Best Hawaii to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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HI to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life, unfolding countless opportunities and adventures. You might be swapping the laid-back island vibes and breathtaking natural beauty of the Aloha State for the dynamic and diverse landscapes of the Golden State, each with its own unique flavor, opportunities, and challenges. Therefore, the significance of entrusting your journey to reliable and professional movers cannot be overstated, and that’s where we, at Great Guys Moving, step in to guide you to the best moving services for this significant long-distance move.

Hawaii iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Hawaii to California Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Ewa Moving Co.8.29NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC7.94A+Authorized For HHGContact
Island Movers5.93A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Hawaii guide.

5 Best HI to CA 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
Ewa Moving Co. Logo
Very Good8.29/10
based on 209+ data points

About Ewa Moving Co.

Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving services in Oahu
  • Local moving services in Oahu
  • Hourly rate moving services in Oahu

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3786678 / 1601075

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo
Good7.94/10
based on 73+ data points

About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all Hawaii...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3396143 / 1265966

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2019)
View Full Review
4
Island Movers Logo
5.93/10
based on 1,157+ data points

About Island Movers

Multi-awarded Island Movers, Inc. has two locations in Hawaii, including one in Honolulu. The family-owned and operated business has over 60...Read More >>

Services

  • Personal Moves
  • Business Moves
  • Cheap Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

105271 / FF-60965 135534

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans110
Registered Drivers71
Total Annual Miles Moved765,803 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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 Hawaii to California

Moving from Hawaii to California represents a significant change. This comparison aims to reflect honestly the contrasts between Hawaii and California , showcasing both the challenging and rewarding elements of such a relocation. Through these charts, gain insights into what you may gain or miss in this transition.

CONs
PROs
Hawaii iconHawaii
  • High living costs
  • Isolation
  • Limited job market
  • Small space
  • Humidity
California iconCalifornia
  • Lower living costs
  • Better connectivity
  • Wider job opportunities
  • Larger spaces
  • Dryer climate
California iconCalifornia
  • Crowded beaches
  • Urban landscapes
  • Variable climate
  • Less cultural immersion
  • Diverse but different cuisine
Hawaii iconHawaii
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Lush landscapes
  • Warm climate
  • Strong culture
  • Local cuisine

While the cost of living in Hawaii might be higher, making the move to California allows you to enjoy a more diverse job market with opportunities in various industries such as tech, entertainment, and agriculture. However, you might find yourself missing the unique Hawaiian culture and its tight-knit community vibes. Places like Disneyland in California offer a different kind of entertainment compared to the natural serenity of Hawaii's state parks. Food enthusiasts moving to California can indulge in a myriad of global cuisines in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, yet they may long for Hawaii’s distinct local dishes found in places such as Helena's Hawaiian Food in Honolulu. Despite this, the transition presents a chance to explore vast landscapes from the bustling streets of Los Angeles Union Station to the picturesque views of the Sierra Nevada.

Hawaii vs. California Food Guide

Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new place, as food is a significant part of local culture and living experience. In this guide, we’ll explore a comparison of the local cuisine between Hawaii & California so that you can be better informed about what culinary delights await in your new home.

HawaiiCalifornia
Most iconic local food itemPokeCalifornia Roll
Most popular meat dishKalua PigTri-tip
Most popular street food itemSpam MusubiTacos
Most popular vegan foodTaro-Based DishesAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Leonard's Bakery
  • Mama's Fish House
  • Chez Panisse
  • n/naka
  • The French Laundry
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When transitioning from the islands of Hawaii to the eclectic state of California, you’ll discover a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape that mirrors the rich culture of each location. In Hawaii, places like Helena's Hawaiian Food offer traditional dishes that are a must-try, while Leonard’s Bakery is famous for its Malasadas. Meanwhile, California’s food scene is incredibly diverse, with Chez Panisse in Berkeley highlighting the farm-to-table movement and The French Laundry in Yountville providing an unmatched fine dining experience. Whether you’re craving the unique taste of a Poke bowl along Waikiki Beach or seeking the freshness of an Avocado Toast in a trendy Los Angeles café, both Hawaii and California offer distinctive culinary experiences that cater to every palate.

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Hawaii vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor in relocating. Understanding how Hawaii and California stack up against each other in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle elements like walkability or bikeability will help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the specifics to see how these two states compare.

ComparisonHawaiiCalifornia
Typical Architecture StylePlantation, ModernModern, Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean view, LanaiSolar panels, Eco-friendly

When comparing the real estate markets of Hawaii and California, it's clear that both locations demand a significant investment, yet they offer distinctly different lifestyles. In Hawaii, the emphasis on ocean views and outdoor living spaces like lanais reflects the island's close relationship with nature and its tropical climate. Conversely, California's listings highlight eco-friendly features such as solar panels, pointing towards a statewide emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness. Additionally, California's slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores might appeal to those seeking a more active urban lifestyle, though it's worth noting that such features vary significantly by specific location within each state.

Hawaii vs. California Weather Considerations

Understanding how the weather varies from Hawaii to California is crucial if you're contemplating a move. Weather comparison between Hawaii and California is essential to adjust expectations and prepare for the shift in climate. Both states offer unique weather patterns that can affect lifestyle choices, outdoor activities, and even your health.

