Best Maryland to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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MD to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state heralds an exhilarating chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. From the historic charm and blue crabs of Maryland, the Old Line State, to the sun-soaked beaches and iconic cities of California, the Golden State, you're about to embark on a journey that leaves familiar terrains for exciting new horizons. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a seamless transition to your next chapter.

Maryland iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Maryland to California Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
AT Movers9.64A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
AJ Moving Services LLC9.57AAuthorized For HHGContact
AB Secure Moving LLC.9.49NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Bulldog Movers9.43NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Maryland guide.

6 Best MD 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 10/17/2024)

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
AT Movers Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.64/10
based on 1,252+ data points

About AT Movers

AT Movers is a moving company based in Potomac, with business hours from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. They provide reliab...Read More >>

Services

  • Wrapping, stocking, and relocation
  • Assembling the uplift desks
  • The protection of the valuable frames and pictures

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3455533 / 1126253

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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 10/18/2024)

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
3
AJ Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.57/10
based on 549+ data points

About AJ Moving Services LLC

AJ Moving Services LLC, based in Frederick, MD, has been providing a broad range of moving solutions for both residential and commercial cli...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Move
  • Office Move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3866515 / 1414221

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved17,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
AB Secure Moving LLC. Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.49/10
based on 669+ data points

About AB Secure Moving LLC.

AB Secure Moving LLC is a professional moving company with over 10 years of experience in the moving industry. Based in Maryland, they serve...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3900650 / 1436879

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Bulldog Movers Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 587+ data points

About Bulldog Movers

Bulldog Movers, based in Rockville, Maryland, offers moving services to areas such as Germantown, Washington D.C., Gaithersburg, and Virgini...Read More >>

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking
  • Piano Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3482586 / 1143505

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (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 Maryland to California

Moving from one state to another can be a life-changing decision that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Maryland to California. By comparing Maryland's cons to California's pros and vice versa, we aim to offer clarity and insight into this significant life decision.

CONs
PROs
Maryland iconMaryland
  • Colder winters
  • Higher humidity
  • Less diverse landscapes
  • Smaller tech sector
California iconCalifornia
  • Sunny weather
  • Dryer climate
  • Varied geography
  • Technology hub
California iconCalifornia
  • High living costs
  • Earthquake risks
  • Water scarcity
  • Long commutes
Maryland iconMaryland
  • Affordable housing
  • Rich history
  • Accessible healthcare
  • Proximity to DC

Making the move from Maryland to California introduces you to a diverse landscape that ranges from the beautiful beaches of California to its towering forests. While Maryland offers a sense of history and proximity to Washington D.C., with sights like the National Portrait Gallery, California boasts innovative tech cities like San Jose and cultural hotspots such as San Francisco. The transition might be challenging due to the higher living costs and longer commutes in popular areas like Los Angeles, but the unique blend of urban life, technology, and natural beauty in California is unparalleled.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Maryland to California

When planning a move, understanding the local culture is essential, and cuisine plays a significant role in this. We’ve prepared a comparison focused on the local cuisine between Maryland and California to give you a taste of what to expect and how it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. This will help you better appreciate the food scene in your new home.

MarylandCalifornia

Most iconic local food item

Crab Cakes
Sourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Pit Beef
Tri-tip

Most popular street food item

Fish Tacos
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Avocado Toast
Smoothie Bowls

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Charleston
  • Woodberry Kitchen
  • Pappas Seafood
  • Chez Panisse
  • Tartine Bakery
  • n/naka

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
9

Foodie Scene

8
10

Vegan Friendly

7
10

In your journey from Maryland to California, you’ll find yourself transitioning from the rich flavors of crab cakes and pit beef to the fresh tastes of sourdough bread and tri-tip. While Maryland’s streets boast a variety of fish tacos, California takes pride in its wide range of taco offerings, truly making it a taco lover's paradise. California also shines in vegan selections, with smoothie bowls leading the charge alongside a very active foodie scene. Notably, California’s health and fitness consciousness is reflected in its cuisine, offering a wide variety of fresh, farm-to-table options. Key neighborhoods to explore include San Francisco’s Mission District for authentic Mexican cuisine and Los Angeles’ Venice for vibrant vegan dishes. Iconic restaurants like Chez Panisse in Berkeley emphasize California’s commitment to sustainable dining, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Maryland to California

Real estate is a crucial aspect of any move, comparing Maryland and California will provide a clear view of what to expect. This comparison centers around housing costs, architectural styles, and the lifestyle each state offers. Understanding these differences can significantly inform your relocation decision.

In comparing Maryland to California, it's apparent that both states offer unique living experiences influenced by their distinct real estate markets and cultural differences. California's higher housing costs reflect its expansive economy and desirable climate, attracting those willing to pay a premium for sunshine and vibrant urban centers. In contrast, Maryland's architecture is deeply rooted in America's colonial past, offering a sense of history alongside modern amenities. Despite the stark differences in home prices and monthly rent, each state caters to a lifestyle that reflects its regional character—whether it's the eco-conscious, view-oriented living in California or the historical, community-focused atmosphere in Maryland. Selecting between these states depends on one's preference for a particular lifestyle, climate, and economic opportunities.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Maryland to California

When planning a move from Maryland to California, it's crucial to understand how the weather differences between these two states will impact your daily life. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather variations, preparing you for what to expect and how to adapt to your new environment.

