Maine to California Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from Maine to California

ConsMaine

• Harsh winters
• Limited job market
• Isolated areas
• Fewer entertainment options
• Sparse population

ProsCalifornia

• Mild winters
• Diverse job opportunities
• Cultural diversity
• Vibrant nightlife
• Expansive cities

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California

• Crowded beaches
• Busy urban life
• High living costs
• Expensive dining
• Heavy traffic

Maine

• Beautiful coastline
• Quiet lifestyle
• Close-knit communities
• Famous seafood
• Ample outdoor activities

Pros of moving from Maine to California

• Say goodbye to harsh winters and hello to mild winters
• Look forward to moving away from a limited job market and moving to California with diverse job opportunities
• Swap the isolated areas of Maine for cultural diversity in California
• Get ready for vibrant nightlife in California

Cons of moving from Maine to California

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from the beautiful coastline in Maine to live with crowded beaches in California
• You'll lose out on the pro of a quiet lifestyle and have to settle with the con of a busy urban life
• Time to bid farewell to close-knit communities and get used to the high living costs in California
• Swap famous seafood for expensive dining

Maine vs. California: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from Maine to California, you will be trading the iconic Lobster Roll of Maine for the equally delicious Sushi of California. And while the locals in Maine rave about their flavorful Lobster and sumptuous Italian Sandwich, California residents know they have tasty Taco and Fish Taco to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Blueberry Pie (vegan versions) 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 Maine eateries like Eventide Oyster Co., Fore Street, and The Lost Kitchen. After the boxes are unpacked in California, don't wait too long before making your way to California's acclaimed eateries like Chateau Marmont, Gjelina, and In-N-Out Burger.

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

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between Maine and California

• The Cape Cod and Colonial architecture that Maine is known for will be replaced with the Spanish and Modern architecture typical of California.
• Compared to Maine's real estate listings that commonly reference waterfront and privacy, California real estate listings often highlight features like sustainable options and tech integrations.
• Make sure you unpack those walking shoes. California is more walkable than Maine.
• Make sure the movers take care of your bike. California is more bike-friendly than Maine.
• California has more of an urban feel than Maine.
• California housing costs are 100% more expensive than they are in Maine, with a median home price of $783,666 compared to Maine’s $392,358.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in California have increased by 42% compared to a 70% increase in Maine.
• Rent in California is 50.08% more expensive than in Maine.

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

• Break out the sunglasses for your move from Maine to California. California gets 42% more sunshine days than Maine.
• California has lower humidity and a higher average UV index compared to Maine.
• Say goodbye to the possible snowstorms and ice in Maine, 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 15 degrees warmer than in Maine.
• The average winter lows are 31 degrees warmer than they are in Maine.
• Your umbrella might be neglected in California. California receives 21 fewer inches of rain compared to Maine.

Financial & Community Snapshot: Maine and California

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in California tend to earn about 32% more than those in Maine
• The COLI in California will be 17% higher than what you are used to living in Maine
• The state income tax in CA is 13.3% compared to 7.15% in ME
• The affluence in California is high compared to moderate affluence in Maine
• The poverty level is moderate in California compared to low in Maine
• In terms of homelessness, it is low in Maine and high in California

Political and Religious Climate in Maine vs. California

• Maine tends to lean largely independent with a slight Democratic lean in its political climate
• California, on the other hand, is often described as predominantly Democratic
• California's religious environment can be described as diverse with Christianity as a major presence and significant non-religious and other faiths present
• Maine's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as predominantly Christianity, but with a high rate of non-affiliated individuals

Education Guide When Moving from Maine to California

How Much Do Maine to California Movers Cost?

Moving 3,233 miles from Maine to California will typically cost between $4,500 and $11,000 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.