Best New Hampshire to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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NH to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state often marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, packed with new experiences and opportunities. You might be swapping the serene, picturesque landscapes of the "Granite State" for the sun-soaked beaches and dynamic cities of the "Golden State," leaving behind frosty winters for year-round sunshine. Recognizing the enormity of transitioning from New Hampshire to California, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we take pride in connecting you with the best, ensuring a seamless journey to your new beginning.

New Hampshire iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best New Hampshire to California Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Fit 2 Move9.28A-Authorized For HHGContact
Bridges Bros Movers9.01A+Authorized For HHGContact
First-Rate Moving, LLC8.93A+Authorized For HHGContact
Able Moving and Storage8.59NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to New Hampshire guide.

6 Best NH to CA Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Fit 2 Move Logo
Exceptional9.28/10
based on 503+ data points

About Fit 2 Move

Fit 2 Move is a veteran-owned moving company in Rochester, serving the seacoast, central, southern, and lakes regions of New Hampshire, as w...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Residential Moving Local & Long Distance
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059585 / 1540193

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Bridges Bros Movers Logo
Superb9.01/10
based on 781+ data points

About Bridges Bros Movers

Bridges Bros Movers has been helping people move their belongings for over a hundred years. It is a family-owned company established in Newb...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Move planning
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3152985 / 105934

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved131,248 (2022)
View Full Review
4
First-Rate Moving, LLC Logo
Superb8.93/10
based on 1,182+ data points

About First-Rate Moving, LLC

First-Rate Moving provides high-quality moving services to the Greater Boston and New England areas. Based in Windham, NH, this locally owne...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3141590 / 99572

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved65,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Able Moving and Storage Logo
Fabulous8.59/10
based on 180+ data points

About Able Moving and Storage

For over 40 years, Able Moving and Storage has been one of the most trusted and reliable moving companies in New Hampshire. It’s proud to ha...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

42189 / 140160

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved75,932 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from New Hampshire to California

Moving from New Hampshire to California involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This guide aims to provide a balanced view by highlighting the pros and cons of relocating from New Hampshire to California through comparative analysis. Understanding these aspects can help you prepare for a significant lifestyle change and embrace the new opportunities that await.

CONs
PROs
New Hampshire iconNew Hampshire
  • Harsher winters
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Lower entertainment options
  • More limited cuisine
California iconCalifornia
  • Milder winters
  • More job opportunities
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Rich entertainment options
  • Diverse cuisine
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher cost of living
  • Urban crowding
  • Environmental concerns
  • Less community feeling
  • Heavy traffic
New Hampshire iconNew Hampshire
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quaint small towns
  • Natural landscapes
  • Close-knit communities
  • Less traffic congestion

Moving to California opens up a world of opportunities, particularly in job sectors such as technology, entertainment, and tourism. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles are not just economic hubs but also centers of cultural diversity, offering an array of cuisines, entertainment, and lifestyle options. Places like Universal Studios Hollywood, the vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco, and the scenic beauty of Big Sur cater to a wide array of interests and are emblematic of California's rich offering to its residents and visitors alike. However, this move comes with its considerations, including adjusting to a higher cost of living and navigating through busier cities. The welcoming communities in New Hampshire, known for their serene landscapes and less hurried life, will be a contrast to California's bustling urban life, yet both states offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.

New Hampshire vs. California Food Guide

Exploring new locales often includes indulging in the local cuisine, an integral aspect of the area's culture and lifestyle. In this brief guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between New Hampshire & California to help you understand the food scene in your new home.

New HampshireCalifornia
Most iconic local food itemApple Cider DoughnutsAvocado Toast
Most popular meat dishMaple Glazed HamFish Tacos
Most popular street food itemLobster RollsTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan Maple CookiesPlant-based Burgers
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Common Man
  • Moxy
  • Republic Cafe
  • Chez Panisse
  • Pink's Hot Dogs
  • Gjelina
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In California, you'll find a diverse and vibrant food scene that reflects the state's rich cultural landscape. Iconic dishes like avocado toast and fish tacos can be found statewide, offering a taste of the local flavor. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are hotspots for foodies, boasting an abundance of food trucks, health-conscious eateries, and high ratings for vegan friendliness. For a truly Californian dining experience, locations such as Chez Panisse in Berkeley have set the bar for farm-to-table dining, while Pink's Hot Dogs and Gjelina offer more casual, yet iconic, options. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of LA or the scenic coastal towns, California's culinary offerings are as diverse as its landscape.

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New Hampshire vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will shed light on housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle changes that you can expect when moving from New Hampshire to California.

ComparisonNew HampshireCalifornia
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodSpanish, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, scenic viewsEco-friendly features, outdoor living spaces

Shifting from New Hampshire's quaint, Colonial-style homes to California's modern and Spanish-influenced architecture represents just the beginning of the adjustment. In California, the emphasis on eco-friendly features and outdoor living spaces reflects not only the architectural differences but also a lifestyle that values sustainability and the outdoors. Furthermore, California's higher urban lifestyle rating indicates a more dynamic, walkable, and bikeable living environment, contrasting with New Hampshire's more laid-back, spacious yards, and scenic views. This shift embodies a move towards a more active and environmentally conscious lifestyle that's typical in many Californian cities.

