Moving from New York City to Los Angeles?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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New York City to Los Angeles Movers

Embarking on a cross-country journey from the bustling streets of the Big Apple to the sun-kissed boulevards of the City of Angels promises an exhilarating new chapter in your life. As you bid farewell to New York's iconic skyline and embrace Los Angeles' laid-back vibe, the contrast in cultures and climates awaits. With our team at Great Guys Moving, you're ensuring that your belongings are in trusted hands every mile of your 2,800-mile leap of faith, making the transition as seamless as the California breeze.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to New York City guide.

5 Best New York City to Los Angeles Movers

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

#1
JP Urban Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,145+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local NYC Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving, Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2096754 Verify

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 >>

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#2
Metropolis Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,535+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Commercial moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2781573 Verify

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 >>

top 3 new york city 2024 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2023 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2022 metropolis moving image
#3
F
Exceptional

based on 1,380+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moves, Commercial moves, Long distance moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3610638 Verify

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 >>

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#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 >>

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#5
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 11,757+ data points

Los Angeles, CA
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3983945 Verify

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 >>

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Relocating from New York City to Los Angeles Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when the cities are as vibrant and diverse as New York City, NY, and Los Angeles, CA. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between New York City, NY & Los Angeles, CA . By matching up neighborhoods from your current city with their closest counterparts in your future city, we aim to help you find a new home that feels familiar and welcoming.

New York CityLos Angeles
WilliamsburgSilver Lake

Trendy, hipster vibe

Upper East SideBeverly Hills

Upscale, luxurious living

Greenwich VillageWest Hollywood

Vibrant nightlife and arts

SoHoAbbot Kinney (Venice)

Fashionable, artsy area

ChelseaMelrose

Chic shopping and dining

Financial DistrictDowntown LA

Business heart with skyscrapers

HarlemLeimert Park

Rich cultural heritage

DUMBOArts District

Trendy, industrial vibe

MidtownCentury City

Bustling business district

East VillageLos Feliz

Bohemian, eclectic mix

In the heart of Los Angeles, neighborhoods like Silver Lake mirror the trendy, arts-focused atmosphere of Williamsburg, boasting a mix of indie music venues, organic coffee shops, and vibrant street art. If the upscale and prestigious domain of Manhattan's Upper East Side appeals to you, Beverly Hills in Los Angeles offers a similar flair with its luxury boutiques along Rodeo Drive and grandiose residences. Similarly, for those attracted to the youthful and artistic vibe of SoHo, Abbot Kinney in Venice presents a comparable blend of avant-garde art galleries and fashionable retail spaces. West Hollywood and Greenwich Village share a dynamic LGBTQ+ community, iconic nightlife, and rich cultural scene, making either neighborhood a welcoming place for diverse expressions and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for the cosmopolitan buzz of Financial District or the rich cultural tapestry of Harlem, Los Angeles has neighborhoods that resonate with the same energy and vibrancy, ensuring you'll feel right at home in your new city.

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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

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Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

Moving from one coast to another holds both opportunity and challenge. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA , providing a balanced view to help decide if this move is right for you.

CONs
PROs
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • High living costs
  • Harsh winters
  • Compact living spaces
  • Fast-paced lifestyle
  • Limited green spaces
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • Sunny weather
  • More spacious homes
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Abundant parks
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Less public transportation
  • Heavy traffic
  • Reliance on cars
  • Higher car expenses
  • Competitive job market
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Cultural diversity
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Public transit access
  • Rich history
  • Job opportunities

The relocation from New York City to Los Angeles brings a stark contrast in lifestyle and environment. New Yorkers accustomed to the bustling, compact, and fast-paced lifestyle will find Los Angeles's sunny weather and laid-back atmosphere a refreshing change. With Los Angeles's more spacious homes, like those in Silver Lake or Venice Beach, you'll enjoy the luxury of more living space, often with gardens or even a pool. The transition might require adjusting to a car-dependent culture, unlike NYC’s robust public transit system. However, LA compensates with its rich tapestry of culture, from the historic Los Angeles County Museum of Art to iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign and verdant retreats like Griffith Park, offering a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

When considering a move, the food on offer is a critical aspect of a city's culture and what your daily life there will be like. Here, we're conducting a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Los Angeles to help you get a sense of the culinary scene in both cities before you relocate.

New York CityLos Angeles

Most iconic local food item

Bagel with LoxStreet Tacos

Most popular meat dish

New York Strip SteakKorean BBQ

Most popular street food item

Hot DogFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastVegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    • Katz's Delicatessen
    • Daniel
    • Sylvia's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

810

Abundance of Food Trucks

610

Foodie Scene

109

Vegan Friendly

810

Exploring the food cultures of New York City and Los Angeles can be as much an adventure as your move. In NYC, you'll find that neighborhoods like the Lower East Side are famous for their iconic bagels and lox, a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Katz's Delicatessen, a haven for deli lovers, embodies this tradition. Conversely, Los Angeles' food scene is marked by its innovative street food culture, particularly its tacos, which can be explored in areas like Koreatown for Korean BBQ or the streets of East LA for authentic Mexican cuisine. Los Angeles also leads in health-conscious eating, with an abundance of vegan options and health-centric eateries sprawled across the city. Whether it's vegan ramen in Silver Lake or a wide array of food trucks serving everything from fusion dishes to gourmet classics, LA caters to a diverse palate.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between New York City and Los Angeles aims to ease your transition by guiding you to new favorite eateries based on your old haunts. Whether you seek high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, there’s a place for you in your new city.

Le BernardinProvidence

Both offer high-end seafood dining experiences.

