Best New York to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the buzzing streets of the Empire State to the sun-soaked hills of the Golden State is an adventure brimming with promise and change. You're leaving behind New York's iconic skyline and sleepless nights for California's laid-back vibes and endless beaches. Understanding the importance of this significant journey, we stress the necessity of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your move is as smooth and stress-free as the California coast.
Best New York to California Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Flex Moving and Storage | 9.69 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Solidarity Movers | 9.68 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Pure Moving | 9.64 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to New York guide.
6 Best NY to CA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About JP Urban Moving
JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>
Services
- Local NYC Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving, Business Moving
About Metropolis Moving
Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Commercial moving services
About Flex Moving and Storage
With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of service...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Commercial moves
- Long distance moves
About Solidarity Movers
New York is a big city, and residents need a reliable company to help them move. That’s where Solidarity Movers’ five-star rated service com...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
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
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 New York to California
Moving across the country is a significant life event that requires careful consideration. This comparison aims to reflect an honest appraisal of moving from New York to California , outlining both the good and the bad. By juxtaposing the cons with the pros and vice versa, we provide you with a balanced perspective to aid your decision-making process.
New York- High living costs
- Cold winters
- Dense population
- Less green space
California- More job opportunities
- Mild winters
- Spacious outdoor spaces
- Vibrant natural landscapes
California- Higher taxes
- Reliance on cars
- Expensive housing
- Water scarcity
New York- Cultural diversity
- Public transportation
- Vibrant nightlife
- World-class museums
When considering a move from New York to California, you're not just trading a fast-paced city life for sunnier skies; you're stepping into a rich tapestry of culture, nature, and opportunities. California's outdoor lifestyle is unparalleled, with places like Yosemite National Park and Venice Beach offering stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. On the flip side, you might find yourself missing New York's unmatched public transportation system and vibrant urban life, where establishments like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and eclectic neighborhoods such as Williamsburg shape daily life. Yet, California responds with its own unique offerings, such as the tech boom in Silicon Valley, the cinematic allure of Los Angeles, and the innovative culinary scene in San Francisco. Although California's high costs and water issues present real challenges, the state's diverse cities and beautiful natural resources make it a compelling destination for those seeking a change.
New York vs. California Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between New York & California, highlighting the importance of food in understanding a place's culture. As you plan your move, getting to know the local food scene can make the transition smoother and more delightful.
| New York | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Bagel | Avocado Toast |
| Most popular meat dish | Pastrami on Rye | Tri-tip Barbecue |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Sandwich | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In New York, the bagel is more than a breakfast item; it's an institution, especially in places like Manhattan's Lower East Side. California, on the other hand, is the home of the health-conscious, with avocado toast becoming a symbol of the state's cuisine. For meat lovers, pastrami on rye in New York draws crowds to iconic spots like Katz's Delicatessen, while California's tri-tip barbecue has roots in the Central Coast and Santa Maria Valley. Street food tells a similar story of diversity: from the all-American hot dog stands scattered throughout New York City to the fresh fish tacos found along California's coastlines. Whether you're moving for the vibrant food truck scenes or the abundance of vegan options, each state offers a unique taste that caters to every palate.
Ready to start your move?
New York vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Knowing how New York and California stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly impact your decision. This comparison is designed to elucidate these differences and help ease your transition.
| Comparison | New York | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Pre-war, Modern | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to subway, rooftop access | Outdoor living spaces, eco-friendly features |
When considering a move from New York to California, it’s important to look beyond just the numbers. For instance, while the median home prices and monthly rents are somewhat comparable, the lifestyle and environment you are looking for could heavily influence your decision. New York offers a highly walkable environment with easy access to public transit and a dense urban environment, making it ideal for those who thrive in the hustle and bustle. In contrast, California provides a more relaxed ambiance with its emphasis on outdoor living spaces and eco-friendly features. It's also worth noting the unique architectural styles in each state that cater to different tastes, with New York known for its pre-war and modern edifices, whereas California offers a blend of Spanish influence and modern designs. Understanding these nuances will help you find a home that not only fits your budget but also your lifestyle.
New York vs. California Weather Considerations
When relocating, grasping the new climate is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison sheds light on key weather differences to anticipate when moving from New York to California. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for the lifestyle changes ahead.
New York
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New York
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New York
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New York
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | New York | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Variable | Variable to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both states boast ample sunshine, moving from New York to California, you'll notice more sunny days and milder winters. However, California's vast landscape means weather can vary significantly—coastal areas experience cool, foggy summers whereas inland areas can reach scorching summer temperatures. Another key difference is the natural disaster risk; New York faces hurricanes and blizzards, while California contends with earthquakes and wildfires. Preparing for these risks and understanding local weather patterns is essential for anyone making this cross-country move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York to California
Moving from one location to another demands a thoughtful consideration of your finances. It's critical to compare how your expenses might shift, especially when moving between significant economic landscapes. This chart aims to highlight the financial implications of relocating from New York to California, covering income, taxes, and the cost of living.
| Comparison | New York | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,557 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 102.8 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4% - 10.9% | 1% - 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.4% | 0.77% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.52% | 8.68% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Significant | Notable |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
When comparing the financial landscapes of New York and California, it becomes apparent that while both states offer prosperous opportunities, they also come with their unique financial burdens. For instance, although the average household income is higher in California, the cost of living index significantly surpasses that of New York, primarily due to housing costs. Moreover, the higher range of state income tax in California can impact your take-home pay, depending on your income bracket. Nonetheless, the golden state's vibrant technology, agriculture, and entertainment sectors present unique career opportunities not as prevalent in New York. These factors are crucial to consider as you plan your move.
