Colorado to California Moving Cost Calculator
Moving from Colorado to California covers about 1,118 miles. Most full-service movers charge between $3,010 and $7,000 for a typical 2 to 3 bedroom move. Prices vary based on inventory size, services like packing, and how flexible your moving dates are.
Use the moving cost calculator below to estimate your price based on your home size, services, and timing.
Going the other way? See our moving from California to Colorado guide.
Colorado to California cost breakdown by home size
The table below shows estimated moving costs from Colorado to California across common home sizes and move types. These ranges reflect typical pricing for a 1,118-mile interstate move.
Most common cost: A typical 2–3 bedroom move from Colorado to California costs about $3,010 to $7,000 with professional movers.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $3,040 to $5,470 | $1,530 to $2,500 | $870 to $1,530 |
| 2 bedrooms | $3,010 to $6,750 | $1,830 to $3,010 | $910 to $1,540 |
| 3 bedrooms | $4,220 to $7,000 | $2,010 to $3,440 | $990 to $1,880 |
| 4 bedrooms | $5,280 to $8,470 | $2,260 to $4,080 | $1,100 to $2,050 |
| 5 bedrooms | $5,390 to $9,220 | $2,780 to $4,590 | $1,160 to $2,110 |
These prices reflect typical prices for 1,118-mile moves between Colorado and California.
Your final cost depends on inventory, services, and date flexibility.
Cost factors when moving from Colorado to California
- How much you are moving: More rooms and more furniture usually means more labor, more truck space, and a higher total.
- Distance: Longer routes like Denver, CO to Los Angeles, CA generally cost more due to mileage and fuel.
- Dates and season: Summer and end-of-month windows often cost more, while flexible spring and fall dates can be cheaper.
- Services: Packing, bulky items, stairs, long carries, and storage can add meaningful cost.
- Move type: Rental trucks (e.g., U-Haul) can be cheaper but require more work, containers (e.g., U-Pack) can balance price and effort, full-service movers (e.g., Colonial Van Lines) maximize convenience.
- Pickup and delivery window: tighter windows can cost more than flexible delivery dates.
Get accurate estimates for your move from CO to CA
The fastest way to tighten your budget is to compare multiple quotes and make sure each mover is pricing the same scope of work.
- Get a walkthrough: In-home or virtual surveys help avoid missed items and surprise charges.
- Ask for a binding estimate: This reduces the risk of price increases after weigh-in.
- Compare at least three quotes: Look for consistent line items, not just the lowest total.
- Confirm fees: Ask about stairs, long carries, elevators, shuttle service, and packing materials.
- Verify timing: Get pickup and delivery windows in writing.
Learn more about the average cost of movers in Colorado .
Best movers for Colorado to California
To get the most accurate price for this route, compare a few full-service, interstate moving companies and DIY options before booking. Get at least 3 quotes and always verify the mover's USDOT number (FMCSA) before you book.
For your Colorado to California move, here are our top picks based on pricing reliability, flexibility, and overall value.
- Best full-service mover: Colonial Van Lines
- Best moving container: U-Pack
- Best rental truck: U-Haul
Living in Colorado vs. California
Every state is different, from cost of living to weather. Here are a few useful comparisons to consider before your move.
Cost of living
| Metric | Colorado | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,594 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $541,072 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $87,598 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | Not available | Not available |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 13.3% |
Weather
| Metric | Colorado | California |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 16" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 63" | 7" |
Demographics
| Metric | Colorado | California |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,877,610 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 54-46 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Crime index | 36.4 | 28.43 |
FAQs
What are the benefits of moving from Colorado to California?
Some of the benefits of moving from Colorado to California include:
- Ample economic opportunity
- Pleasant weather
- Abundant recreational options
- High quality of life
- Fresh and healthy foods
Who regulates interstate moves out of Colorado?
For interstate moves, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees safety regulations for moving companies that handle moves out of Colorado.
The FMCSA also requires moving companies to register through the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and maintain a USDOT number.
When is the worst time to move to California?
The worst time to move to California is during the summer months, when demand is highest and costs are often higher.
How far in advance should I book movers from Colorado to California?
Most people book between three and six months ahead, especially for summer moves.
Should I get in-home estimates for a move from Colorado to California?
Yes. A virtual or in-home walkthrough helps movers quote more accurately and reduces surprise fees.
What is the cheapest way to move from Colorado to California?
Renting a moving truck and doing the work yourself is usually the cheapest option, but it requires the most effort.
What should you do when you arrive in California?
Here are a few high-impact tasks to handle early:
- Forward your mail and update your address with banks, insurance, and tax agencies.
- Set up utilities in California including internet, electricity, water, and gas.
- Improve security by changing locks and testing smoke detectors.
- Register your car and update your driver’s license with the California DMV.
- Start exploring your neighborhood and meeting people.