Katz's DelicatessenLanger's Delicatessen-Restaurant

Famous for pastrami sandwiches, comparable to Katz's.

Shake ShackIn-N-Out Burger

Both iconic fast-food chains offer unique burger experiences.

Per Sen/naka

Both are high-end establishments offering tasting menus with meticulous attention to detail.

Joe's PizzaJon & Vinny's

Both are well-loved for their authentic, high-quality pizzas.

Di Fara PizzaPizzana

Both pizzerias are renowned for their artisanal approach to traditional pizza-making.

Gramercy TavernOsteria Mozza

Both offer an upscale yet comfortable dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Peter Luger Steak HouseCUT by Wolfgang Puck

Prime steakhouse experiences that are institutions in their respective cities.

Russ & DaughtersWexler's Deli

Both specialize in Jewish deli staples, like bagels and lox.

Momofuku Noodle BarRamen Tatsunoya

Both offer innovative approaches to traditional noodle dishes.

When moving from New York City to Los Angeles, finding dining spots that resonate with you can significantly ease the transition. For a luxurious seafood experience akin to Le Bernardin, Providence in Los Angeles stands out with its commitment to quality and innovation. Deli aficionados mourning the absence of Katz’s iconic pastrami on rye will find solace in Langer's Deli, where the pastrami sandwich rivals the best. And for those who crave the unique flavors and artistry of Momofuku Noodle Bar, Ramen Tatsunoya offers a compelling reason to explore Pasadena, with its rich, flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles, making every bite a reminder of New York’s bustling food scene, but with a distinctly Californian flair.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when moving. Knowing how New York City and Los Angeles fare in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyles is crucial. This comparison vividly outlines the differences and similarities between these major cities.

When considering a move from New York City to Los Angeles, it's essential to dive deeper into the housing-related nuances. NYC boasts unparalleled walkability and an energetic urban lifestyle, which makes living in the city unique without the need for a car. On the other hand, Los Angeles offers slightly more affordable housing options, with a greater emphasis on outdoor living spaces and pools, reflecting its warmer climate and lifestyle. The architectural styles differ as well, with New York's iconic Art Deco skyscrapers contrasting with Los Angeles's Spanish villas and modern homes. Understanding these details can help you align your living preferences with what each city has to offer.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

When planning a move from New York City to Los Angeles, understanding how the weather will change is essential. This comparison will help you adjust to your new climate more comfortably.

Summer icon
85°F / 66°F

New York City, NY

85°F / 66°F

Los Angeles, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39°F / 26°F

New York City, NY

68°F / 48°F

Los Angeles, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
49.9

New York City, NY

15.0

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
25.8

New York City, NY

0

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When transitioning from New York City's variable climate to Los Angeles's milder weather, you'll notice a stark difference in winter temperatures and sunshine. Los Angeles boasts over 280 sunny days a year, significantly more than New York City, offering a brighter, warmer climate. This may influence your outdoor activities and wardrobe choices. Additionally, while both cities face their unique natural disasters, Los Angeles residents must be prepared for wildfires and earthquakes, unlike the blizzards and hurricanes more common in New York City. This difference can also affect considerations for home insurance and emergency preparedness plans.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

When you're moving from one city to another, it’s crucial to grasp how financial aspects like the cost of living and taxes will impact your finances. This comparison between New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA sheds light on these important money and finance considerations, helping you navigate the transition with ease.

While the average household income in New York City is slightly higher than in Los Angeles, the cost of living index in Los Angeles surpasses that of New York City, indicating you might need more to maintain the same lifestyle. The sales tax in Los Angeles is slightly higher, which could impact your day-to-day spending. However, property taxes are somewhat lower in Los Angeles, potentially making homeownership slightly more attainable. The leading industries in each city reflect the unique economic landscapes and job markets, with New York City being a hub for financial services and Los Angeles known for entertainment and tourism. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the financial realities of your new city.

Political & Religious Comparison between New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA

This quick guide offers a snapshot of what to expect when moving from New York City, NY, to Los Angeles, CA, focusing on the politics and religious makeup between New York City & Los Angeles . It's designed to help you get an at-a-glance understanding of the political and religious landscape in your new city.

New York CityLos Angeles

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocratLiberal/Democrat

Local Politics

Diverse representationDiverse representation

Religion

Multifaith, large Jewish and Catholic communitiesMultifaith, significant Catholic community, growing Buddhist and Hindu communities

While both New York City and Los Angeles are known for their liberal political leanings, the way politics play out locally can differ. For instance, you may find that local issues that dominate New York politics, such as public transportation and housing density, shift focus toward environmental issues and homelessness in Los Angeles. Religiously, both cities are home to a diverse population. However, Los Angeles offers a more pronounced diversity in faith, seeing a significant presence of Buddhist and Hindu communities amid its large Catholic base. Whether you’re deeply engaged in your city’s political discourse or invested in finding a religious community that feels like home, both cities offer an expansive landscape to explore.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from New York City to Los Angeles

Moving from New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two metropolitan giants. This comparison will help you get a better grasp of what your daily commute and traffic might look like.

New York CityLos Angeles
4253

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

89

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

106

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesNo

Can you get by without car?

While both New York City and Los Angeles bear reputations for heavy traffic, the nature and management of your commute in these cities can vary significantly. In New York City, the robust public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis, allows for a car-free lifestyle, which is a rarity in Los Angeles. However, Los Angeles has been making strides in improving its public transportation network, indicating a potential shift. Still, the sprawl of LA makes owning a car almost a necessity for convenience and access to certain areas. Traffic congestion in LA tends to be more severe, especially during peak hours, making commute times longer on average compared to New York City. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone adjusting to the pace and lifestyle in either city.

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