Best Vermont to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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VT to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state embodies an exciting adventure, signaling not just a change of address but a leap into a new chapter of your life. You might be trading Vermont's serene Green Mountains and quaint small towns for California's sun-soaked beaches, vast deserts, and bustling cities - a journey from the Maple State to the Golden State that's as diverse in landscapes as it is in lifestyles. Recognizing the magnitude of this long-distance move, it's crucial to trust your belongings and memories with professional movers who have been meticulously ranked by us at Great Guys Moving, ensuring you're supported by the most reliable and trustworthy experts in the business.

Vermont iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Vermont to California Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Lowell's Moving & Storage9.07A+Authorized For HHGContact
Grunts Move Junk8.67A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.18NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Normandeau Trucking7.70NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Vermont guide.

6 Best VT 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 12/17/2024)

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 12/17/2024)

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
Lowell's Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.07/10
based on 320+ data points

About Lowell's Moving & Storage

Lowell’s Moving & Storage has been servicing Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, and all of New England for over 20 years. This local, fam...Read More >>

Services

  • Full-service local and long-distance moving
  • Packing services
  • Storage services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1653526 / 760170

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved72,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Grunts Move Junk Logo
Fabulous8.67/10
based on 744+ data points

About Grunts Move Junk

Grunts Move Junk is a veteran-owned and operated moving and junk hauling company that has been servicing Central Vermont since 2014. Known f...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Residential moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3213405 / 1072793

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Very Good8.18/10
based on 162+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a national full-service moving company based in the United States that has been in operation for over 35 years. The c...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3547916 / 1187131

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
N
Good7.70/10
based on 27+ data points

About Normandeau Trucking

Normandeau Trucking is a family-owned moving company based in Groveton, New Hampshire, serving customers in New Hampshire, Vermont, and beyo...Read More >>

Services

  • local moving
  • full service moves
  • long distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

355208 / 350756

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved163,000 (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 Vermont to California

Moving from one state to another can be a monumental decision. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of Vermont to California relocation, highlighting both the advantages and challenges. It's about understanding not just where you're coming from, but more importantly, where you're headed. By examining the cons and pros through organized charts, you're better prepared to weigh your decision carefully.

CONs
PROs
Vermont iconVermont
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller economy
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower population density
California iconCalifornia
  • Sunnier days
  • Larger job market
  • Varied food scene
  • More networking opportunities
California iconCalifornia
  • Heavier traffic
  • Higher cost of living
  • More urban
  • Less seasonal variation
Vermont iconVermont
  • Quiet rural life
  • Tighter-knit communities
  • Lush green landscapes
  • Abundant outdoor activities

While Vermont offers a serene, community-focused lifestyle, moving to California opens up a diverse tapestry of cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities. For instance, in California, the plethora of dining options ranging from high-end restaurants like The French Laundry in Napa Valley to bustling, diverse food scenes in areas like Los Angeles' Grand Central Market showcases its rich culinary diversity. Moreover, California's famed national parks such as Yosemite offer unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor adventures, far surpassing Vermont’s already impressive outdoor offerings. However, this comes with the caveat of adapting to the state’s higher cost of living and navigating its bustling urban environments. Yet, for many, the trade-off is well worth the wealth of opportunities and experiences found in the Golden State.

Vermont vs. California Food Guide

When planning a move, understanding the local food culture is key to feeling at home. In this guide, we will compare the local cuisine between Vermont & California to help you get a taste of what each has to offer. This comparison will give you a glimpse into the culinary world you’re about to dive into.

VermontCalifornia
Most iconic local food itemMaple SyrupAvocado Toast
Most popular meat dishMaple Glazed HamTri-tip Steak
Most popular street food itemCheese CurdsFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodMaple Cashew CheeseGrilled Veggie Bowls
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Hen of the Wood
  • Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge
  • The Daily Planet
  • The French Laundry
  • Gjelina
  • n/naka
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Vermont, the sweet touch of maple syrup infuses much of its cuisine, making it unforgettable for anyone with a sweet tooth, while California’s vibrant food scene is heavily influenced by its multicultural community and abundant local produce. Vermont might surprise you with its vegan offerings, like maple cashew cheese found in local farmers' markets. California, on the other hand, boasts a vast array of vegan restaurants and health-conscious eateries, especially in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Legendary spots like The French Laundry in Napa Valley offer an upscale dining experience that embodies California's farm-to-table ethos. Whether you’re craving the comforting flavors of Vermont or the fresh, innovative dishes of California, both states offer distinctive culinary adventures awaiting your palate.

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Vermont vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial, especially considering the vast differences between Vermont and California. This comparison aims to highlight aspects such as cost, living style, and amenities to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonVermontCalifornia
Typical Architecture StyleCape Cod, ColonialSpanish, Mid-Century Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingScenic Views, PrivacyProximity to the ocean, Smart home features

The stark contrast in housing costs between Vermont and California reflects the broader cost of living and lifestyle differences; California's higher median home price and rent mirror its vibrant urban lifestyle and demand for housing. While Vermont is revered for its epic rural charm and privacy, reflected in its popular real estate listings, California's allure lies in its sunny beaches and modern amenities. Interestingly, both states offer unique architectural styles that cater to various preferences, from the quaint Cape Cod homes of Vermont to California's sleek mid-century modern dwellings. Regardless of where you choose to move, weighing these factors against your preferences and budget is crucial.

