Moving from New Jersey to California?

6 Best NJ to CA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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NJ to CA Moving Specialists

Moving state to state marks the start of an exciting adventure and a significant life change. You’re leaving behind New Jersey, known for its vibrant shore and bustling cities, to embrace California, the Golden State, with its sprawling beaches, tech innovation, and diverse cultures. For such a pivotal journey, it’s crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers; that’s where we come in, offering you the best selection through an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure your move is smooth and stress-free.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to New Jersey guide.

6 Best New Jersey to California Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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 >>

top 3 san francisco 2024 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,688+ data points

Santa Monica, CA
Residential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3207734 Verify

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 >>

top santa ana 2024 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa ana 2023 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa monica 2022 pure movers santa monica image
#3
Big G Movers, INC Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,636+ data points

Metuchen, NJ
Local Residential Moving, East Coast Long Distance Moving, Office & Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2358159 Verify

About Big G Movers, INC

Located in Metuchen, Big G Movers is one of the top-rated hometown movers in New Jersey. This family-owned and operated business has a years...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in elizabeth 2022 big g movers inc image
#4
Cimply Labor, LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,172+ data points

Keyport, NJ
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2988167 Verify

About Cimply Labor, LLC

Cimply Labor, LLC is a moving company based in New Jersey that aims to make the moving process simple and easy for its customers. They offer...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in long branch 2022 cimply labor llc image
#5
All Brunswick Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 929+ data points

Dayton, NJ
Residential Moves, Corporate Relocation, International Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 866526 Verify

About All Brunswick Moving & Storage

All Brunswick Moving & Storage is a full-service moving company in Dayton that has been serving customers throughout the state of New Je...Read More >>

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#6
UMEX Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 752+ data points

Morristown, NJ
Residential moving, Commercial moving, Local moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 686881 Verify

About UMEX Moving & Storage

UMEX Moving & Storage services Morris, Hudson, Bergen, and Essex Counties with safe and efficient relocations. Its staff members are exp...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from New Jersey to California

Moving states can be a daunting yet exhilarating experience. This is particularly true when transitioning from New Jersey to California, offering a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Our comparison aims to honestly reflect the good and bad attributes of this relocation, directly contrasting New Jersey's drawbacks with California's benefits, and vice versa. Understanding these differing aspects can help you make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
New Jersey iconNew Jersey
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher property taxes
  • Dense population
  • Less outdoor activities
California iconCalifornia
  • Milder winters
  • Lower property taxes
  • More open spaces
  • Abundant outdoor activities
California iconCalifornia
  • Far from NYC
  • Higher living costs
  • Long travel times
  • Younger cities
New Jersey iconNew Jersey
  • Proximity to NYC
  • Lower living costs
  • Compact state
  • Richer history

Moving from New Jersey’s densely populated cities to California’s expansive open landscapes opens up a wealth of outdoor activities - from hiking the stunning trails of Yosemite National Park to enjoying the beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway. While you may miss the historical richness of cities like Trenton or the proximity to New York City, California offers its own unique culture. Cities like San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and vibrant neighborhood of Fisherman's Wharf, or Los Angeles, known for the Universal Studios Hollywood and an unparalleled entertainment scene, are bustling with activity and opportunities. Despite the higher cost of living in some Californian cities, the state's investment in public parks, diverse cuisines, and innovative industries makes it an attractive destination for many.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from New Jersey to California

Food is not just a necessity; it's a vibrant part of local culture and an essential aspect of what it's like to live in a specific area. With this in mind, we aim to enlighten you by comparing the local cuisine between New Jersey & California so you can better grasp the gastronomic scene of your new home.

New JerseyCalifornia

Most iconic local food item

Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese SandwichFish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Italian Hot DogTri-tip BBQ

Most popular street food item

Salt Water TaffyStreet Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Italian Seitan SandwichAvocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

    1. Carlo's Bakery
    2. Don's Deli
    3. Madison Bar & Grill
    1. The Cheesecake Factory
    2. In-N-Out Burger
    3. Spago

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

810

Vegan Friendly

710

When moving from New Jersey to California, you'll find the culinary landscape vastly different. In New Jersey, the comfort of a Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich from a local diner like Top's Diner in East Newark can start your day right. Meanwhile, California's penchant for health-conscious and vegan options means you can enjoy a fresh Avocado Toast at spots like Café Gratitude in Los Angeles. The vibrant food truck scene in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles unveils a world of flavors, from gourmet Street Tacos to innovative fusion dishes, embodying California’s diverse culinary ethos. Moreover, if you're keen on exploring high-profile dining options, California's iconic restaurants like Spago Beverly Hills offer a glimpse into the state's rich foodie scene.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from New Jersey to California

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market in both your current and future states is crucial. This comparison between New Jersey and California highlights key housing aspects, offering insights into cost, architecture, and lifestyle. By comparing these factors, you're better equipped to make an informed decision.

