Best Rhode Island to California Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Rhode Island to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,077 mile RI to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 288 Rhode Island to California moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Rhode Island compared to California. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Rhode Island to California Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3Two Men and a Truck8.298.79Authorized For Property
4G Metz Moving7.878.82Authorized For HHG
5Cunha Trucking & Moving Co Inc7.608.25Authorized For Property
6Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage7.256.44Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Rhode Island to California?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,077 miles from Rhode Island to California will cost on average $4,398 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom RI to CA move is roughly $10,640. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup in Rhode Island and dropoff in California as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve Rhode Island to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,947300 ft³$9.82
1 Bedroom$4,398450 ft³$9.77
2 Bedrooms$7,292750 ft³$9.72
3 Bedrooms$10,6401100 ft³$9.67
4 Bedrooms$15,3971600 ft³$9.62
5+ Bedrooms$17,2321800 ft³$9.57
*Please note: These Rhode Island to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Rhode Island & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed RI to CA mover.
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Compare the 6 Best RI to CA Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 7,662+ data points

1450 2nd St ste 225

Santa Monica, CA, 90401

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Very Good8.29/10
based on 289+ data points

205 Hallene Rd

Warwick, RI, 02886

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a national, full-service moving company with over 35 years of experience. Based in Lansing, MI,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3620733 / 1236673

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved3,532 (2022)
View Full Review
3
G Metz Moving Logo

G Metz Moving

Good7.87/10
based on 850+ data points

21a Mead St

Seekonk, MA, 02771

About G Metz Moving

G Metz Moving is a local, Seekonk-based business that helps customers move within Providence, across Rhode Island, and anywhere in the...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Small House Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2296800 / 787242

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved185,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Cunha Trucking & Moving Co Inc Logo

Cunha Trucking & Moving Co Inc

7.60/10
based on 129+ data points

55 Pawtucket Ave

Rumford, RI, 02916

About Cunha Trucking & Moving Co Inc

Cunha Trucking & Moving Company, based in East Providence, Rhode Island, offers a comprehensive range of moving services for residential and...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Mini storage moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

534973 / 76573

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage Logo

Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage

7.25/10
based on 1,989+ data points

222 Jefferson Blvd

Warwick, RI, 2888

About Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage

Started by two brothers in 2009, Correira Brothers’ Moving & Storage is a local family-owned business. With a corporate office in...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-Distance Movers
  • Commercial Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3095364 / 74304

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Rhode Island to California

Making a move from Rhode Island to California comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities . Our comparison aims to give an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. Here, we outline the benefits and drawbacks so you can better understand what to expect when shifting your lifestyle from Rhode Island to California .

CONs
PROs
Rhode Island iconRhode Island
  • Cold winters
  • Limited job market
  • Lack of entertainment options
  • High property taxes
  • Small state size
California iconCalifornia
  • Mild winters
  • Expansive job market
  • Abundant entertainment offerings
  • Lower property taxes
  • Diverse landscapes
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Earthquake risk
  • Overcrowded cities
  • Wildfire concerns
Rhode Island iconRhode Island
  • Coastal charm
  • Close-knit communities
  • Rich history
  • Quaint environment
  • Serene beaches

Moving from Rhode Island to California offers many new possibilities, especially when it comes to employment. California's booming industries in Silicon Valley and dynamic job market in Los Angeles provide expansive opportunities compared to Rhode Island. However, with more opportunities come higher living expenses. While Rhode Island provides coastal charm with serene beaches in places like Newport, California's diverse landscapes range from the crowded yet vibrant streets of San Francisco to the striking deserts of Palm Springs. Plus, while the winters are milder on the West Coast, it’s crucial to be mindful of the wildfire and earthquake risks particularly in areas such as the Bay Area. Moreover, California’s heavy traffic, especially in Los Angeles or San Diego, might be a stark contrast to Rhode Island’s more relaxed driving conditions.

Rhode Island vs. California Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Rhode Island & California aims to enrich your understanding of the food scene as part of the local culture and lifestyle in these areas. Whether you're a foodie or just curious, this guide will help you navigate the culinary differences as you plan your move.

Rhode Island
California
Most iconic local food item
Stuffies (Stuffed Quahogs)
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Grilled Clams
Tri-tip Steak
Most popular street food item
Hot Wieners
Street Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Del's Lemonade
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
    • Al Forno
    • Hemenway’s
    • Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House
    • Chez Panisse
    • Spago
    • El Coyote Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Rhode Island, seafood is the star of the local cuisine, with stuffies and grilled clams taking center stage. Hot wieners, a unique twist on traditional hot dogs, epitomize the state’s street food scene. For a more casual, vegan option, Del's Lemonade offers a refreshing treat. Dining at iconic restaurants like Al Forno in Providence can give you a genuine taste of the local flavors. Moving to California introduces you to a whole new palette where Mexican influences are prominent, especially in the form of fish tacos and street tacos. Health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, like the quintessential California avocado toast, are readily available across the state, notably in cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. California's vibrant foodie scene is broad and inclusive, offering something for everyone, from food truck aficionados to fine dining enthusiasts.

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Rhode Island vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating, and understanding how it differs between your current and future homes can significantly impact your decision. This comparison aims to highlight the important distinctions in housing between Rhode Island and California to assist in your move.

