Idaho to California Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from Idaho to California

ConsIdaho

• Harsh winters
• Limited job opportunities
• Less cultural diversity

ProsCalifornia

• Milder climate
• Thriving job market
• Diverse communities

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California

• Higher cost of living
• Urban congestion
• Fast-paced lifestyle

Idaho

• Low cost of living
• Open spaces
• Peaceful lifestyle

Pros of moving from Idaho to California

• Say goodbye to harsh winters and hello to a milder climate
• Look forward to moving away from limited job opportunities and moving to California with a thriving job market
• Swap the less cultural diversity of Idaho for diverse communities in California

Cons of moving from Idaho to California

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from the low cost of living in Idaho to live with a higher cost of living in California
• You'll lose out on the pro of open spaces and have to settle for the con of urban congestion
• Time to bid farewell to a peaceful lifestyle and get used to a fast-paced lifestyle in California

Idaho vs. California: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from Idaho to California, you will be trading the iconic Idaho Potatoes of Idaho for the equally delicious California Roll of California. And while the locals in Idaho rave about their flavorful Rocky Mountain Elk and sumptuous Finger Steaks, California residents know they have tasty Tri-tip barbecue and Fish Tacos to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Lentil Chili 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 Idaho eateries like State & Lemp, Fork, and Barbacoa Grill. After the boxes are unpacked in California, don't wait too long before making your way to California's acclaimed eateries like The Cheeseboard, The French Laundry, and n/naka.

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

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between Idaho and California

• The Ranch and Craftsman architecture that Idaho is known for will be replaced with the Spanish and Modern architecture typical of California.
• Compared to Idaho's real estate listings that commonly reference spacious yards and mountain views, California real estate listings often highlight features like ocean proximity and eco-friendly amenities.
• Make sure you unpack those walking shoes. California is more walkable than Idaho.
• Make sure the movers take care of your bike. California is more bike-friendly than Idaho.
• California has more of an urban feel than Idaho.
• California housing costs are 74% more expensive than they are in Idaho, with a median home price of $783,666 compared to Idaho’s $451,298.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in California have increased by 42% compared to a 69% increase in Idaho.
• Rent in California is 68.77% more expensive than in Idaho.

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

• Break out the sunglasses for your move from Idaho to California. California gets 39% more sunshine days than Idaho.
• California has higher humidity and a higher average UV index compared to Idaho.
• Say goodbye to the possible snowstorms and wildfires in Idaho, but be on the lookout for potential earthquakes and wildfires in California.
• Get ready for warmer summers. The average summer high temperature in California is 10 degrees warmer than in Idaho.
• The average winter lows are 29 degrees warmer than they are in Idaho.
• Your umbrella might be more overworked in California. California receives 4 more inches of rain compared to Idaho.

Financial & Community Snapshot: Idaho and California

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in California tend to earn about 26% more than those in Idaho
• The COLI in California is 49% higher than what you are used to living in Idaho
• The state income tax in CA is 13.3% compared to 6.925% in ID
• The affluence in California is wealthy compared to modest affluence in Idaho
• The poverty level is higher in California compared to moderate poverty in Idaho
• In terms of homelessness, it is low in Idaho and high in California

Political and Religious Climate in Idaho vs. California

• Idaho tends to lean conservative in its political climate
• California, on the other hand, is often described as having a liberal dominance
• California's religious environment can be described as a diverse religious landscape
• Idaho's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as predominantly Christianity

Education Guide When Moving from Idaho to California

How Much Do Idaho to California Movers Cost?

Moving 909 miles from Idaho to California 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.