New Hampshire vs. California Weather Considerations

Moving from one place to another requires adaptability, especially regarding weather. Understanding how the climate differs between New Hampshire and California is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.

Summer icon
80°F / 55°F

New Hampshire

85°F / 60°F

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
34°F / 17°F

New Hampshire

68°F / 48°F

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47"

New Hampshire

22"

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
60"

New Hampshire

Variable

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonNew HampshireCalifornia
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from New Hampshire to California, you'll notice a significant shift not just in the quantity of sunshine but also in the type and frequency of natural disasters. California offers more sunny days and milder winters compared to the cold, snow-laden winters of New Hampshire. However, it's also home to earthquakes and wildfires, contrasting with the snowstorms and floods more common in New Hampshire. Adjusting to these differences, along with the change in humidity and air quality, is key to comfortably settling into your new surroundings.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, it's pivotal to grasp how financial elements stack up against each other. Comparing New Hampshire and California provides insight into how your wallet might feel the shift. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic landscape will guide you in preparing for your new chapter.

ComparisonNew HampshireCalifornia
Avg. Household Income$89,992$91,551
Cost of Living Index116.8136.4
State Income Tax0up to 13.3
Avg. Property Tax2.050.77
Avg. Sales Tax08.82
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Manufacturing, TechnologyTechnology, Agriculture, Entertainment
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessLowHigh

While both New Hampshire and California boast above-average median household incomes, the Golden State's figures are slightly higher. However, this bump in income may not stretch as far as you'd hope, given California's significantly higher cost of living and state income tax rates. Conversely, New Hampshire's lack of a state income tax and sales tax presents an appealing financial aspect, although property taxes are notably higher. Understand that each state's top industries also suggest different career opportunities, with technology playing a leading role in both but differing secondary sectors. Consider these financial and economic landscapes carefully as you plan your move.

New Hampshire vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from New Hampshire to California presents a significant cultural shift, especially when considering the comparison of the politics between New Hampshire & California . This quick glance aims to provide insights into the political and religious makeup of both states, helping you understand the societal landscape you're moving into.

New HampshireCalifornia
Political Make-upModerately conservative, swing stateLargely liberal, Democratic stronghold
Local PoliticsLocal politics vary, with a mix of Republican and Democratic strongholdsLocal politics lean heavily Democratic, especially in urban areas
ReligionChristianity dominates, but less religious overall compared to the national averageDiverse religious landscape, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and non-religious groups

When moving from New Hampshire to California, you'll find yourself transitioning from a state with a moderate political atmosphere to one that is a beacon of progressive values in the United States. Local politics in New Hampshire can be a mixed bag, ensuring a variety of viewpoints at the local level. In contrast, California's local politics are predominantly Democratic, particularly in its major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Religion in New Hampshire is primarily Christian, though the state is less religious on average. California offers a broader religious palette, reflecting its diverse population. This diverse religious environment underscores the state's wide range of cultural experiences, from the San Francisco Bay Area to the cultural melting pot of Los Angeles. Understanding these differences will help you adjust to your new home more quickly and seamlessly.

Education Guide When Moving from New Hampshire to California

To assist in your transition, it's crucial to compare schools and education options between New Hampshire and California . This comparison will help you better understand what educational opportunities await in both states.

New HampshireCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of New Hampshire
Dartmouth College
Southern New Hampshire University
University of California
Stanford University
California State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Little Harbour School (Portsmouth)
Maude H. Trefethen School (New Castle)
Matthew Thornton Elementary (Londonderry)
Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Mill Valley Middle School (Mill Valley)
Hawthorne Elementary (Beverly Hills)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Oyster River Middle School (Durham)
Hampton Academy (Hampton)
Cooperative Middle School (Stratham)
Henry E. Huntington Middle School (San Marino)
Alice Fong Yu Alternative School (San Francisco)
The Nueva School (Hillsborough)

Top 3 High School Schools

Academy for Science and Design (Nashua)
Hanover High School (Hanover)
Bedford High School (Bedford)
Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto)
California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)
Troy High School (Fullerton)

Top 3 private high schools

Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter)
St. Paul's School (Concord)
The Derryfield School (Manchester)
Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
The Harker School (San Jose)
Polytechnic School (Pasadena)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Derryfield School (Manchester)
Nashua Christian Academy (Nashua)
Mount Zion Christian Schools (Manchester)
The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
The Webb Schools (Claremont)
Chadwick School (Palos Verdes Peninsula)

Top 3 School Districts

Hanover School District
Bedford School District
Londonderry School District
San Marino Unified School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
Arcadia Unified School District

While New Hampshire offers prestigious institutions like Phillips Exeter Academy and Dartmouth College, known for their intimate learning environments, California counters with behemoths in education like Stanford University and Harvard-Westlake School, providing unmatched opportunities in innovation and diversity. California's strength lies in its commitment to technological advancement and creative education, evident in schools such as the California Academy of Mathematics and Science. However, New Hampshire's educational approach prioritizes community-oriented learning and accessibility, which is reflected in highly-regarded public schools like the Academy for Science and Design. Both states offer unique educational landscapes, but your choice might hinge on specific academic or cultural priorities.

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