Rhode Island
California
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial and Victorian
Modern and Spanish
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Waterfront views, Historic details
Sustainability features, Smart home technology

When considering a move from Rhode Island to California, you'll notice significant differences in the housing market. The median home price and rent in California are substantially higher, reflecting the state's in-demand real estate market. However, California compensates with its modern and Spanish style architecture, higher walkability, and a more pronounced urban lifestyle, which might appeal to those seeking a vibrant city life. Furthermore, the emphasis in California real estate listings on sustainability features and smart home technology speaks to the state's forward-thinking mindset. Such distinctions underscore the importance of weighing your preferences and lifestyle when moving between these states.

Rhode Island vs. California Weather Considerations

If you're planning a move, understanding the climate differences is essential. This comparison will shed light on how the weather varies between Rhode Island and California, helping you adjust your expectations and prepare accordingly.

Rhode Island
California
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Hurricanes
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good
Variable
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82/63
85/60
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

40/20
68/48


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47
22
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

33
Rare/None


When moving from Rhode Island to California, one of the most appreciable differences you'll encounter is in the climate, particularly in terms of sun exposure and winter temperatures. California boasts significantly more sunny days, and its winters are milder compared to the colder, snowier Rhode Island seasons. This change means swapping snow shovels for sunscreen more often and preparing for different natural disaster risks, like earthquakes and wildfires, instead of blizzards and hurricanes. Understanding these differences allows for a smoother transition, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rhode Island to California

If you're planning a move from Rhode Island to California , it's crucial to compare the cost of living to what you are used to. This guide outlines key financial differences you'll encounter in areas such as income, taxes, and industry.

Rhode Island
California
Avg. Household Income
$81,854
$91,551
Cost of Living Index
123.3
136.4
State Income Tax
3.75 - 5.99
1 - 13.3
Avg. Property Tax
1.53
0.74
Avg. Sales Tax
7.0
7.25
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Varied
Homelessness
Low
High

When considering a move, you'll notice that California generally has a higher average household income compared to Rhode Island. However, the cost of living is significantly greater in California, with indexes reflecting that you may need to budget more for everyday expenses. State income tax in California can be as high as 13.3%, especially impacting higher income earners, in comparison to Rhode Island’s moderate rates. You'll also encounter differences in industry prominence; California thrives in technology and entertainment, whereas Rhode Island primarily relies on healthcare and education sectors. Understanding these nuances can better equip you for the financial realities of your new home.

Rhode Island vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents between Rhode Island & California, helping you understand the cultural landscape you're moving into.

Rhode Island
California
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Local government plays a significant role in community development
Local government initiatives often focus on environmental and social issues
Religion
Largely Catholic, with a mix of other Christian denominations
Diverse religious landscape, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu communities

When considering your move from Rhode Island to California, you’ll notice differences not just in the political leanings but in the way local politics shapes communities. Rhode Island’s political scene is lean Democratic, with local politics playing a substantial role in community matters. In comparison, California's political landscape is strongly Democratic, where local government initiatives often emphasize environmental sustainability and social equity. The religious makeup in Rhode Island is predominantly Catholic, reflecting a more homogeneous religious community, whereas California offers a vibrant mosaic of religious beliefs, including a broad spectrum of Christian denominations and significant Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu communities. Moving to California, you'll find yourself in a rich tapestry of cultural and political perspectives.

Education Guide When Moving from Rhode Island to California

Moving from Rhode Island to California presents a significant change in many areas, including the educational landscape. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Rhode Island and California , we've put together this helpful chart. Whether your focus is on public or private education, this comparison will aid in making informed decisions for your family's educational journey.

Rhode IslandCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Rhode Island
Brown University
Rhode Island College
University of California
California State University
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Rockwell Elementary
Barrington
Hamilton Elementary
North Kingstown
Community Elementary
Cumberland
Point Vicente Elementary
Rancho Palos Verdes
Murphy Ranch Elementary
Whittier
La Cañada Elementary
La Cañada Flintridge

Top 3 Middle Schools

Barrington Middle
Barrington
Archie R. Cole Middle
East Greenwich
Narragansett Pier Middle
Narragansett
Henry M. Gunn High
Palo Alto
Carmel Valley Middle
San Diego
Sierra Canyon School
Chatsworth

Top 3 High Schools

Classical High
Providence
Barrington High
Barrington
East Greenwich High
East Greenwich
Lowell High
San Francisco
Torrance High
Torrance
Palo Alto High
Palo Alto

Top 3 private high schools

Moses Brown School
Providence
St. George's School
Newport
The Wheeler School
Providence
Harvard-Westlake School
Studio City
Phillips Academy
Andover
The Thacher School
Ojai

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Lincoln School
Providence
Rhode Island Country Day
East Providence
Providence Country Day School
East Providence
Stanford Online High School
Stanford
The Geffen Academy at UCLA
Los Angeles
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
Santa Monica

Top 3 School Districts

Barrington Public Schools
East Greenwich Public Schools
Lincoln School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
La Cañada Unified School District

When comparing educational options between Rhode Island and California, several key differences stand out. For instance, in terms of higher education, Rhode Island has prestigious institutions like Brown University, while California is home to top-tier universities such as Stanford and a broad selection of University of California campuses. The quality and particular focus of elementary and high schools also vary significantly. For example, schools like Barrington Middle in Rhode Island are highly rated for their comprehensive education, while California boasts specialized schools like the Stanford Online High School, which provides a unique approach to learning. These distinctions highlight the diversity and specialized opportunities available in California’s education system compared to Rhode Island, enabling you to tailor education closely to your child's needs and aspirations.

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