Moving Cost in Los Angeles, CA (2025 Guide)

Moving to the center of the TV and entertainment industry, famous palm trees, stunning natural beauty, and a rich cultural melting pot attract many people.

Iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Disneyland, Griffith Observatory, and the Getty Museum ensure the City of Angels has plenty to offer if you’re considering relocating to L.A.

Before relocating to one of the most expensive cities in the United States, it’s crucial to budget and calculate the moving costs in Los Angeles to set proper expectations. 

The average cost of hiring movers in Los Angeles ranges from $110 to $140 per hour, which means the average moving cost is between $417 and $4,144.  

However, moving costs vary due to factors such as longer distances, the complexity of the move, the number of rooms, and the timing of the move.

Let’s examine the overall cost of professional movers in Los Angeles, the factors that influence these costs, how moving expenses in other major U.S. cities compare, and tips for saving money when budgeting for moving expenses. 

How Much Do Local Movers in Los Angeles Cost?

The average cost of hiring local movers in Los Angeles is $139 per hour.

This means the total cost of moving ranges between $417 and $4,144 for different sizes of homes and the time it takes to complete the move.  

The local moving services in L.A. vary because every move is unique.

No two moves are the same. In some cases, you’ll need sufficient packing supplies and moving boxes, while in others, you’ll require strong moving equipment to pack and lift valuable and oversized furniture safely.

Thus, before packing your bags, use a moving cost calculator to find estimates and establish realistic moving budgets and expectations.  

Here is a breakdown of the moving expenses you can expect when relocating to Los Angeles. 

Long-Distance Moving Cost from Los Angeles to Other Major U.S. Cities

Whether you are relocating from the City of Angels for work or just seeking a change of scenery, diversity, pleasant weather, and affordable cost of living, successfully managing long-distance moves requires considerable effort and financial planning. 

Here’s how much a moving service in L.A. will cost when moving across states or counties.  

Average Moving Cost from Los Angeles to San Francisco, CA

The average cost of moving from L.A. to San Francisco ranges from $1,194 to $4,700.

The time required to complete this 383-mile move averages between 6 and 18 hours, depending on the size of the move.

The moving cost will largely depend on the number of additional movers you hire, fuel charges, and the complexity of the move.  

Average Moving Cost from Los Angeles to Phoenix, AZ

The average cost of hiring a moving company in Los Angeles to move you 373 miles to Phoenix is between $2,990 and $7,100.

The cost is not fixed, as it depends on the weight and number of your items, the number of rooms to move, additional movers, and lodging expenses.

The move might take 1-2 days to complete.  

Average Moving Cost from Los Angeles to Houston, TX

Local movers will cost between $3,108 and $10,500 on average for an approximately 1548-mile move from L.A. to Houston.

The price varies as the move takes 2-4 days to complete.

The final moving cost depends on the additional services you add, lodging and fuel charges, or when a heavy item is involved.  

Average Moving Cost from Los Angeles to New York City, NY

The flat-rate movers in Los Angeles typically charge between $7,100 and $16,680 for an average 2,777-mile move to NYC.

Costs can vary due to logistical challenges, any extra services or movers, and the volume of your belongings.

Whether you handle the move yourself or hire professionals, this cross-state relocation will require at least 5 days. 

5 Factors Impacting the Moving Cost in Los Angeles 

The moving cost depends on various variables affecting the move. The hourly cost of moving your home in or out of Los Angeles is not fixed and may exceed due to the following reasons:

1. Distance of the Move

Moving locally is more affordable than long-distance moves.

The costs for moving within 100 miles of Los Angeles can vary, whereas a move beyond 100 miles will be costly.  

2. Additional Services or Access Fees

The cost will differ when relocating from a condo compared to a two-bedroom apartment or a townhouse.

A mover in Downtown Los Angeles will charge additional fees when the move involves complications like flights of stairs, longer driveways, elevator restrictions, the weight of the items, or an additional mover.

Your bill can also significantly increase if you include other specialty items, such as moving a piano or packing artwork, storage service, and junk removal services. 