Summer icon
87°F/67°F

Maryland

85°F/60°F

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
43°F/29°F

Maryland

68°F/48°F

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44

Maryland

22 (varies by region)

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
20.6

Maryland

Varies greatly

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

California's weather offers more days of sunshine and generally milder winters compared to Maryland. However, humidity levels are lower, which might be a relief during the summer but could necessitate a humidifier in winter for comfort. Also notable are the natural disaster risks; while Maryland faces hurricanes and floods, California's predominant risks are earthquakes and wildfires. These differences emphasize the importance of preparing for a change in both daily weather and emergency planning when transitioning from Maryland to California.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, grasping how your expenses and financial landscape will shift is crucial. This guide provides a focused view on moving your finances from Maryland to California , helping you grasp the economic changes you'll encounter.

While the average household income in Maryland is higher than in California, the Golden State's cost of living and income taxes are also substantially higher, which could affect your financial well-being after the move. Notably, although California has a lower property tax rate, the overall expenses associated with property ownership can be deceiving due to the state's significantly higher property values. The industries dominating each state's economy also hint at potential job opportunities and economic environments you may encounter. Understanding these differences will prepare you for the financial realities of your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Maryland and California

As you prepare to move from Maryland to California, it's beneficial to understand the differences in the political and religious makeup of the residents between Maryland & California . This quick comparison aims to provide you with an insight into the communities you're moving from and to, covering aspects such as political leanings, local politics, and religious preferences. This snapshot will help you align your expectations with reality.

MarylandCalifornia

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate with urban areas leaning more liberalLiberal, especially in urban areas

Religion

Christianity is predominant, diverse religious communitiesChristianity is predominant, high diversity in religious beliefs

While both Maryland and California lean Democratic, California is known for its strong Democratic leaning, especially in urban areas where liberal ideologies predominate. This reflects not just in presidential elections but also in local politics and how policies are shaped around issues like climate change, healthcare, and civil rights. On the religious front, both states host diverse religious communities, though Christianity remains predominant. However, California stands out for its higher diversity in religious beliefs, including larger communities of non-religious individuals, reflecting its broader cultural diversity. This blend of political and religious dynamics contributes to the unique cultural tapestry that defines each state.

Education Guide When Moving from Maryland to California

Moving can be a significant life change, especially when it involves transitioning between states. When considering relocating from Maryland to California, one critical aspect to examine is the educational landscape. This comparison aims to provide insights into the differences between schools and education in Maryland and California, helping you make informed decisions for your family.

MarylandCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Towson University
University of California (Berkeley)
Stanford University
California State University (Fullerton)

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Fulton Elementary (Fulton)
Whitehall Elementary (Bowie)
Bannockburn Elementary (Bethesda)
Millikin Elementary (Santa Clara)
Mockingbird Elementary (Cupertino)
Pacific Elementary (Manhattan Beach)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Eastern Middle (Silver Spring)
Thomas W. Pyle Middle (Bethesda)
Herbert Hoover Middle (Potomac)
Henry M. Gunn Middle (Palo Alto)
The Preuss School UCSD (La Jolla)
Redwood Middle (Saratoga)

Top 3 High Schools

Walt Whitman High (Bethesda)
Winston Churchill High (Potomac)
Thomas S. Wootton High (Rockville)
Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto)
Palo Alto High (Palo Alto)
Torrey Pines High (San Diego)

Top 3 private high schools

Gilman School (Baltimore)
Holton-Arms School (Bethesda)
McDonogh School (Owings Mills)
Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Phillips Academy (Andover)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Friends School of Baltimore (Baltimore)
Sandy Spring Friends School (Sandy Spring)
Calvert School (Baltimore)
Polytechnic School (Pasadena)
The Harker School (San Jose)
Chadwick School (Palos Verdes Peninsula)

Top 3 School Districts

Montgomery County Public Schools
Howard County Public School System
Anne Arundel County Public Schools
San Mateo County Office of Education
Santa Clara County Office of Education
Los Angeles Unified School District

In both Maryland and California, the options for top-tier education span from public schools to exclusive private institutions. For example, Maryland's Howard County Public School System is consistently ranked among the top in the nation for academic achievement and teacher quality. Similarly, California's Palo Alto High School boasts impressive student outcomes, partly thanks to its proximity to Stanford University and Silicon Valley, enabling unique learning opportunities. Private education in California, represented by institutions like Harvard-Westlake School, provides rigorous academic programs that compete nationally. Meanwhile, Maryland's Gilman School and Holton-Arms School are noted for their comprehensive curriculums that ensure students' preparedness for higher education. Understanding these educational landscapes can significantly affect your decision when relocating, tailoring your choice to fit your family's priorities and expectations.

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