Moving from New Jersey to California, you'll notice not just a leap in median home prices and monthly rents, but also a distinct shift in the architectural landscape. California's affinity for Spanish Revival and modern architectures offers a refreshing change from the more traditional Colonial and Victorian styles predominant in New Jersey. Moreover, California's higher walkability and bikeability scores promise a more active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle, perfectly complementing the state's urban lifestyle rating. Notably, Californian real estate often boasts features like ocean views and solar panels, reflecting the state's environmental consciousness and beautiful landscapes, a contrast to New Jersey's emphasis on proximity to New York City and interior amenities.

Weather Considerations for Moving from New Jersey to California

When planning a move from New Jersey to California, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a comfortable transition. This comparison will highlight how the weather varies between New Jersey and California , essential for preparing for your new environment.

Summer icon
85/66

New Jersey

85/60

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
40/25

New Jersey

60/45

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

New Jersey

22 (varies widely)

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
23

New Jersey

Varies (mostly in mountains)

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from New Jersey to California, you'll notice significant changes, especially in winter temperatures, sunshine days, and natural disaster risks. California offers milder winters and more sunny days, contributing to an active outdoor lifestyle year-round. However, it's essential to prepare for California's specific challenges, such as higher UV indices leading to increased sun protection needs and varying air quality across the state, which can impact respiratory health. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more quickly to your new home.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding how your finances will be affected is crucial. Whether moving from New Jersey to California, it's important to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and general economic environment will compare to your current situation.

Moving from New Jersey to California, you'll face a higher cost of living index in California, principally due to housing costs. However, California's vast economy, anchored by technology, agriculture, and entertainment, offers diverse job opportunities. While New Jersey boasts a higher average household income and is considered highly affluent, California's affluence varies significantly by region. Be aware that despite its economic opportunities, California struggles with higher rates of poverty and homelessness in certain areas compared to New Jersey. Tax rates also differ; while New Jersey has higher property taxes, California's top income tax rate is among the highest in the country. These factors make financial planning essential for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between New Jersey and California

When contemplating a move from New Jersey to California, understanding the demographic landscape is crucial. This quick comparison aims to provide a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents between New Jersey & California, helping you grasp the social nuances that might influence your day-to-day life in these states.

New JerseyCalifornia

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate, with significant urban Democratic leanProgressive, especially in urban areas

Religion

Catholicism predominant, diverse religious communitiesLess religiously affiliated, diverse spiritual practices

While both New Jersey and California lean Democratic, the political climate in California is more distinctly progressive, particularly in urban regions like San Francisco and Los Angeles. This might affect local policies that influence various aspects of life, including environmental regulations, social justice initiatives, and economic policies. Religiously, New Jersey exhibits a more traditional bent with Catholicism being the predominant faith, whereas California's residents tend to be less religiously affiliated, reflecting a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices. These disparities hint at the broader cultural differences you might encounter, shaping your social interactions and community involvement.

Education Guide When Moving from New Jersey to California

Moving from New Jersey to California offers a unique opportunity to explore different educational landscapes. By comparing schools and education, you can better understand what the comparisons are between school options in New Jersey and California . This guide aims to smooth your transition, highlighting critical differences in educational offerings.

New JerseyCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Rutgers University
Princeton University
Montclair State University
University of California (Berkeley)
University of California (Los Angeles)
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Littlebrook Elementary School (Princeton)
Princeton Charter School (Princeton)
Riverside Elementary School (Princeton)
Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Westlake Elementary School (Santa Cruz)
Reed Elementary School (Tiburon)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Princeton Charter School (Princeton)
Thomas Grover Middle School (West Windsor)
Community Middle School (Plainsboro)
Henry E. Huntington Middle School (San Marino)
Miller Creek Middle School (San Rafael)
Rancho San Joaquin Middle School (Irvine)

Top 3 High Schools

High Technology High School (Lincroft)
Bergen County Academies (Hackensack)
Princeton High School (Princeton)
Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto)
California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)
Whitney High School (Cerritos)

Top 3 Private High Schools

The Lawrenceville School (Lawrenceville)
The Pingry School (Basking Ridge)
Delbarton School (Morristown)
Harvard-Westlake School (Studio City)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
The College Preparatory School (Oakland)

Top 3 Private K-12 Schools

The Pingry School (Basking Ridge)
Morristown-Beard School (Morristown)
Newark Academy (Livingston)
Harvard-Westlake School (Studio City)
The Thacher School (Ojai)
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)

Top 3 School Districts

Princeton Public Schools
Millburn Township Schools
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
Irvine Unified School District

When comparing the educational environments of New Jersey and California, notable differences arise, particularly in the opportunities and environments offered by top schools and districts. For instance, New Jersey boasts prestigious institutions like Rutgers University and Princeton University, which attract many local graduates. In contrast, California is home to world-renowned universities such as Stanford and the University of California campuses. Furthermore, the top high schools in California, such as Henry M. Gunn High School and the California Academy of Mathematics and Science, offer unique programs focusing on technology and sciences, reflecting California's status as a tech hub. Such differences underscore the importance of considering individual educational needs and goals when moving between these two diverse states.

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