Moving to California: A Comprehensive and Pro Guide to Costs and What to Expect
California is one of the most sought-after destinations in the United States and not just the area of 90210 thanks to the TV show..
From its sunny cliff beaches and perfect wine vineyards to its tech hubs in Silicon Valley and the entertainment spots of Los Angeles, California offers a wide variety of lifestyles and fun.
Whether you’re moving to California for work, school, a change of scenery, or the promise of a new adventure or fame, it’s essential to understand the costs and challenges of relocating to this sunny state.
Why Move to California?
Beyond the obvious draw ins such as the beaches and proximity to fame, California has long been a land of opportunity and dreams.
The state is home to a range of industries, including entertainment, technology, agriculture, and tourism. Its natural beauty and opportunities make it a draw for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Here are a few reasons why you might be considering moving to California:
- Career: With its growing economy in multiple industries, California is a great place for job seekers, even right out of college. Whether you’re pursuing a career in entertainment, tech, healthcare, or education, California has a variety of options for both entry-level and experienced professionals.
- Diversity: California is one of the most diverse states in the U.S., with communities representing cultures from all around the world. This diversity is reflected in the food, festivals, and cultural events that make California unique. You can expect ot see signs displayed in all languages.
- Natural Beauty: The state is known for its sunny and good weather in coastal areas, with deserts, mountains, forests, and national parks providing endless opportunities for outdoor activities. You can have it all in one day’s drive.
- University: California is home to some of the nation’s top universities, including Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA, making it the state for students seeking a high-quality education and fun lifestyle.
- Fun: Whether it’s surfing longboards on the Pacific Coast, hiking in Yosemite, getting tickets to a film premiere in Hollywood, or simply enjoying world-class sushi, California offers a lifestyle that’s hard to beat, if you can afford it.
The Costs of Moving to California
Moving to California, particularly from across the country, is an expensive process. Understanding the full costs involved, from hiring movers to housing, can help you plan better and avoid unpleasant surprises.
1. Moving Costs
- Hiring Professional Movers: The average cost for professional movers to move within California is between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on the distance, the size of your home, and the amount of belongings you need to transport. Long-distance moves, especially if you’re coming from out of state, range from $4000 to $8000.
- DIY: Renting a moving truck and doing everything yourself will lower the costs. For a local move, a truck rental could cost anywhere from $100 to $500 per day, not including gas or additional services like loading and unloading help. If you have family and friends who are keen, this is the way to save.
- Packing: You’ll also need to budget for packing materials like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Depending on the size of your move, expect to spend between $100 and $300 on these supplies on average. You can try and source some supplies for free to save.
- Storage: If you need temporary storage while you search for a permanent home, storage units in California can cost anywhere from $75 to $300 per month, depending on the size and location.
2. Housing Costs
Housing costs in California are among the highest in the country, with some cities in the top ranks for the most expensive places to live in the U.S.
Rent:
- Los Angeles: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles is approximately $2,800 per month.
- San Francisco: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco ranges from $3,000 to $6,500 per month.
- San Diego: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is typically $3,200 per month.
- Sacramento: The capital of California offers slightly lower rent prices, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,600 to $2,500 per month.
If you’re planning to buy your next home, the average home price in California is $800,000, though this varies widely by area.
3. Utilities and Monthly Expenses
- Electricity and Gas: The average monthly cost for electricity and gas in California can range from $150 to $300, depending on the size of your home and whether you use air conditioning during the summer.
- Water: Water bills typically run between $50 and $100 per month, though it can be higher in places where water conservation efforts are significant, such as parts of Southern California.
4. Food and Groceries
- Groceries: The average cost of groceries for a single person in California is $250 to $400 per month. This varies depending on where you shop and whether you buy organic or other special items at the grocer.
- Eating Out: If you enjoy dining out, be prepared for higher-than-average restaurant prices. A casual meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost between $15 to $30 per person, and more nicer dining can run you upwards of $100 per person.
5. Healthcare
Healthcare costs in California vary depending on your insurance coverage. If you have employer-sponsored insurance, premiums can range from $300 to $500 per month for an individual. California also offers a state healthcare exchange through Covered California.
Pros and Cons of Living in California
We love Cali, but need to remain realistic.
Pros
- So Many Career Opportunities: California’s growing economy offers opportunities in industries such as technology, entertainment, tourism, and more. Its a perfect place to start your post-student life.
- Climate: The weather in California is often one of the main perks, especially along the coast. Some say you can count on 65 F no matter what.
- Natural Beauty: From cliffs to beaches to mountains to national parks, California is paradise. Hands down one of the best places to live.
Cons
- High Cost of Living: Housing, utilities, and general expenses can be a challenge, especially for those moving from more affordable areas cross-country.
- Traffic: California’s major cities are notorious for heavy traffic.
- Taxes: California has one of the highest state income taxes in the U.S., which can significantly reduce your paycheck.
Final Thoughts Before Fame
Moving to California is an exciting, life-changing decision, but it comes with its own challenges, particularly in terms of costs. If your salary allows, take the leap of faith and enjoy your best sunny Cali dreams. Understanding the moving expenses, housing market, and general cost of living can help you plan your transitioning.
While the state of CA offers incredible opportunities and a high quality of life, it’s important to budget carefully. Don’t be simply drawn in by the famous mansions and chances to make it big, plan things out level-headed to make your move a success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are green flags in moving companies?
Transparency and honesty is what you will find in reputable California movers like Pricing Van Lines. Even if a mover isn’t perfect, what matters most is that they are clear and honest with you that they won’t meet your expectations.
Honesty over price is always important. Use trusted and affordable movers for your home with Pricing Van Lines to get there stress free.
How long does it actually take to pack up a bedroom?
This depends on factors such as size, clutter, clothing preferences, and other items. It’s more of a question for yourself if you plan to declutter and go Marie Condo or if you plan to throw everything in a box and call it a day—plan according to this. Don’t forget to label as you go to make your unpacking life easier!
How do I start creating my own moving inventory list for my Cali move?
Pick up a pen and paper (or your iPhone) and begin. Start with the big items and work through the small household items in every room. Keep a tally and write everything down along with photo evidence.
Count the number of beds, bed frames, tvs, and so on so that you can hold your mover accountable and know what you have to work with. Make sure you get rid of things that won’t fit your new California home.
What’s the best way to clean my old home before moving to the new one?
First, you’ll need all the items out and packed up. Don’t even try cleaning room by room as you pack, or you’ll end up exhausting yourself and cleaning the same place multiple times. Things get dirty from boxes and tape.
Embrace it and stack your cartons in a central place that allows you to Dyson and mop all the floors once fully packed up. Wipe down shared surfaces such as countertops and the insides of drawers. You can always hire a cleaning crew post-move if you don’t have time and energy.
Where can I find cardboard boxes in CA?
There are ways to purchase or source free cartons in CA. Most movers are happy to deliver you boxes for a fee when you book with them. You can also buy them at hardware stores.
Another option is to go to chain and grocery stores and request their boxes from their daily deliveries for free. California is big into recycling so you shouldn’t have trouble finding cartons.