3. Moving Time

Summer is the peak season when you can expect to pay 20-30% more due to higher-than-average moving costs.

The busiest months for moving are from May to September when relocations occur at their highest rate.

Conversely, expect to pay less to Los Angeles movers between October and April. Therefore, it is important to know the best and worst months for moving. 

4. Tipping Movers

Although tipping movers is subjective, it is typical for people to tip between 10% and 20% of the total bill after using moving services.

This suggests that your moving budget can vary when you tip an average of $30 to $50 per mover. 

5. Moving Insurance

Another significant factor affecting your moving costs in Los Angeles is purchasing moving insurance.

While some movers include insurance in their fees, in most cases, you’ll need to purchase additional coverage to safeguard your items against potential damage during transportation. 

6 Tips on How to Cut Down on Moving Costs 

Moving is a significant process that requires both time and money.

However, you can use both wisely when you plan your move in advance.

Here are a few tips that can help you reduce your moving expenses, if not entirely, at least partially, so you don’t strain your budget. 

1. Try Arranging Free Moving Boxes and Supplies 

If you have valuable items to pack, consider looking for moving boxes from the best places nearby to avoid any damage.

However, if you’re moving shorter distances with fewer items, skip spending on expensive moving supplies.

You can check the nearest retail stores, fruit or grocery stores, or local shops that regularly discard cardboard boxes.

Additionally, ask your friends and family for any extra bags and supplies to save some money.  

2. Shed What You Don’t Need

Less is indeed more. The weight and volume of your items also increase your moving expenses to some extent.

Hence, a few weeks before your moving day, it is time to declutter your home, dispose of old furniture, donate your stuff to a charity home, or sell your items online to make some money. 

3. Move During the Off-Season 

Planning your move during off-peak months (October to May) can help you find affordable moving services in Los Angeles.

Another tip is to schedule your move on weekdays, particularly from Monday to Thursday in the middle of the month, as the start and end of the month are peak moving times.

4. Leverage Discounts

Many moving companies provide discounts for students, military personnel, seniors, AAA members, or seasonal promotions.

Additional discounts may include referrals or repeat customers. 

5. Do-It-Yourself (DIY Packing)

A full-time moving company in Los Angeles typically offers packing, furniture assembly and disassembly, loading, and unloading services.

As a result, the moving costs will be higher than if you moved yourself.

However, if you choose a labor-only relocation service and pack your belongings yourself, your moving costs can significantly decrease.

6. Compare Multiple Quotes from Movers

Don’t limit yourself to one moving company after your conversation with them.

Compare quotes from at least three movers to understand their services, hourly rates, and overall pricing structure.

Finding the right moving company is crucial—one that demonstrates professionalism, punctuality, and integrity. Additionally, confirm the costs of extra services or heavy item fees well to avoid hidden charges and surprises later.  

Final Thoughts 

Moving can be a lengthy and expensive endeavor. It’s essential to understand the costs associated with a moving company.

When relocating to or from Los Angeles, finding a reliable and professional mover can help ensure your move is stress-free.

To succeed, calculate your moving expenses well in advance, avoid peak moving seasons, and estimate the volume of items you plan to take.

Ultimately, a long-distance and complex move will incur higher costs than a local city move. 

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of living in Los Angeles, CA?

The average cost of living for a single person ranges from $3,800 to $4,550.

Due to expensive rentals, living costs in La La Land are higher than in other U.S. cities.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,405. 

2. Is L.A. more expensive than Toronto?

Yes, Los Angeles is 27.1% more expensive than Toronto. The average cost of living in Los Angeles ranges from $3,800 to $4,550 for a single person and from $7,500 to $9,100 for a family of four.

In contrast, the average cost of living in Toronto is between $3,500 and $4,000 for a single person and between $7,400 and $8,050 for a family of four.

3. How much does it cost to move a car in Los Angeles?

The average cost of transporting a vehicle in Los Angeles ranges from $700 to $1,500.

This cost varies based on several factors, including the car’s size and model (sedan vs. SUV), distance, time of year, and additional services.