New York vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from New York to California, it's helpful to have a quick snapshot of what to expect regarding the communities you'll be joining. This brief comparison will provide you an at-a-glance view of the political makeup between New York & California, as well as insights into the local politics and religious landscape. Understanding these aspects can help you integrate more smoothly into your new environment.
| New York | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal, Democratic leaning | Liberal, Democratic stronghold |
| Local Politics | Democratic dominance in urban areas, mixed in rural | Democratic dominance across most urban and many suburban areas |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Christian presence | Diverse, significant non-religious community |
While both New York and California are known for their liberal, Democratic-leaning populations, nuances in local politics and religious diversity are noteworthy. In New York, while urban centers like New York City heavily lean Democratic, some rural areas present a more mixed political landscape. California, on the other hand, shows a stronger Democratic presence across not just urban but many suburban regions as well. Religion in both states is diverse, with New York home to a robust Christian community, visible in institutions like The Brick Church. California's religious landscape is similarly diverse but also boasts a significant non-religious community, reflected in spaces like San Francisco's Grace Cathedral. Understanding these differences will help you appreciate the rich cultural tapestry that defines both states.
Education Guide When Moving from New York to California
Moving from New York to California involves numerous considerations, one of the most crucial being education. Through comparing schools and educational options, our goal is to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in these two influential states.
| New York | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) New York University Columbia University Cornell UniversityUniversity of California (Berkeley) Stanford University University of California (Los Angeles) | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools PS 77 Lower Lab School (New York City) PS 334 The Anderson School (New York City) Success Academy Charter School (Bronx)Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes) Pacific Elementary School (Manhattan Beach) Old Adobe Elementary Charter School (Petaluma) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools The Anderson School (New York City) NYC Lab Middle School (New York City) The Spence School (New York City)William Faria Elementary School (Cupertino) Harker School (San Jose) The Nueva School (Hillsborough) | |
Top 3 High Schools Stuyvesant High School (New York City) Bronx High School of Science (Bronx) Brooklyn Technical High School (Brooklyn)Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto) Torrey Pines High School (San Diego) Palo Alto High School (Palo Alto) | |
Top 3 private high schools Horace Mann School (Bronx) The Chapin School (New York City) Collegiate School (New York City)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The Thacher School (Ojai) Polytechnic School (Pasadena) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Trinity School (New York City) Horace Mann School (Bronx) The Collegiate School (New York City)The Harker School (San Jose) Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) Marlborough School (Los Angeles) | |
Top 3 School Districts Great Neck School District Jericho Union Free School District Syosset Central School DistrictPalo Alto Unified School District Arcadia Unified School District San Marino Unified School District | |
While the table provides a quick glance at educational options in New York and California, a deeper dive reveals interesting nuances. For instance, New York City is renowned for its specialized public high schools like Stuyvesant and Bronx Science, which require a specialized high school admissions test. Meanwhile, California boasts prestigious private institutions such as The Harker School and Harvard-Westlake, offering rigorous academic programs from kindergarten through 12th grade. School districts in both states are highly rated, but the specific strengths vary, with New York districts often emphasizing a broad liberal arts education, while districts in California, like Palo Alto, pride themselves on STEM education likely influenced by the proximity to Silicon Valley. Choosing between these educational landscapes depends on your child's needs and your family's priorities, making this comparison a valuable tool in your relocation decision-making process.
Popular New York to California Moving Routes
- New York City to Los Angeles
- New York City to San Diego
- New York City to San Jose
- New York City to San Francisco
- New York City to Fresno
- New York City to Sacramento
- New York City to Long Beach
- New York City to Oakland
- New York City to Bakersfield
- New York City to Anaheim
- New York City to Santa Ana
- New York City to Riverside
- New York City to Stockton
- New York City to Irvine
- New York City to Chula Vista
- New York City to Fremont
- New York City to San Bernardino
- New York City to Modesto
- New York City to Fontana
- New York City to Moreno Valley
- Buffalo to Los Angeles
- Buffalo to San Diego
- Buffalo to San Jose
- Buffalo to San Francisco
- Buffalo to Fresno
- Buffalo to Sacramento
- Buffalo to Long Beach
- Buffalo to Oakland
- Buffalo to Bakersfield
- Buffalo to Anaheim
- Buffalo to Santa Ana
- Buffalo to Riverside
- Buffalo to Stockton
- Buffalo to Irvine
- Buffalo to Chula Vista
- Buffalo to Fremont
- Rochester to Los Angeles
- Rochester to San Diego
- Rochester to San Jose
- Rochester to San Francisco
- Rochester to Fresno
- Rochester to Sacramento
- Rochester to Long Beach
- Rochester to Oakland
- Rochester to Bakersfield
- Rochester to Anaheim
- Rochester to Santa Ana
- Rochester to Riverside
- Rochester to Stockton
- Rochester to Irvine
- Rochester to Chula Vista
- Yonkers to Los Angeles
- Yonkers to San Diego
- Yonkers to San Jose
- Yonkers to San Francisco
- Yonkers to Fresno
- Yonkers to Sacramento
- Yonkers to Long Beach
- Yonkers to Oakland
- Yonkers to Bakersfield
- Yonkers to Anaheim
- Yonkers to Santa Ana
- Yonkers to Riverside
- Yonkers to Stockton
- Yonkers to Irvine
- Yonkers to Chula Vista
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
