Connecticut to California Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from Connecticut to California

ConsConnecticut

• Harsh winters
• Limited entertainment
• High property tax
• Rural areas
• Distance to ocean

ProsCalifornia

• Mild climate
• Endless activities
• Vibrant tech scene
• Urban living
• Beach access

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California

• Traffic congestion
• Higher cost of living
• Earthquake risks
• Wildfire threats
• Smog in cities

Connecticut

• New England charm
• Quiet suburbs
• Small-town feel
• Four seasons
• Cultural history

Pros of moving from Connecticut to California

• Say goodbye to harsh winters and hello to a mild climate
• Look forward to moving away from limited entertainment and moving to California with endless activities
• Swap the high property tax of Connecticut for a vibrant tech scene in California
• Get ready for urban living in California

Cons of moving from Connecticut to California

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from New England charm in Connecticut to live with traffic congestion in California
• You'll lose out on the pro of quiet suburbs and have to settle for the con of a higher cost of living
• Time to bid farewell to a small-town feel and get used to earthquake risks in California
• Swap four seasons for wildfire threats

Connecticut vs. California: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from Connecticut to California, you will be trading the iconic Lobster Roll of Connecticut for the equally delicious Fish Tacos of California. And while the locals in Connecticut rave about their flavorful Steamed Cheeseburger and sumptuous Hot Dogs, California residents know they have tasty Tri-tip Steak and Street Tacos to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Seitan Steaks they've grown to love, they can get ready for the Avocado Toast of California. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic Connecticut eateries like Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, Louis' Lunch, and The Ancient Mariner. After the boxes are unpacked in California, don't wait too long before making your way to California's acclaimed eateries like Chez Panisse, In-N-Out Burger, and The French Laundry.

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

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between Connecticut and California

• The Colonial and Cape Cod architecture that Connecticut is known for will be replaced with the Spanish Revival and Modern architecture typical of California.
• Compared to Connecticut's real estate listings, which commonly reference quiet neighborhoods and spacious backyards, California real estate listings often highlight features like proximity to tech hubs and ocean views.
• Make sure you unpack those walking shoes. California is more walkable than Connecticut.
• Make sure the movers take care of your bike. California is more bike-friendly than Connecticut.
• California has more of an urban feel than Connecticut.
• California housing costs are 99% more expensive than they are in Connecticut, with a median home price of $783,666 compared to Connecticut’s $393,802.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in California have increased 42% compared to a 55% increase in Connecticut.
• Rent in California is 36.71% more expensive than in Connecticut.

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

• Break out the sunglasses for your move from Connecticut to California. California gets 41% more sunshine days than Connecticut.
• California has lower humidity and a higher average UV index compared to Connecticut.
• Say goodbye to the possible snowstorms and hurricanes in Connecticut, but be on the lookout for potential earthquakes and wildfires in California.
• The average summer high temperature in California is 3 degrees warmer than in Connecticut.
• The average winter lows are 23 degrees warmer than they are in Connecticut.
• Your umbrella might be neglected in California. California receives 28 fewer inches of rain compared to Connecticut.

Financial & Community Snapshot: Connecticut and California

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in California tend to earn about 4% more than those in Connecticut
• The COLI in California will be 12% higher than what you are used to living in Connecticut
• The state income tax in CA is 1% to 13.3% compared to 3% to 6.99% in CT
• The affluence in California is varied compared to high in Connecticut
• The poverty level is varied in California compared to moderate in Connecticut
• In terms of homelessness, it is low in Connecticut and high in California

Political and Religious Climate in Connecticut vs. California

• Connecticut tends to lean Democrat in its political climate
• California, on the other hand, is often described as strongly Democrat
• California's religious environment can be described as diverse, with a significant number of non-religious residents
• Connecticut's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as a Christian majority, with Catholicism being predominant

Education Guide When Moving from Connecticut to California

How Much Do Connecticut to California Movers Cost?

Moving 2,994 miles from Connecticut to California will typically cost between $4,500 and $10,500 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.