Best California to Colorado Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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CA to CO Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the start of a thrilling new chapter in your life, filled with unique experiences and adventures. Leaving behind California's famed sun-soaked beaches and the allure of the Golden State for the rugged beauty and snowy landscapes of the Centennial State, Colorado, presents an exciting contrast. It's essential, however, to ensure this transition goes smoothly by choosing trusted and reliable professional movers—a task we at Great Guys Moving take seriously to connect you with the best options for your long-distance move.

California iconArrow iconColorado icon

Best California to Colorado Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.9.63NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Movemasters, Inc.9.58A+Authorized For HHGContact
Best California Movers9.52A+Authorized For HHGContact
Smooth Movers9.51A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Colorado to California guide.

6 Best CA to CO Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

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
Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

About Pure Moving

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

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

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
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,645+ data points

About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving back to the community....Read More >>

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3421940 / 1416634

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Movemasters, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.58/10
based on 3,188+ data points

About Movemasters, Inc.

Located in Denver and serving customers locally and statewide for close to 40 years, Movemasters Inc. values trust, reputation, and results....Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Household Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1290433 / 1550891

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans19
Registered Drivers23
Total Annual Miles Moved216,634 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Best California Movers Logo
Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Smooth Movers Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.51/10
based on 677+ data points

About Smooth Movers

Smooth Movers has over 100 years of combined moving experience. It is a locally owned and operated business helping people move into and out...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2630599 / 915454

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved110,000 (2022)
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 California to Colorado

Moving from one state to another can be a significant life event, and understanding the benefits and drawbacks is crucial. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from California to Colorado . By examining the various pros and cons, you'll be better prepared for what awaits in your new home.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • State income tax
  • Wildfire risk
Colorado iconColorado
  • More affordable living
  • Less congestion
  • Lower tax rates
  • Four distinct seasons
Colorado iconColorado
  • Less diversity
  • No coastal access
  • Smaller cities
  • Colder winters
California iconCalifornia
  • Diverse culture
  • Beaches and ocean
  • Vibrant cities
  • Year-round warm weather

While both California and Colorado offer unique lifestyles, your experience will vary significantly depending on what you value most. In California, you have access to iconic beaches like Venice Beach and bustling metropolitans like Los Angeles, which are full of diverse cultural experiences and cuisines. On the other hand, Colorado greets you with the stunning landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Cities like Denver offer a vibrant scene with destinations such as Larimer Square for shopping and dining. The adjustment from beach days to mountain hikes represents a change in lifestyle that could be refreshing and invigorating for many.

California vs. Colorado Food Guide

Deciding where to move involves many factors, and exploring the local food scene is undoubtedly thrilling. Food is an integral part of local culture and living experience. To aid in your decision, we will embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Colorado , offering insights into the culinary delights that await in your potential new home.

CaliforniaColorado
Most iconic local food itemFish tacosRocky Mountain Oysters
Most popular meat dishTri-tip steakBison burgers
Most popular street food itemTacosGreen Chili
Most popular vegan foodAvocado toastQuinoa salads
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Chez Panisse
  • The French Laundry
  • n/naka
  • Frasca Food and Wine
  • Beast + Bottle
  • Panzano
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Colorado, you'll find yourself immersed in a unique food scene that blends traditional American, Southwestern, and Rocky Mountain influences. Denver, particularly, boasts an exciting array of dining options, from the quintessential bison burger found at many local eateries to the innovative quinoa salads popular among the state's health-conscious residents. For those eager to dive into the Colorado dining experience, start with a visit to Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder for an exquisite Italian meal, or explore the vibrant street food scene in Denver, where green chili stands reign supreme. Whether you crave the comfort of a hearty meat dish or the freshness of vegan options, Colorado's diverse culinary landscape promises an enriching and delicious adventure.

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California vs. Colorado Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is pivotal to making an informed decision. Comparing California and Colorado in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability , and more, offers you a comprehensive view of what to expect and where you can find your next home.

ComparisonCaliforniaColorado
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish, ModernCraftsman, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean view, Sustainable featuresMountain view, Outdoor living space

When examining housing differences between California and Colorado, the contrast in median home prices and monthly rents is notable. California's higher cost of living is mirrored in its real estate prices. However, its architecture boasts a mix of Spanish and modern designs, often highlighting sustainable features and breathtaking ocean views. Conversely, Colorado offers a more affordable housing market, with typical Craftsman and Ranch-style homes that emphasize mountain views and outdoor living spaces. This focus on nature and affordability makes Colorado an appealing destination for many. Interestingly, both states offer a decent urban lifestyle, but with Colorado, you get more bang for your buck in terms of outdoor accessibility and home affordability.

