California to Idaho Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Idaho

ConsCalifornia

• High cost of living
• Traffic congestion
• High taxes
• Drought conditions

ProsIdaho

• Affordable housing
• Less traffic
• Lower taxes
• Ample greenery

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Idaho

• Fewer cultural events
• Landlocked state
• Colder winters
• Fewer major parks

California

• Rich cultural scene
• Ocean access
• Diverse climate
• Variety of national parks

Pros of moving from California to Idaho

• Say goodbye to the high cost of living and hello to affordable housing
• Look forward to moving away from traffic congestion and moving to Idaho with less traffic
• Swap the high taxes of California for lower taxes in Idaho
• Get ready for ample greenery in Idaho

Cons of moving from California to Idaho

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from the rich cultural scene in California to live with fewer cultural events in Idaho
• You'll lose out on the pro of ocean access and have to settle with the con of being a landlocked state
• Time to bid farewell to a diverse climate and get used to colder winters in Idaho
• Swap the variety of national parks for fewer major parks

California vs. Idaho: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from California to Idaho, you will be trading the iconic Avocado Toast of California for the equally delicious Idaho Potatoes of Idaho. And while the locals in California rave about their flavorful Tri-tip BBQ and sumptuous Fish Tacos, Idaho residents know they have tasty Idaho Lamb and Finger Steaks to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Plant-based Burgers they've grown to love, they can get ready for the Quinoa Salad of Idaho. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic California eateries like Chez Panisse, N/Naka, and The French Laundry. After the boxes are unpacked in Idaho, don't wait too long before making your way to Idaho's acclaimed eateries like State & Lemp, Fork, and Westside Drive-In.

When comparing lifestyles, Idaho shows less emphasis on fitness and health consciousness than California. Food truck fans will discover a less desirable selection in Idaho compared to what you are used to in California. Also, the overall foodie scene is less bustling in Idaho.

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between California and Idaho

• The Spanish and Modern architecture that California is known for will be replaced with the Craftsman and Ranch architecture typical of Idaho.
• Compared to California's real estate listings that commonly reference ocean views and solar panels, Idaho real estate listings often highlight features like mountain views and big yards.
• You can keep your walking shoes packed away; Idaho is less walkable than California.
• You might want to think twice before moving your bike; Idaho is less bike-friendly than California.
• Idaho has less of an urban feel than California.
• Idaho housing costs are 42% less expensive than they are in California, with a median home price of $451,298 compared to California’s $783,666.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in Idaho have increased by 69% compared to a 42% increase in California.
• Rent in Idaho is 40.75% more affordable than in California.

Your Move, Your Forecast: Key Weather Differences between California and Idaho

• The shades won't be used as much for your move from California to Idaho. Idaho gets 28% fewer sunshine days than California.
• Idaho has higher humidity and a lower average UV index compared to California.
• Say goodbye to the possible earthquakes and wildfires in California, but be on the lookout for potential wildfires and flooding in Idaho.
• The average summer high temperature in Idaho is the same as California.
• The average winter lows in Idaho are 28 degrees colder than they are in California.
• Your umbrella might be neglected in Idaho. Idaho receives 4 fewer inches of rain compared to California.

Financial & Community Snapshot: California and Idaho

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in Idaho tend to earn about 20% less than in California
• The COLI in Idaho will be 33% lower than what you are used to living in California
• The state income tax in Idaho is 6.925% compared to 13.3% in California
• The affluence in Idaho is moderate compared to high in California
• The poverty level is low in Idaho compared to moderate in California
• In terms of homelessness, it is significant in California and minimal in Idaho

Political and Religious Climate in California vs. Idaho

• California tends to lean Liberal/Democratic in its political climate
• Idaho, on the other hand, is often described as Conservative/Republican
• Idaho's religious environment can be described as more religious, with Christianity being predominant
• California's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as more diverse, with a significant number of non-religious residents

Education Guide When Moving from California to Idaho

How Much Do California to Idaho Movers Cost?

Moving 908 miles from California to Idaho will typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.