederalModern, Spanish Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingClose to colleges, historic charmOutdoor living spaces, views

While the median home price and monthly rent are higher in Los Angeles than in Boston, the difference in lifestyle and amenities offered by each city is notable. Boston's rich history is reflected in its colonial and federal architecture and its proximity to numerous colleges, making it an ideal city for those who value education and historic charm. On the other hand, Los Angeles offers modern and Spanish Revival architecture, emphasizing outdoor living spaces and breathtaking views, catering to those who prefer a blend of urban and natural elements. Despite Boston having a higher walkability score, making it easier to navigate without a car, Los Angeles offers a unique urban lifestyle that is hard to replicate, with its diverse culture, entertainment industry, and access to beaches.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.

2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.

3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect from the climate in your new city. From annual sunshine to the likelihood of natural disasters, see how Boston's and Los Angeles's weather stacks up against each other.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

84°F / 66°F

Los Angeles, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

68°F / 48°F

Los Angeles, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8

Boston, MA

14.77

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48.0

Boston, MA

0

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonLos Angeles
Air QualityModerateVaries / Often Moderate to Unhealthy
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, Nor'eastersEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Boston and Los Angeles share similar summer temperatures, the winter months present a sharp contrast, with Boston experiencing freezing temperatures and Los Angeles enjoying mild weather. Los Angeles boasts nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, much higher than Boston, enabling a more active, outdoor lifestyle year-round. The risk of natural disasters shifts from snowstorms in Boston to earthquakes and wildfires in Los Angeles, illustrating a switch in emergency preparedness needs. Meanwhile, both cities face their distinct challenges with air quality and allergens, necessitating adaptations for individuals sensitive to these conditions.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Los Angeles

When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison provides insights into Boston and Los Angeles' economic landscape focusing on cost of living, taxes, and income, aiding in a smoother transition.

ComparisonBostonLos Angeles
Avg. Household Income$79,283$70,372
Cost of Living Index132.5136.4
State Income Tax59.3
Avg. Property Tax1.220.73
Avg. Sales Tax6.259.5
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, FinanceEntertainment, Manufacturing, Tourism
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessModerateHigh

Moving from Boston to Los Angeles, you'll notice several key financial differences. While Los Angeles boasts a higher cost of living index, indicating generally more expensive day-to-day expenses, Boston residents enjoy a higher average household income. This discrepancy could affect your financial comfort after the move. Moreover, the state income tax in California is nearly double that of Massachusetts, potentially impacting your take-home pay. On a brighter note, Los Angeles offers a diverse job market, notably in entertainment, manufacturing, and tourism, giving you a variety of sectors to explore for career opportunities.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison

If you're contemplating a move from Boston, MA, to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Boston & Los Angeles, helping you gauge how well you'll fit into your new surroundings.

BostonLos Angeles
Political Make-upLiberal-leaningLiberal-leaning
Local PoliticsDemocratic majorityDemocratic majority
ReligionCatholic majority, with a mix of other Christian denominations and religionsDiverse, with a significant presence of Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities

Both Boston and Los Angeles are known for their liberal-leaning political makeup, with a strong majority of residents supporting Democratic candidates in local and national elections. This indicates that, politically, your transition may be smoother than expected. Religious diversity is also a hallmark of both cities, though the specific mix varies. Boston has a higher concentration of Catholic residents, while Los Angeles boasts a vibrant tapestry of religious communities, including significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist populations, reflecting its broader cultural diversity. Embracing this mix can enrich your understanding and provide a deeper sense of community engagement in your new city.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in the daily commute and traffic, making this comparison of traffic and transportation options between Boston & Los Angeles invaluable for prospective movers. From congestion levels to public transit availability, we've got you covered.

ComparisonBostonLos Angeles
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)30.429.6
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?YesNo

In Boston, the robust public transit system, including the MBTA, allows residents to comfortably live without a car, evidenced by a high score in public transit availability. This is a stark contrast to Los Angeles, where despite ongoing improvements, the spread-out nature of the city and less extensive public transit network typically necessitate owning a car for convenience. Furthermore, Los Angeles experiences higher traffic congestion, emphasizing the importance of planning commutes around peak traffic hours. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your daily life and mobility in these cities.

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