California vs. Colorado Weather Considerations

Moving between states requires an understanding of many factors, especially the weather. When relocating from California to Colorado, it's essential to know how the climate differs. This will help you prepare for a smooth transition. The following charts compare weather conditions, offering a clear view of what to expect.

Summer icon
85°F / 58°F

California

86°F / 56°F

Colorado

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 48°F

California

45°F / 18°F

Colorado

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22

California

17

Colorado

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0-5 (Varies widely)

California

60 (Varies by location)

Colorado

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCaliforniaColorado
Air QualityVariableGenerally Good
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Comparing California and Colorado, one notable difference is the winter temperatures. Colorado experiences colder winters, making it a haven for snow sports enthusiasts. However, this also means you should prepare for heavier snowfall—Colorado sees significantly more snow annually than California. Colorado’s dryer climate with lower humidity can also affect your daily comfort and hydration needs. Planning for these differences will help ensure you’re well-equipped for your new home.

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

When considering a move from one state to another, it's vital to juxtapose financial aspects to gauge how your expenses might shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between California and Colorado, guiding your decision with clarity.

ComparisonCaliforniaColorado
Avg. Household Income$91,551$89,302
Cost of Living Index136.498.3
State Income Tax1-13.34.55 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax0.730.49
Avg. Sales Tax8.827.63
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Agriculture, EntertainmentAerospace, Bioscience, Information Technology
AffluenceHighModerate to high
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from California to Colorado can offer a significant financial advantage in terms of cost of living, where Colorado presents a more affordable living scenario with a lower cost index. Although the average household income is slightly lower in Colorado, the balanced state income tax and lower property taxes may provide more disposable income. Additionally, the diverse top industries in Colorado signal robust job opportunities similar to California, but possibly with a different focus. Understanding these differences can help set realistic expectations regarding your financial lifestyle in your new state.

California vs. Colorado Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between California & Colorado aims to offer a brief yet informative snapshot of what to expect in terms of political, religious, and local leadership variances. Understanding these differences will assist in smoothing your transition.

CaliforniaColorado
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticModerately Democratic
Local PoliticsLiberal urban centersMixed; liberal cities & conservative rural areas
ReligionMore varied; larger non-religious populationChristianity dominant, but diverse religious presence

In transitioning from California to Colorado, you'll notice the political landscape is somewhat different. Colorado, while moderately Democratic, presents a balanced mix of liberal and conservative areas, unlike California's predominantly liberal urban centers. This discrepancy may influence local policies, social programs, and community priorities. Additionally, while California boasts a large non-religious demographic, Colorado maintains a stronger Christian presence amidst its diverse religious communities. Embracing these nuances can enrich your living experience and enhance your understanding of the local culture.

Education Guide When Moving from California to Colorado

Moving states can bring about significant changes, especially when it comes to your children's education. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in California and Colorado . Whether you’re deciding on public or private education, the difference in academic environments can significantly impact your family's relocation experience.

CaliforniaColorado

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of California
Stanford University
California State University
University of Colorado
Colorado State University
University of Denver

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Orion Academy (Redwood City)
Hawthorne Elementary (Beverly Hills)
Point Vicente Elementary (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Bromwell Elementary (Denver)
Cory Elementary (Denver)
Cherry Hills Village Elementary (Cherry Hills Village)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mill Valley Middle School (Mill Valley)
Canyon Charter School (Los Angeles)
Rancho San Joaquin Middle (Irvine)
Summit Middle Charter School (Boulder)
The Connect Charter School (Pueblo)
Denver School of the Arts (Denver)

Top 3 High School Schools

Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto)
Troy High School (Fullerton)
Whitney High School (Cerritos)
Cherry Creek High School (Greenwood Village)
Fairview High School (Boulder)
Denver School of the Arts (Denver)

Top 3 private high schools

Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter)
The Colorado Springs School (Colorado Springs)
Kent Denver School (Englewood)
Fountain Valley School (Colorado Springs)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Stanford Online High School (Stanford)
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)
The Archer School for Girls (Los Angeles)
Colorado Academy (Denver)
Vail Mountain School (Vail)
Dawson School (Lafayette)

Top 3 School Districts

San Marino Unified School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
La Cañada Unified School District
Boulder Valley School District
Cherry Creek School District
Littleton Public Schools

When comparing educational options in California and Colorado, it's evident that both states offer exceptional educational institutions, each with its unique strengths. California is renowned for its top-ranking universities and innovative educational programs, laying a strong foundation for higher education and beyond. Schools like Stanford University and the University of California system stand out as prestigious options for post-secondary education. Meanwhile, Colorado excels with exemplary public schools, particularly noted in areas like Boulder and Denver, ensuring a rich educational experience from elementary through high school. For families considering private education, both states boast an impressive lineup of private institutions that offer rigorous academic programs.California State University and University of Colorado respectively highlight the diverse opportunities available to suit each family's needs.

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