Summer icon
85°F / 70°F

Hawaii

75°F / 55°F to 85°F / 65°F (varies by region)

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
78°F / 63°F

Hawaii

55°F / 40°F to 70°F / 50°F (varies by region)

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
17-40"

Hawaii

10-50" (varies by region)

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0" (except mountain tops)

Hawaii

0-400" (varies greatly by region)

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonHawaiiCalifornia
Air QualityGood to ModerateVaries widely; Major cities: Moderate to Unhealthy
Natural DisastersVolcanoes, TsunamisEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year278284 (varies by region)
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Hawaii offers a relatively stable climate year-round with moderate humidity and consistent temperatures, California's weather can vary dramatically depending on the region. Southern California is known for its sunny, warm climate, while the northern parts can experience cooler temperatures and higher rainfall. If you're moving to California, be prepared for a wider range of weather conditions, from the dry heat of the deserts to the snowy mountains. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right location in California that matches your weather preferences and prepare accordingly for the seasonal changes you'll experience.

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


If you're considering a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial aspects in Hawaii and California will impact your budget. This comparison will illuminate the economic differences, helping you make an informed decision for a smoother transition.

ComparisonHawaiiCalifornia
Avg. Household Income$92,458$91,551
Cost of Living Index165.7136.4
State Income Tax11.013.3
Avg. Property Tax0.280.74
Avg. Sales Tax4.448.56
Top 3 IndustriesTourism, Defense, AgricultureTechnology, Agriculture, Entertainment
AffluenceModerately affluentHighly affluent
PovertyLowMedium
HomelessnessHighVery High


While both Hawaii and California boast robust economies, Hawaii has a notably higher average household income but accompanies this with a significantly higher cost of living compared to California. The stark contrast in the Average Sales Tax rates between the two states reflects directly on day-to-day expenses, potentially affecting your budget differently depending on the state. Additionally, the primary industries highlight distinct employment and investment opportunities, with Hawaii focusing on Tourism and Agriculture, while California is a powerhouse in Technology and Entertainment. Understanding these differences can help you plan effectively for your financial future upon moving.

Hawaii vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Hawaii to California involves more than just packing boxes; it’s about transitioning into a new culture. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Hawaii & California, giving you an idea of what to expect in your new home.

HawaiiCalifornia
Political Make-upDemocraticDemocratic
Local PoliticsModerately liberal, strong Democratic control in urban areasLiberal, with Democratic stronghold in major cities
ReligionChristianity, Buddhism, ShintoChristianity, unaffiliated, other religions

While both Hawaii and California lean Democratic politically, you'll find that local politics can vary; California is well-known for its liberal policies especially in major urban centers like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Religion in Hawaii incorporates a rich mosaic including significant Buddhist and Shinto communities reflecting its cultural diversity, whereas California has a large population identifying as unaffiliated with any religion, reflecting its broad spectrum of beliefs and values. Understanding these nuances can help you acclimatize to your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Hawaii to California

Moving between states can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to education. To help you make an informed decision, we've created a comparison that highlights the key differences in educational opportunities between Hawaii and California. The purpose of this guide is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Hawaii and California, ensuring you choose the best fit for your family’s educational needs.

HawaiiCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu; Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu; Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu
University of California
Los Angeles; Stanford University
Stanford; University of California
Berkeley
Berkeley

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Manoa Elementary
Honolulu; Noelani Elementary
Honolulu; Maemae Elementary School
Honolulu
Montemalaga Elementary
Palos Verdes Estates; Westwood Charter Elementary
Los Angeles; Old Orchard Elementary
Valencia

Top 3 Middle Schools

Iolani School
Honolulu; Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus
Honolulu; Punahou School
Honolulu
Miller Middle School
San Jose; Egan Junior High School
Los Altos; Carmel Valley Middle School
San Diego

Top 3 High School Schools

Iolani School
Honolulu; Punahou School
Honolulu; Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus
Honolulu
Henry M. Gunn High School
Palo Alto; California Academy of Mathematics and Science
Carson; Troy High School
Fullerton

Top 3 private high schools

Iolani School
Honolulu; Punahou School
Honolulu; Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus
Honolulu
The Webb Schools
Claremont; Harvard-Westlake School
Studio City; Polytechnic School
Pasadena

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Le Jardin Academy
Kailua; Island Pacific Academy
Kapolei; Assets School
Honolulu
The Athenian School
Danville; The Thacher School
Ojai; Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
Santa Monica

Top 3 School Districts

Hawaii Department of Education (Statewide)Los Altos School District
Los Altos; San Marino Unified School District
San Marino; Palo Alto Unified School District
Palo Alto

When considering the educational landscape of Hawaii and California, it's essential to recognize the unique offerings each state provides. Hawaii, with its statewide education system, ensures a consistent experience across the islands but may offer less variety than California's diverse school districts. Notable institutions like Punahou School in Honolulu and Iolani School offer high-quality education comparable to esteemed schools in California such as Harvard-Westlake School and Polytechnic School. California's higher education options, including world-renowned universities like UCLA and Stanford, provide a wide array of opportunities for collegiate advancement. This comparison is not just about rankings but about finding the right cultural and educational fit for your family.

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