Vermont vs. California Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires understanding various aspects, especially the weather. If you're planning to relocate, comparing the weather patterns between Vermont and California is crucial. This guide will help you grasp what to expect climate-wise, and ensure you're prepared for your new home.

Summer icon
80°F/59°F

Vermont

85°F/60°F

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
27°F/10°F

Vermont

68°F/48°F

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37"

Vermont

22" (varies widely by region)

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
89"

Vermont

Varies (0" in south, significant in mountain regions)

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonVermontCalifornia
Air QualityGoodVaries widely
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

As you transition from Vermont's crisp autumns and snowy winters to California's sunny shores and arid deserts, you'll experience a drastic shift in weather. The stark contrast in the number of sunny days alone—158 in Vermont versus 284 in California—highlights the difference. Additionally, transitioning from Vermont's higher humidity and significant snowfall to the varying climate zones and air quality concerns in California might necessitate adjustments in your daily life, from wardrobe changes to possible new allergies. Understanding these changes will aid in your adaptation and comfort as you make California your new home.

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

When relocating from one place to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications of your move. This comparison will help illustrate the differences in money and finance between Vermont and California, ensuring you are well-informed about your new environment.

ComparisonVermontCalifornia
Avg. Household Income$73,991$91,551
Cost of Living Index120.5136.4
State Income Tax3.35 - 8.751 - 13.3
Avg. Property Tax1.830.77
Avg. Sales Tax6.228.56
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Tourism, AgricultureTechnology, Entertainment, Agriculture
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessModerateSignificant

Moving from Vermont to California, you're transitioning into a state with a higher average household income, yet also facing a notably higher cost of living. California’s diverse economy, led by technology, entertainment, and agriculture, offers vast opportunities but comes with its financial challenges, such as the highest state income tax rate in the country. Despite California's affluence, it's important to note the significant homelessness and high poverty rates, underscoring the economic disparities within the state. Adjusting to California's financial landscape requires careful planning and budgeting to ensure a smooth transition.

Vermont vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Vermont to California, it's beneficial to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between Vermont & California, which are crucial elements shaping local culture and societal interactions.

VermontCalifornia
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on environmental and social issuesStrong emphasis on social justice, environment, and innovation
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedDiverse religious landscape

Vermont and California share a liberal and Democratic political leaning, but the way politics plays out locally can vary significantly between the two. In Vermont, you might find a stronger focus on environmental preservation and social issues at the community level, mirrored by the state's many local businesses and organizations. California, while also valuing environmental initiatives, is a hotspot for social justice movements and technological innovation, thanks to its diverse and populous cities. The religious landscape in California is considerably more varied than Vermont's, reflecting its vast cultural diversity. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate and contribute to your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Vermont to California

Moving from Vermont to California brings a significant change across various aspects, including education. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Vermont and California , we have outlined the differences below. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of educational environments and opportunities in both states.

VermontCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Vermont
St. Michael's College
Middlebury College
University of California (Los Angeles)
University of Southern California
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Lowell Graded School
Shelburne Community School
Killington Elementary School
Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Village School (Pacific Palisades)
Chadbourne Elementary School (Fremont)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Shelburne Community School
Edmunds Middle School (Burlington)
Williston Central School
Henry M. Gunn Middle School (Palo Alto)
Miller Middle School (San Jose)
Carmel Valley Middle School (San Diego)

Top 3 High School Schools

South Burlington High School
Champlain Valley Union High School (Hinesburg)
St. Johnsbury Academy
Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto)
Torrey Pines High School (San Diego)
California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)

Top 3 private high schools

The Putney School
St. Johnsbury Academy
Burr and Burton Academy
Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
The Bishop’s School (La Jolla)
The Harker School (San Jose)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Mountain School (Vershire)
The Grammar School (Putney)
The Long Trail School (Dorset)
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)
The Athenian School (Danville)
Webb Schools (Claremont)

Top 3 School Districts

Chittenden South Supervisory Union
Burlington School District
Essex Westford School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
La Cañada Unified School District

When comparing the educational landscape between Vermont and California, certain nuances become evident. For instance, California stands out with its higher concentration of nationally ranked universities, including Stanford and UCLA, which attract a significant number of Vermont's high school graduates seeking prestigious higher education opportunities. On the other hand, Vermont's education system is characterized by its intimate learning environments and strong community engagement, as seen in the highly regarded local institutions like the University of Vermont and Middlebury College. This intimate setting can be particularly beneficial during the formative years of education, as seen in the state's top elementary and middle schools. Furthermore, California's diverse educational offerings, from elite private schools like Harvard-Westlake and The Harker School to innovative public schools such as the California Academy of Mathematics and Science, provide a wide array of opportunities for personal and academic growth. This comparison gives you a glimpse into the educational richness and diversity awaiting you in both states.

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